WASHINGTON – Transport Secretary Sean Duffy marked the debut of Amtrak’s new high-speed Acera train set by taking his inaugural journey from Washington, DC to New York City.
Breitbart News was among the outlets accompanying the secretary on this historic trip. The new train can reach speeds of up to 160 mph and handle curves at 150 mph. At a press event held at Union Station before departure, Duffy remarked, “It’s a great day for Acela’s competition.”
“I’m not sure who’s responsible for the weather today, but it’s glorious out—sunny skies and a band playing. Just a perfect day for this launch,” he added.
Alongside the train’s launch, the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that Union Station will come under federal control once again.
“The president has made it clear that he envisions a beautiful Union Station, where travelers in America can feel safe and enjoy a wonderful capital city,” Duffy stated during the press conference.
Deputy Chief Steven Bradbury emphasized the DOT’s objectives to secure the station’s financial stability and address its renovation needs, aiming to meet Congressional expectations and preserve the historic structure.
Bradbury also mentioned efforts to lay groundwork for future station expansions.
After the press conference, reporters hurried to board the new Acera for its first journey to New York City. Duffy rode along, engaging with the press and answering questions as the train approached Philadelphia. One question from a reporter centered on how the new Acela would benefit working-class Americans.
Transport Secretary Duffy and Deputy Secretary Bradbury engage with reporters during the inaugural journey of the new Acera train to New York City.
Duffy highlighted that the Acera fleet is set to grow to 15-28 trains, with a significant capacity increase of 27% in seating.
“We currently have 15 Acera trains in operation. Five more will start service tomorrow, leading to a total of 28,” Duffy detailed. “That means more trains can travel more frequently along the northeast corridors.”
“I believe that with our expansion, we can achieve two key things: we may reduce fares through dynamic pricing, which is something that takes a bit to fully grasp, but ultimately should enhance the riding experience.”
After approximately 25 minutes of discussions, reporters settled in as the train headed directly for New York City, scheduled to arrive around 1 p.m.
Upon arriving at Penn Station, Duffy introduced a major development initiative by the Metropolitan Transportation Agency (MTA) in New York. He expressed skepticism about the MTA’s capacity to deliver on its promises and held a press conference alongside Bradbury and transportation expert Andy Byford, who announced a $43 million grant aimed at facilitating the project.
“Often, the president isn’t heavily involved in projects like this. Thankfully, we have a president who genuinely cares about the initiatives that matter to New Yorkers,” Duffy remarked.
“We’re excited to announce this $43 million funding to kick off recruiting master developers. We’re aiming to work swiftly,” he added. “This isn’t about dragging the process out over 20-30 years. It’s about using available resources smartly—not just for today, but for future generations as well.”
Byford will spearhead the Amtrak project.
“I’m thrilled to be back in New York. This is exactly where I want to be, and this is the project I’m passionate about,” Byford commented.
“Starting today, companies interested in participating can begin the process to become master developer partners,” Byford announced. “We’re initiating a fundamental transformation of Penn Station from this moment onward.”
