Originally built in the early 1900s, the 1.9m-high structures line both sides of the tunnel, providing critical emergency egress for passengers.
In 2012, Superstorm Sandy inundated two tunnel tubes with saltwater, nearly submerging the bench walls and it accelerated corrosion.
Working in the tight confines of the tunnel, Skanska-EJ ERT Joint Venture continues to refine its demolition techniques. Amtrak says these lessons will carry forward as work begins in the Line 1 tunnel tube next year.
Last week, the New York City Fire Department, New York Police Department and the project team carried out a joint emergency preparedness review, assessing site conditions, access points, evacuation routes, and potential hazards.
The rehabilitation project began in May this year and is due to be completed in 2028.
Opened in 1910, the East River Tunnel consists of four tubes connecting New York City to Long Island and New England, and is used by Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road, and New Jersey Transit trains.
