Christie Says He Won’t Repay U.S. $271 Million in Tunnel Funds
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New Jersey Governor Chris Christie said he won’t return $271 million in federal funds for a canceled commuter-rail tunnel to New York, a decision that may cost the state $52,000 a week in interest.
The Federal Transit Administration began adding the fee to the bill April 29, after Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood rejected a state appeal to keep the money, according to a person familiar with the details who wasn’t authorized to speak on the record. At the 1 percent government rate on overdue debt, the cost could add up to $2.71 million a year.