Trump Slams Gateway as ‘Financially Catastrophic,’ Vows Federal Government Won’t Pay a Single Dollar in Cost Overruns
President Donald Trump launched a sharp attack on the Gateway rail project in a lengthy Truth Social post, warning that the federal government will not pay for any cost overruns tied to the massive infrastructure effort linking New York and New Jersey.
Trump described Gateway as a potential “boondoggle,” arguing that it is likely to exceed its projected budget by billions of dollars. He compared it to California’s troubled high-speed rail project, which he has frequently criticized for running far over budget and behind schedule.
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“I am opposed to the future boondoggle known as ‘Gateway,’” Trump wrote, claiming the project could become “financially catastrophic for the region” unless strict oversight and proper planning are implemented immediately.
The president made clear that while the federal government is willing to meet with state and local officials to ensure fiscal discipline, it will not assume responsibility for additional costs. “Under no circumstances will the Federal Government be responsible for ANY COST OVERRUNS — NOT ONE DOLLAR!” he wrote.
The Gateway Program is designed to modernize aging rail infrastructure along the Northeast Corridor, including new tunnels under the Hudson River and upgrades to tracks and bridges that serve hundreds of thousands of daily commuters.
Supporters of the project have long argued it is critical to preventing service disruptions and boosting economic stability in the region. However, Trump’s comments signal potential tension between the White House and regional leaders over how the project is funded and managed.
In the same post, Trump also addressed speculation that Penn Station could be renamed “Trump Station.” He dismissed the idea, saying it was suggested by certain politicians and construction union leaders — not by him — and labeled reports about it “fake news.”
The president’s remarks underscore his administration’s broader emphasis on limiting federal exposure to infrastructure cost overruns, particularly on large-scale transit projects in major Democratic-led states.
With planning and funding negotiations ongoing, Trump’s public opposition adds a new layer of uncertainty to one of the nation’s most significant transportation initiatives.
Donald Trump via Truth Social
