MTA chair rejects Amtrak's Penn Station partnership offer

MTA Chair Janno Lieber wrote to Amtrak adviser Andy Byford on Monday, turning down an offer for the transit agency to join the Trump administration’s Penn Station redevelopment as a "fully involved" partner. Lieber said the federal oversight of the project appears "bizarre" and raises concerns about potential impropriety.

Lieber highlighted that the Long Island Rail Road and MTA subways serve two-thirds of Penn Station’s daily riders and that the LIRR holds a prepaid lease extending to 2186, which grants the MTA approval rights for any construction affecting the northern half of the station. He warned that alterations could burden train operations or affect the structural integrity of the leasehold.

Amtrak, which assumed oversight after President Trump removed the MTA from the role last year, has selected a "master developer" to manage the work. The proposed design includes a new entrance on Eighth Avenue, additional natural light, higher ceilings, and bronze and stone detailing. Byford asserted the plan would not impact the Seventh Avenue entrance and 33rd Street concourse added under Lieber’s tenure.

"We are committed to improving the entirety of Penn Station for New Yorkers, and it's unfortunate MTA does not seem to share that approach," Amtrak spokesperson Jason Abrams said, adding that the agency will keep the invitation open for collaboration.

Lieber questioned the lack of an official cost estimate or funding source, the potential benefit to Madison Square Garden owner James Dolan, and the selection of construction firm Halmar, noting the firm’s executives have close ties to the Trump administration. He also asked what would happen if the administration’s interest wanes.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has indicated federal funding and loans could total $7-8 billion, and Amtrak aims to begin construction by the end of 2027, pending resolution of funding and partnership agreements.