Key facts
- President Donald Trump is pushing an $8 billion plan to overhaul Penn Station.
- Democrats are concerned about the project's total cost and who will ultimately pay for it.
- There is apprehension that Trump may seek to name the station after himself.
- Governor Kathy Hochul supports the plan if funded federally.
- Developers Halmar and Skanska have been selected to lead the project with Amtrak.
President Donald Trump's initiative to overhaul Penn Station faces significant skepticism from New York Democrats, who are uneasy about the project's financial implications and potential naming rights. Senator Liz Krueger likened the situation to being asked to approve an unaffordable dress, highlighting concerns over the unknown costs and who will ultimately bear the financial burden.
For decades, plans to modernize Penn Station have faltered. Trump's administration is now proposing a six-year, $8 billion plan aimed at creating a 'historic' station, with renderings showcasing a grand design. However, Democrats suspect a hidden cost and worry about New Yorkers being responsible for the expense. A prominent concern is that Trump might seek to have the station named after himself, a prospect opposed by figures like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Despite these reservations, some Democrats, including Governor Kathy Hochul, have expressed support for the project, contingent on full federal funding. Hochul has backed Amtrak's leadership of the project, even as it superseded the state's Metropolitan Transportation Authority's own plans. The Trump administration, through a spokesperson, has accused Democrats of 'Trump Derangement Syndrome' for opposing a project they previously supported.
Rep. Jerry Nadler has characterized Trump's involvement as a 'hostile takeover,' while Assemblymember Tony Simone cited Trump's history as a 'corrupt developer' as a reason for apprehension. However, Simone indicated he would credit Trump if Congress funded the project.
The project's financial structure remains unclear, with questions about the federal government's contribution versus the burden on New York taxpayers and commuters. The plan also involves a payment to Jim Dolan, owner of Madison Square Garden, to facilitate design changes that include removing a theater from the Garden complex. Project proponents argue that cost details are still being finalized as the design is not yet complete.
Amtrak official Andy Byford acknowledged that not all answers are available yet but stated the team is being transparent. The development team is actively engaging with local officials and stakeholders, including meetings with West Side Democrats and Governor Hochul's administration.