Big Take New York’s MTA Chief on Trump’s Funding Threats
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Oct 27, 2025 Janno Lieber, CEO and Chair of New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority, leads America’s largest transit network. He shares insights on upcoming projects like the Second Avenue Subway expansion and the challenges of federal funding threats. Lieber discusses the positive impacts of congestion pricing on commute times and air quality, and the urgent need for upgrades to the MTA’s outdated signaling system. He also emphasizes financial strategies to stabilize the MTA, highlighting the importance of political coalitions to enhance public transit support.
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Modernization Is About Equity And Economy
- The MTA needs major investments in signals, railcars, elevators, and climate resilience to modernize a century-old system.
- Lieber argues these upgrades enable accessibility, reliability, and long-term economic benefits for riders and the city.
Local Funding Lowers Federal Risk
- About 80% of the MTA capital program is state and locally funded, reducing federal dependence.
- Lieber notes congestion-pricing revenue matched forecasts and can be bonded to fund projects like Second Avenue Subway.
Federal Hold Seen As Political And Temporary
- The DOT's hold on $18 billion cites new DEI-related recertification rules, which Lieber calls a political and temporary issue.
- He says contracts and construction continue and expects litigation and compliance to resolve funding questions.