President Trump’s Department of Transportation (USDOT) has blocked the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) plans for a revamped Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, instead deciding to lead the revitalization effort with federally backed Amtrak rail system. This move comes after the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) rejected the MTA’s plans on April 17.
The decision likely means that the MTA’s multi-billion-dollar reconstruction concepts will be scrapped. The federal takeover is expected to save taxpayers $120 million, according to USDOT Secretary Sean Duffy.
New York City Governor Kathy Hochul had previously requested funding for the project, which she claims will cost $7 billion. She praised President Trump and Secretary Duffy for taking on the sole responsibility of delivering the new station, saying it’s a major victory for New Yorkers and will save taxpayers an additional $1.3 billion.
However, commuter advocacy groups are condemning the move, citing concerns over the quality of train service rather than politics. The Riders Alliance said that the secretary is “chasing clout” and not prioritizing public transit riders’ needs.
The aging Penn Station, which first opened in 1910, requires expansion to increase train capacity. Multiple transit agencies converge at the station, making it a critical hub for transportation in the region.
Source: https://www.amny.com/nyc-transit/trump-administration-mta-penn-station-redesign