Trump Administration Freezes $18-B for NYC Infrastructure Projects

White House budget director Russ Vought said Wednesday he is freezing roughly $18 billion in funding for New York City’s Hudson Tunnel and Second Avenue subway projects, Josh Boak reported for the Associated Press (AP).

The freeze was allegedly also tied to the government shutdown that began at midnight. (Photo: Metropolitan Transportation Authority - MTA Facebook)

Vought posted on X that the hold was imposed because the administration believes the funding was “based on unconstitutional DEI principles.” DEI stands for diversity, equity and inclusion.

But an administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the freeze was also tied to the government shutdown that began at midnight. Transportation Department staff responsible for reimbursing contractors on the projects have been furloughed, leaving the money on hold.