Trump Administration Takes Control of Washington, D.C.’s Union Station
On August 27, 2025, President Donald Trump’s administration announced that it would take over management of Washington’s historic Union Station from Amtrak. The move aims to begin a comprehensive renovation process starting in 2027, with the project expected to take about four to five years. The decision was made by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during a public event at the station, coinciding with the launch of the new high-speed Acela trains.
In his statement, Secretary Duffy emphasized the need to restore Union Station’s former glory. He said the station has “fallen into disrepair” and should be a point of pride for the nation’s capital. Duffy also noted that federal management would help bring in more shops, restaurants, and revenue, which would fund further upgrades. He added, “We want Union Station to be beautiful again, safe again, and a reflection of the greatness of Washington.”
Duffy stated that federal management would focus on improving the station’s infrastructure, safety, and appearance. Key updates include a new roof, modernized restrooms, better lighting, and enhanced security measures. The renovation aims to make the station more attractive and functional for travelers and visitors alike, while also reducing homelessness and crime in the area.
Since the announcement, federal law enforcement and National Guard troops have stepped up patrols around Penn Station to enhance security. This comes after recent efforts by the Trump administration to take more control over parts of Washington, including law enforcement and immigration agencies. The next step in the project is to start looking for a developer in October, with a developer expected to be selected by May 2026. Additionally, the transportation department has provided a $43 million grant to Amtrak to support the early engineering work on this project.
Union Station has a long history of ups and downs, including a major renovation in the early 1980s after severe damage and a renovation during Reagan’s presidency. Despite recent challenges, the station is now poised for upgrades with federal support aimed at restoring its historic significance and improving safety and services.