New York to Fund Study of West-of-Hudson Commuter Rail, Bus Links

The review will examine rail, bus and ferry connections in four counties amid longstanding complaints about limited transit options and lengthy commutes.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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New York state will fund a study to explore ways to improve commuter rail service and other transit options on the west side of the Hudson River. The study, to be carried out by the Department of Transportation and a consulting firm, will focus on Orange, Rockland, Sullivan and Ulster counties, looking at connections from those counties to New York City and surrounding areas. The goal is to address significant transit issues and enhance rider experiences in under-served communities west of the Hudson River.

Why it matters

Communities west of the Hudson have seen population booms in recent decades, but that growth has not translated to improved public transit in the area. Many residents are forced to commute by car to rail stations on the east side of the river, leading to lengthy commutes and roadway congestion. This study aims to identify solutions to improve transit connectivity and reduce travel times for residents in the region.

The details

The study will analyze existing transit services in the mid and lower Hudson Valley, determine traveler demand levels, and gather feedback from riders, transit operators, community organizations and the public. It will also look at ways to increase transit options to the New York City metropolitan area, expand connections to existing rail lines and ferries, and reduce travel times and roadway congestion. An advisory committee of community leaders from the study area will provide guidance and input throughout the process.

  • The study will be funded through the state's 2026 budget.
  • The first phase of the study will begin with surveys of riders in Ulster and Orange counties about their commutes to New York City.

The players

New York State Department of Transportation

The state agency that will oversee the study and work with a consulting firm to carry it out.

ICF International

The consulting company that will partner with the Department of Transportation on the study.

U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan

The congressman who announced the study funding along with Governor Kathy Hochul. Ryan will chair an advisory committee of community leaders to provide guidance and input.

Gov. Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York who announced the funding for the study, which aims to address longstanding transit issues in the Hudson Valley region.

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What they’re saying

“For far too long, residents west of the Hudson have been stuck with exhausting commutes into New York City, unreliable transit options, and a transportation system that simply hasn't kept up with the needs of our growing communities. This is about taking action to ensure our region finally gets the attention and investment it deserves.”

— U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan (Times Union)

“We know there are gaps in the region's transportation infrastructure. With this study, we're planning to document what these gaps are, the best methods to fix them, and provide a clear roadmap on how to deliver transportation solutions for Hudson Valley residents.”

— Gov. Kathy Hochul (Times Union)

What’s next

The first phase of the study will analyze existing transit services and gather feedback from riders and community stakeholders. An advisory committee led by Rep. Pat Ryan will provide guidance throughout the study process.

The takeaway

This study represents a significant investment by New York state to address the longstanding transportation challenges faced by communities west of the Hudson River. By identifying gaps in the region's transit infrastructure and exploring solutions to improve connectivity and reduce commute times, the state aims to better serve the needs of a growing population in the Hudson Valley.