Chicago Infrastructure Funds Halted Amid Political Tensions
The U.S. government paused $2.1 billion in funding for Chicago's infrastructure projects during the shutdown. The pause impacts the Red Line Extension and Red and Purple Modernization projects, citing race-based contracting concerns. This is part of wider efforts by the Trump administration affecting transit projects in Democratic-led states.
The U.S. government has halted $2.1 billion earmarked for Chicago infrastructure projects, citing issues related to race-based contracting. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought made the announcement, marking it as another move in the political standoff during the ongoing government shutdown.
Vought also highlighted similar actions affecting $18 billion worth of transit projects in New York and $8 billion in energy projects across 16 Democratic states, showcasing a broader pattern of withholding funds under the Trump administration. The administration alleges improprieties in diversity initiatives and has vowed to combat Democratic-leaning governance.
This development has raised concerns among Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and the Chicago Transit Authority, though neither has commented immediately. With immense implications for transit routes serving over 300 million riders annually, the delay could significantly impact communities, especially those in predominantly Black and disadvantaged neighborhoods.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News