Federal Judge Reverses Trump Freeze on $16 Billion Gateway Tunnel Project
Reports suggest president wanted landmarks renamed after him in exchange for continued funding
The ruling comes amid reports that the president sought to have major travel landmarks—including Dulles Airport and Penn Station—renamed in his honor as a condition for continued federal investment.
The Gateway Project includes construction of a new commuter rail tunnel and repairs to a century-old existing tunnel used by more than 200,000 travelers and 425 trains daily. The aging infrastructure is considered critical to the Northeast Corridor.
Analysis
Why This Matters
The Gateway Project is one of the most significant infrastructure investments in the country, and delays could have cascading effects on Northeast transportation.
Background
The existing tunnel, damaged during Hurricane Sandy, is over 100 years old and operates at or beyond capacity. Failure would cripple East Coast rail traffic.
What to Watch
Whether the administration appeals the ruling and the ultimate fate of the naming requests.