NEW YORK (AP) — Discussions have emerged about the possibility of renaming one of New York City's most iconic yet often criticized landmarks, Penn Station, after President Donald Trump. This conversation arose in light of the Republican administration's recent initiative to redesign the underground transit hub, which is noted as the busiest station in the western hemisphere, with an estimated cost of $8 billion.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy sent a letter to leading U.S. Senators seeking congressional approval for funding pertinent to the renovation and other significant transportation efforts, though he did not specify what the new name for the station would be. However, he has hinted at his preference for Trump’s name to be displayed at the station, previously commenting, “I think that has a nice ring to it,” implying a potential name of "Trump Station."
Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for Trump, responded positively when asked about the naming idea, stating, “Why not?” This reflects Trump's broader attempts to enhance his legacy through various public works projects, which have included a new White House ballroom and a proposed triumphal arch, among others. Recently, Palm Beach International Airport was renamed as the President Donald J. Trump International Airport, adding to the discussion surrounding the Trump brand.
Trump himself has acknowledged that the concept of renaming Penn Station was brought up during conversations with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who hails from New York. Trump clarified that he did not propose the idea in exchange for unfreezing federal funds for the Gateway Project, a significant rail tunnel under the Hudson River connecting New York and New Jersey. He emphasized that the renaming suggestion originated from other politicians and construction union leaders, stating, “I LOVE Pennsylvania, but it is a direct competitor to New York.”
Penn Station, which opened in 1910 and was designed in the Beaux Arts style, underwent significant changes when it was demolished in 1963 to make way for Madison Square Garden. As a result, commuters now navigate cramped pathways and crowded train platforms in what has been dubbed a less-than-inviting environment. Recent design proposals aim to restore the station's grandeur, bringing back classical styles, stone façades, and expansive concourses with high ceilings. Notably, some renderings included a Trump seal and name on an interior wall.
Opposition to the renaming proposal has surfaced, particularly from U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler, a Manhattan Democrat. He criticized Duffy’s letter as indicative of a “hostile takeover” of Penn Station by the Trump administration, arguing that it seeks to disrupt local authority control. Nadler stated, “New York taxpayers and transit riders must not be forced to foot the bill for a Trump vanity project.”
Furthermore, local transit advocacy group Riders Alliance referred to the idea of renaming Penn Station as “another huge red flag,” expressing concerns that the project could devolve into a “multibillion-dollar vanity boondoggle.” They emphasized the need to focus on enhancing service rather than on name changes and grand ceremonies.
The Trump administration has instructed Amtrak, the national passenger rail service, to take over control of the Penn Station redesign effort, which has been bogged down in previous political disputes among the local transit agencies. Conflicts have also arisen regarding the potential relocation of Madison Square Garden, owned by billionaire James Dolan, who remains opposed to any move that would involve the arena.
Current plans entail maintaining the iconic Madison Square Garden while demolishing a theater situated on the site. Spokespersons for Amtrak directed queries to the federal transportation department, while the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and New Jersey Transit had yet to provide comments at the time of reporting.
