Does anyone know the details of why the Hell Gate bridge was touted as a break-through in efficiently and directly connecting the South/Mid-Atlantic states and New England? It runs between Manhattan (Ward's Island) and Long Island (Astoria, Queens). Basically, it connects two islands in NY. Amtrak route that came up from Florida / Jersey already ran into Manhattan, and from there it's a straight shot up to New England. So what did this bridge change, given trains going over the Hell Gate bridge do the same thing, except with a detour into Queens?
Thanks.