WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), led by Secretary Sean P. Duffy, has launched a series of impactful initiatives this month to improve national infrastructure, enhance efficiency, and protect taxpayers. Among the key actions are the termination of a costly high-speed rail project, advancements in border infrastructure, modernization plans for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, leadership changes for the Penn Station reconstruction, and the repeal of an onerous greenhouse gas rule.
On April 14, USDOT announced the termination of a $63.9 million federal grant for Amtrak’s involvement in the Texas High-Speed Rail Corridor project. Initially proposed as a privately funded initiative, the project suffered skyrocketing costs, with estimates exceeding $40 billion. Highlighting fiscal responsibility, Secretary Duffy stated, “Underwriting this project is a waste of taxpayer funds and a distraction from Amtrak’s core mission of improving its existing subpar services.” The decision allows Amtrak to refocus on addressing operational deficits and enhancing current services.
The following day, the department finalized a $150 million federal grant to construct a new state-of-the-art Port of Entry in the San Diego-Baja California border region at Otay Mesa. This project will boost border security, ease commercial congestion, and improve cross-border trade by supporting over 3,600 trucks daily. Secretary Duffy criticized previous delays, emphasizing the administration’s focus on efficiency and removing unnecessary environmental requirements, saying, “We moved to finalize this deal so we can help protect our Southern border and crack down on drug trafficking.”
USDOT also announced on April 15 that the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) will undergo a long-term revitalization under a partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The agreement, spanning 10 years and spearheaded by Brig. Gen. John Lloyd and USMMA Superintendent VADM Joanna Nunan, prioritizes modernizing facilities at the academy’s Kings Point campus. “Our mariners are critical to President Trump’s agenda to make American shipbuilding great again,” said Secretary Duffy.
The department has shifted leadership for the Penn Station reconstruction in New York City, placing Amtrak at the helm while reducing a related federal grant by $120 million. Secretary Duffy criticized the MTA’s inefficiencies, stating, “New York City deserves a Penn Station that reflects America’s greatness.” USDOT plans to integrate a public-private partnership model to expedite the project and minimize taxpayer risk.
Finally, on April 18, USDOT repealed a greenhouse gas emissions rule that had been criticized for diverting resources from critical highway projects. Secretary Duffy dubbed the rule “ideologically driven” and unnecessary, reaffirming his commitment to refocusing on infrastructure priorities. Industry leaders praised the decision, citing reduced regulatory burdens and faster project completion as significant benefits.
These decisive actions exemplify USDOT’s efforts to restore accountability, invest in critical infrastructure, and foster progress while safeguarding public funds. Looking ahead, the department’s initiatives aim to support economic growth, improve transportation systems, and enhance security across the nation.
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