The MTA is looking to Washington for a lifeline as Democrats prepare to take control of Congress. MTA leaders released a clear wish list on Friday, asking the new majority to shield the city’s transit system from federal tariffs and funding cuts. With the Trump administration changing rules that hurt New York projects, the agency sees a chance to reverse course under new leadership.
On Thursday, the WNYC radio segment On the Way featured MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber discussing the stakes directly. He highlighted the potential for better support given the political makeup of the incoming Congress. “Obviously, having a Democratic Congress led by two New Yorkers … we are hopeful that we can do much, much better than that historical short-changing,” Lieber said, according to amNewYork.
The Federal Funding Threat
The agency argues that current federal rules put riders at risk. A memo released by the MTA warns that failing to include advanced appropriations in the next bill extension creates a massive financial hole. The report states that cutting 10% of annual federal formula funding would amount to a $265 million hit in Fiscal Year 2027.
“Cutting 10% of our annual federal formula funding would have a dramatic impact for riders across the network,” the memo reads. The MTA specifically wants Congress to exempt new train and bus components from tariffs on foreign imports. They also seek increased security funding and an end to federal rules that punish local transit projects.
A Call for Legislative Action
Leadership believes the recent election results signal a shift in voter priorities. The agency’s memo notes that voters are unhappy with current federal policies affecting urban areas. “Elections swing on more than just a few key issues, but voters have made themselves clear: they’re fed up with the federal government’s assault on cities,” the memo reads.
The message to the new Congress is direct regarding economic pressures. “They’re tired of tariffs that put a tax on everything. And they are ready for the next Congress to make real progress for mass transit,” the statement continues. With Senator Chuck Schumer poised to lead the Senate and Hakeem Jeffries likely to become Speaker, the MTA expects a sympathetic hearing in the Capitol.
Local Momentum for Safety
While the MTA fights for federal dollars, Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration is pushing forward with local safety measures. On Tuesday, over one million New Yorkers voted for Proposition 3, a ballot measure designed to speed up bike lane and street safety projects. The measure passed with nearly 66% of the vote.
Advocates see this as a mandate for the mayor’s office to act quickly. Ben Furnas, executive director of Transportation Alternatives, noted the strong public support for expedited safety work.
Former DOT official Jon Orcott, now at Bike New York, called the result a clear signal for the administration. This local momentum complements the MTA’s push for federal stability.
This is opinion and commentary from the RapForMayor team.
