# New York State Expands Transit Security Funding

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the allocation of an additional **$45 million** in the 2025 budget to expand the New York National Guard's Joint Task Force Empire Shield mission. This expansion increases the task force to 1,050 service members dedicated to enhancing security and deterring terrorist activities at major transit hubs, including Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The initiative reflects a strategic investment in public safety infrastructure and interagency coordination involving the New York National Guard and Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the increased funding directed toward security personnel and related operational support, signaling potential contracting opportunities for security services, equipment, and technology providers.
- The expansion of Joint Task Force Empire Shield indicates a sustained commitment to transit security, which may lead to future solicitations for surveillance systems, communication tools, and protective gear.
- Vendors specializing in public safety and defense support services should evaluate how to engage with New York State agencies and the National Guard to align offerings with evolving security requirements.
- Agencies and contractors can leverage this development to anticipate budget allocations and procurement cycles focused on enhancing transit and commuter network safety.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- New York National Guard
- Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police (MTA Police)
- Joint Task Force Empire Shield (JTF-ES)
- State of New York

### Key Quotes
> I am deeply grateful for their service and sacrifice, and I will continue to stand behind our National Guard and ensure that they have the resources and support they need to protect New Yorkers.
> — Kathy Hochul, Governor

### Sources
- [Keeping New Yorkers Safe: Governor Hochul Joins New York National Guard at Grand Central to Highlight Enhanced Security Efforts in Major Transit Hubs | Governor Kathy Hochul | New York State](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/keeping-new-yorkers-safe-governor-hochul-joins-new-york-national-guard-grand-central-highlight) - NY