Trump's Terms Leaders of Gateway train tunnel project sue Trump administration over withheld money
Feb 4, 2026
Stephen Nessen, WNYC reporter who filed the on-the-ground Gateway tunnel report. He walks through the halted $16B funding, the Sandy-damaged Hudson tunnel history, the lawsuit seeking $205M, and the stakes for local workers and construction costs. Short, clear scenes of politics, legal action, and looming job losses.
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Federal Pause Threatens Gateway Progress
- The Trump administration suspended federal funds for the Gateway tunnel project, imperiling a major New York–New Jersey infrastructure build.
- The pause follows a White House review of DEI policies and has halted congressionally approved payments since October.
Schumer Calls Project Terminated
- Senator Chuck Schumer described the funding halt as effectively terminating the project and blamed the president.
- Schumer had helped secure about 70% federal support with President Biden before the suspension.
DEI Review And Political Blame
- The administration framed the funding pause as tied to a review of diversity, equity and inclusion policies at federally funded projects.
- White House communications later cast blame on Democrats and immigration negotiation standoffs for the delay.