US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Calls for Urgent Improvements in NYC Subway System

The NYC subway system, a lifeline for millions of commuters, has come under sharp criticism from US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. During a press conference in Morris County, New Jersey, on March 22, 2025, Duffy delivered a scathing critique of the subway’s current state, placing the responsibility squarely on Governor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). His remarks have reignited discussions about safety, cleanliness, and the growing homelessness crisis within the transit system, while also spotlighting the federal government’s role in addressing these challenges.

A Call for Immediate Action

Duffy’s comments were unambiguous: “If you want people to take the train, make it safe, make it clean, make it beautiful, make it wonderful.” This rallying cry underscores the urgent need for improvements in the subway system, which serves as a critical artery for New York City’s daily life. While acknowledging the complexity of the issues, Duffy suggested that Governor Hochul could resolve these problems “in hours” if she prioritized them. This bold assertion highlights what he perceives as a lack of political will to tackle longstanding concerns, particularly regarding safety and the presence of unhoused individuals in stations and trains.

The subway’s condition impacts not only its riders but also the city’s overall functionality. For many New Yorkers, public transit is more than just a convenience—it’s an essential service that connects them to jobs, education, healthcare, and other vital resources. When the subway fails to meet basic standards of safety and cleanliness, it disrupts the lives of countless individuals who depend on it daily.

Federal Funding and Political Tensions

The NYC subway system receives approximately $2.5 billion annually in federal funding, making it heavily reliant on support from Washington. This financial dependency amplifies the significance of Duffy’s critique, as it ties directly into broader political tensions between the federal government and state leadership. The Trump administration has consistently expressed dissatisfaction with how New York manages its public transit infrastructure, and Duffy’s remarks reflect this ongoing friction.

Governor Hochul, who has faced increasing pressure to address subway-related issues, has yet to issue a public response to Duffy’s comments. However, the stakes are high. With federal funds playing such a crucial role in sustaining the MTA, any deterioration in federal-state relations could jeopardize future investments in the subway system. Finding common ground will be essential to ensuring continued progress and maintaining the trust of millions of commuters.

The Human Impact of Subway Challenges

Beyond the political and financial dimensions, Duffy’s critique sheds light on the human cost of the subway’s struggles. Safety concerns, coupled with the growing visibility of homelessness in stations and trains, create an environment that can feel unwelcoming or even dangerous for riders. These challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including low-income workers and students who rely on public transit as their primary mode of transportation.

For the unhoused individuals who seek refuge in the subway system, the situation presents a dual challenge. On one hand, the subway offers shelter and relative warmth during harsh weather conditions. On the other hand, their presence often exacerbates tensions among commuters and raises questions about how best to address homelessness without criminalizing poverty. Effective solutions will require collaboration between transportation authorities, social service providers, and local governments.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for NYC’s Subway?

As the debate unfolds, all eyes are on Governor Hochul and the MTA to determine how they will respond to Duffy’s criticisms. Meaningful action could take various forms, including increased funding allocations, policy reforms, or partnerships aimed at addressing both immediate and systemic issues. Regardless of the approach, the ultimate goal remains clear: to create a subway system that is safe, clean, reliable, and accessible for everyone.

In the coming weeks, the conversation sparked by Duffy’s remarks is likely to gain momentum. Advocacy groups, policymakers, and everyday commuters will undoubtedly weigh in, emphasizing the importance of investing in public transit infrastructure. After all, a well-functioning subway system benefits not only New Yorkers but also the broader economy by facilitating mobility and productivity.

Conclusion

Sean Duffy’s critique of the NYC subway system may have been blunt, but it serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for reform. Whether through federal intervention, state-led initiatives, or collaborative efforts, addressing the subway’s challenges requires decisive action. As one of the largest and most iconic public transit systems in the world, the NYC subway deserves attention, investment, and innovation to ensure it meets the needs of the communities it serves.

By focusing on safety, cleanliness, and inclusivity, leaders at every level can transform the subway into a model of urban transportation excellence. The path forward may be complex, but the potential rewards—enhanced quality of life, economic growth, and improved public confidence—are well worth the effort.