DOT Cancels $54 Million in University Grants

The Department of Transportation has abruptly terminated $54 million in university grants, labeling them as advancing ideological agendas misaligned with its core mission. The decision, announced under new Secretary Sean P. Duffy, targets funding awarded during Pete Buttigieg’s tenure, sparking debate over federal priorities.

The grants, distributed to various universities, supported research into diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and climate-focused transportation initiatives. One notable example included San Jose State University’s $6 million project exploring “intermodal inequities,” which aimed to address disparities in urban transit access.

Duffy’s office stated the funds were redirected to prioritize infrastructure projects like road repairs and bridge safety, aligning with what it calls practical transportation needs.

During Buttigieg’s leadership from 2021 to 2025, the Department allocated substantial grants to modernize infrastructure while emphasizing social equity and environmental goals. The $435 million awarded to 34 university transportation centers in 2023 included studies on decarbonizing transport hubs in underserved communities.

Supporters of the cancellation, including some congressional Republicans, claim the grants diverted resources from tangible infrastructure improvements. They point to the slow progress of projects like electric vehicle charging stations, where only 44 stations were built despite $7 billion allocated.

Opponents, including university leaders and Democratic lawmakers, warn that halting these grants stifles research critical to equitable and sustainable transportation systems. They argue projects like improving bus stop accessibility in Durham, North Carolina, directly benefited marginalized communities.

The decision reflects a broader shift as the Department prepares for new leadership priorities under the incoming administration. Duffy, a former congressman and Fox News personality, was appointed to focus on efficiency and safety, according to President-elect Donald Trump’s team.

Some academics reportedly expressed concern that the term “woke” is being weaponized to dismiss legitimate research without thorough review. They fear this could set a precedent for politicizing federal funding decisions.

The Department has not released a detailed list of all canceled grants, leaving universities awaiting clarity on which projects are affected. This lack of transparency has fueled accusations of rushed decision-making.

Buttigieg, who left office in January 2025, has not publicly commented on the cancellations. His tenure was marked by navigating crises in rail and airline sectors while overseeing billions in infrastructure spending.

The controversy underscores tensions between immediate infrastructure demands and long-term research investments. As the Department reallocates funds, the impact on universities and underserved communities remains a point of contention.