New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie scrapped the Hudson River tunnel...

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie scrapped the Hudson River tunnel project because he feared cost overruns. (Jan. 13, 2011) Credit: AP

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey paid $95.5 million to lease land for the Hudson River tunnel project a week before Gov. Chris Christie froze it.

The agency told The Record newspaper it signed a contract for the site in 2009. The agency said breaking the deal could have brought a possible lawsuit and substantial losses.

The 2-acre tract is a mostly vacant lot on 12th Avenue at 30th Street along New York City’s waterfront. It is owned by an investment group that includes Joseph Rose.

Rose was a top official in the administration of former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Christie scrapped the project because he feared cost overruns.

The Port Authority says it has been approached by several developers for use of the land.

Woman struck by car dies ... William Floyd Day ... After 47 years, affordable housing Credit: Newsday

Hochul to sign Aid in Dying bill ... Woman struck by car dies ... MTA plans fare, toll hikes ... Let's Go: Williamsburg winter village

Woman struck by car dies ... William Floyd Day ... After 47 years, affordable housing Credit: Newsday

Hochul to sign Aid in Dying bill ... Woman struck by car dies ... MTA plans fare, toll hikes ... Let's Go: Williamsburg winter village

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