Trump Administration Threatens MTA Funding Over Subway Safety Data

The MTA faces a March 31 deadline to provide detailed crime and safety data as federal officials question the use of funds and demand accountability.

The US Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Sean Duffy, has demanded the MTA submit comprehensive data on subway crime and safety measures by March 31, 2025.
Failure to comply could result in the withholding or redirection of federal funding, with the MTA relying on $14 billion for its next five-year capital plan.
While overall transit crime has dropped 27% in 2025 compared to 2024, felony assaults remain 56% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019, fueling safety concerns.
Federal demands follow high-profile violent incidents, including a December 2024 arson attack, and ongoing political tensions between President Trump and Governor Kathy Hochul over congestion pricing and infrastructure projects.
Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams have implemented measures like deploying National Guard troops and NYPD officers to address subway safety and improve public confidence.