The MTA is looking for backup funding sources to keep the proposed Interborough Express project moving forward because federal support is uncertain. The IBX, estimated to cost $5.5B, is only half funded thus far. MTA Chair Janno Lieber said the agency does not want to wait indefinitely for Washington funding and is preparing alternative financing options. He described the approach as “optimistic realism.” The line received some federal money for early design and environmental review work during the Biden administration, but officials worrythe current administration may slow or deny future discretionary grants. Environmental
review and engineering work are ongoing, with the MTA hoping to finish those phases by the end of next year so construction can begin sooner, but only if financing is secured.