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Funding · Infrastructure · Lawsuit · MTA
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, demanding the release of nearly $60 million in federal funds earmarked for the Second Avenue subway extension in New York City.
The suit, lodged in the U.S. Court of Claims, argues that the administration's withholding of these funds since last fall is illegal and jeopardizes a crucial infrastructure project. This legal action follows a recent federal appellate court ruling that ordered the administration to unfreeze $16 billion for the Gateway Tunnel project, a precedent that strengthens New York's position.
Governor Kathy Hochul stated the lawsuit aims to keep the subway extension "on schedule and on budget," criticizing the administration for repeatedly halting committed infrastructure funding. The project, first conceived in the 1920s, is designed to improve subway access for approximately 100,000 daily passengers by extending the Q-train line.
While the White House and Department of Transportation have not commented, former budget adviser Russell Vought previously indicated the funds were suspended over concerns regarding "unconstitutional DEI principles." Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the economic importance of these projects, asserting they are not "political bargaining chips."
