UPDATE: Significant progress has been announced today in the ambitious overhaul of Penn Station, with transit expert Andy Byford, known as ‘Train Daddy’, leading the charge alongside federal officials. The announcement marks crucial milestones in transforming the aging transportation hub into a “world-class” facility, as the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) confirms a groundbreaking set for 2027.
During a press event earlier today, USDOT Secretary Sean Duffy joined Byford, who now serves as a special advisor to Amtrak, to unveil the arrival of three pivotal milestones. These include the initiation of the search for a master developer tasked with creating a modernized passenger concourse and reworking the train shed infrastructure, which is vital for the station’s long-term vision.
The solicitation for a master developer commenced today, with Amtrak and the federal government set to shortlist applications for formal proposals by spring 2026. Byford emphasized the project’s importance, stating, “This will be one of the biggest and most significant construction projects in U.S. history.” The selected developer will be responsible for revitalizing the 115-year-old station, which serves over 12 million passengers annually.
Duffy highlighted that under the current administration, the USDOT is “cutting through the red tape” to adhere to an ambitious timeline, aiming to establish the station as a remarkable symbol of American infrastructure. He expressed confidence in collaborating with top-tier partners to achieve this vision.
In addition to the developer’s search, officials announced the engagement of several consulting firms. Legal advisor Hunton Andrews Kurth, LLP, financial consultant KPMG, and environmental experts AKRF will assist in structuring this public-private partnership. A study is also underway to accommodate projected passenger service growth in the area.
This announcement follows a tumultuous week for the MTA amid ongoing criticism regarding a three-year delay in the Penn Station Access project in the Bronx. Local representatives, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ritchie Torres, have accused Amtrak of hindering progress, complicating access for Bronx residents hoping to reach Midtown more efficiently.
Amtrak has already invested approximately $140 million in the access project, asserting its commitment to ensuring taxpayer investments yield beneficial results for all stakeholders involved. The agency has stated that it is actively collaborating with the MTA to address delays and expedite project completion.
MTA Chair Janno Lieber reiterated the urgency of the access project, emphasizing the need for improved transportation options for Bronx residents. “We shouldn’t be focused on the disputes,” he said. “What we should be focused on is whether Amtrak is going to agree to let us start service in 2027.”
As developments unfold, all eyes remain on the Penn Station renovation, a crucial project that promises to reshape New York City’s transit landscape for generations to come. Stay tuned for further updates as this story progresses.
