August 29, 2025
Instead of being a point of pride, Washington’s Union Station has fallen into disrepair. By reclaiming station management, we will help make this city safe and beautiful at a fraction of the cost.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy on why the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is taking control of Union Station in D.C., which Amtrak began managing last year.
Why It Matters: While the Department of Transportation has owned Union Station since the early 1980s, its control has been limited due to lease agreements and contracts. The station is currently overseen by nonprofit Union Station Redevelopment Corporation, with Amtrak managing operations. Sec. Duffey made the takeover announcement alongside Amtrak President Roger Harris. “USDOT anticipates that reinvestment and improved security will dramatically improve the income from the station, which should unlock opportunities for private investment as part of potential expansion of the station,” USDOT said in a press release. Formal action is expected in September.
Bipartisan Support: Democratic D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser voiced support for the DOT’s move. “If it’s about what Union Station needs for its total transformation, that would be an amazing initiative for the federal government to take on. It has suffered from not being able to get the money that it needs for the renovation.”
More Context: Last week, President Trump said he would be asking Congress for $2 billion to beautify D.C.
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by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
