Story perspectives

Trump Administration Halts NYC Busway, Threatens Funding

10/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration ordered New York City to halt the 34th Street busway project due to concerns about truck access and emergency routes.
Federal Highway Administration Administrator Sean McMaster demanded the pause and warned it could jeopardize federal funding for other projects.
The order follows an $18 billion New York infrastructure funding freeze tied to diversity and inclusion issues, with MTA Chair Janno Lieber criticizing federal interference.

History

Historical Context

New York City's fiscal crisis in 1975 resulted in a $1.5 billion budget deficit, prompting federal intervention and austerity measures under President Gerald Ford. This historical backdrop reflects ongoing tensions between federal oversight and local governance, as seen in the Trump administration's recent decision to halt the 34th Street busway project, impacting infrastructure development in the city.

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Story summary

The Trump administration ordered New York City to halt the 34th Street busway project due to concerns about truck access and emergency routes.
Federal Highway Administration Administrator Sean McMaster demanded the pause and warned it could jeopardize federal funding for other projects.
The order follows an $18 billion New York infrastructure funding freeze tied to diversity and inclusion issues, with MTA Chair Janno Lieber criticizing federal interference.

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