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Agency to assert control over Union Station in Washington D.C., a property it already owns, according to the Secretary of Transportation.

Enhanced Administration at Union Station Plans to Improve Operations and Potentially Partnership with Private Enterprises According to Sean Duffy.

, and Administrator

2025 September 8 . 8:20 AM

2 min read

Federal department head declares intent to assume control over Union Station in Washington D.C., a... — Federal department head declares intent to assume control over Union Station in Washington D.C., a property the agency already possesses.

Agency to assert control over Union Station in Washington D.C., a property it already owns, according to the Secretary of Transportation.

The Transportation Department has announced its intention to take control of Union Station in Washington, D.C., starting from September 3, 2025. This move is part of a new plan that involves oversight of certain territories.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy made the announcement, stating that the department aims to manage Union Station's property more effectively. The decision is aimed at addressing long-standing issues such as crime, homelessness, and grime at the station.

Duffy expects that the DOT's takeover will increase Union Station's income, attract more private investments, and encourage private sector development and investment. The department also anticipates improved security as a factor in drawing in more private investors for the iconic train depot.

Located blocks from the U.S. Capitol, Union Station has been known more as a center for vagrancy than a hub for commerce and travel. However, Duffy mentioned Amtrak's new high-speed trains during a press conference, suggesting a potential expansion of the station.

The DOT's reasoning for the takeover includes the potential for a private sector expansion of Union Station. The department believes that the takeover will entice more development and investments in the soaring train depot.

President Donald Trump may benefit from Union Station's redevelopment, as it has valuable commercial aspects. The DOT's takeover is not a power play, according to Duffy, but rather an effort to improve security for the building and leverage its commercial potential.

The DOT's announcement also mentions the desire to attract more private investments and encourage private sector development at Union Station. The department believes that its control over the station will lead to increased income for the building.

This move comes as part of a broader effort to revitalise public infrastructure in the United States. Union Station, with its rich history and strategic location, is poised to play a significant role in this endeavour.