DOT Takes Over Management of Union Station
The Department of Transport (DOT) is set to manage Washington, DC’s Union Station in a bid to enhance infrastructure and address crime issues, Transport Secretary Shawn Duffy announced on Wednesday.
In partnership with Amtrak, DOT aims to revamp the aging station, which has seen better days over the last four decades. As noted in a DOT press release, this initiative forms part of a broader strategy by President Trump’s administration to tackle crime and homelessness in Washington, DC.
“The President has been quite clear about his vision for Union Station,” Duffy remarked. “He wants to restore its beauty and elevate travel in America. Our nation’s capital should truly reflect greatness, and we are working toward that goal.”
Interestingly, a press release pointed out that over the past 40 years, various agreements have led to a decline in DOT’s control over the station. The Union Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC) previously managed operations, but a lack of revenue has hindered maintenance efforts.
Amtrak recently secured a sublease from USRC, allowing them to redirect retail earnings towards necessary infrastructure upgrades. The press release emphasized that under Trump and Duffy’s leadership, there will be a reinvestment in the station, taking advantage of its commercial opportunities while directly managing the operations. The upgrades will address pressing needs, like security, lighting, and elevator improvements, as well as enhancing the passenger experience.
The administration has been active in making landmark stations safer by deploying national security personnel to protect residents. Recently, officials like Vice President J.D. Hegses and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses visited Union Station to review advancements in crime reduction strategies.
During their visit, it was highlighted that Washington faces a significant crime challenge, with high murder rates that need urgent attention. Following the federal crack-down initiated on August 7, law enforcement made 1,094 arrests and recovered 115 illegal firearms. As of now, it’s reported that only one murder has taken place since these intensified efforts began.
