“This newly announced MOU between Amtrak, Empire State Development and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is incredibly welcome as it allows this universally supported, much-anticipated mass transit project to move forward without further delay.

“Amtrak’s willingness to negotiate with the MTA will put the East Bronx Metro-North expansion back on schedule and bring us one step closer to expanded commuter rail options in the communities that need them the most. This agreement would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of my borough’s partners in elected office, including Governor Andrew Cuomo and Senator Charles Schumer, as well as the thousands of Bronx residents and commuters across the region who spoke up in recent months to demand delays cease and negotiations resume.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue the planning process for the East Bronx Metro-North expansion and bring this project back on track,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.