Feds Take Control Of Penn Station Rebuild, USDOT Chief Says

NEW YORK CITY — U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on Thursday that the Trump administration would take over the Penn Station renovation project from the MTA.

Amtrak, backed by USDOT, will now spearhead the remainder of the renovation project. Federal officials said that the move would save taxpayers $120 million by putting Amtrak in charge.

“President Trump has made it clear: the days of reckless spending and blank checks are over,” Duffy said in a statement. “New York City deserves a Penn Station that reflects America’s greatness and is safe and clean. The MTA’s history of inefficiency, waste, and mismanagement also meant that a new approach is needed. By putting taxpayers first, we’re ensuring every dollar is spent wisely to create a transit hub all Americans can take pride in.”

The Trump administration has a say over the station because it is owned by Amtrak, a corporation controlled by the federal government, according to the New York Times.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said in a statement:

“Governor Kathy Hochul has prioritized the reconstruction of Penn Station for years, and we’re glad the federal government is focusing on it now. Our 33rd Street Concourse project was the first major improvement to Penn Station in decades – and we finished it on time and under budget," he said." Over a hundred million MTA customers – two-thirds of the facility’s total ridership – use Penn Station every year. As the major leaseholder in the station, we expect to participate in the administration’s and Amtrak’s efforts to ensure future plans meet the needs of everyone who uses it.”

It is not known at this time what the Trump administration's plans are for the remainder of the renovation project, or it supports one of the publicized proposals, which could include expanding the station.

This is a breaking news story. This post may be updated.