Gateway Tunnel Project work could restart soon, Schumer says

The Trump administration halted funding for the critical infrastructure project, but Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says the remaining $98 million could be released in the next 24 hours.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Gateway Tunnel Project, a critical infrastructure initiative connecting New York and New Jersey, has been halted due to the Trump administration's decision to withhold federal funding. However, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has stated that the remaining $98 million in funding could be released within the next 24 hours, potentially allowing work on the project to resume in a matter of days.

Why it matters

The Gateway Tunnel Project is a vital transportation link between the two states, and its completion is crucial for the region's economic growth and development. The project's suspension has left hundreds of union workers out of work, and its continued delay could have significant economic consequences for the area.

The details

The Trump administration halted funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project, citing concerns about the project's budget and timeline. President Trump has been vocal in his opposition to the project, describing it as a "future boondoggle" that would cost "many BILLIONS OF DOLLARS more than projected or anticipated." However, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Representative Jeff Van Drew have both called for the project to be completed, with Van Drew urging the governor to work with the president to ensure the project is done "on time, on budget, and in a fiscally responsible way."

  • On Monday, President Trump posted on social media expressing his opposition to the Gateway Tunnel Project.
  • On Tuesday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul visited the project site and met with laborers who are out of work due to the funding halt.
  • On Tuesday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he expects the remaining $98 million in federal funding to be released within the next 24 hours, potentially allowing work to resume in a few days.

The players

Chuck Schumer

Senate Minority Leader, who has stated that the remaining $98 million in federal funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project could be released within the next 24 hours.

Kathy Hochul

Governor of New York, who has been in regular communication with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and has called the president to urge him to release the funding for the project.

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States, who has expressed opposition to the Gateway Tunnel Project, citing concerns about the project's budget and timeline.

Jeff Van Drew

Republican Representative from New Jersey, who has called for the project to be completed in a fiscally responsible way.

Nicole Malliotakis

Representative who helped secure funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project and has urged the White House to release the federal funding to keep the work going.

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What they’re saying

“If this doesn't come through, don't know what to do. Got a lot of bills. Got family, kids. Everybody's rooting for Donald Trump to release these funds. I mean, this is very serious.”

— Roland Bolanos, Union member (CBS News)

“Until his illegal actions forced the project to shut down ... Gateway was on time and on budget.”

— Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Governor (CBS News)

“We expect the remaining $98 million to be sent over to Gateway in the next 24 hours, which means the workers will be getting back to work in a few days.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader (CBS News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.