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Service Advisories

Former MTA Chair Conway passes at 85; weekend service changes for 13 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak October 24, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on October 24, 2015

Late on Friday, the MTA sent out a press release announcing that Virgil Conway, the MTA Chairman from 1995-2001, passed away earlier this week at the age of 85. At some point soon, we should assess Conway’s tenure. He was a Pataki man through and through and ushered in an era of political pressure to cut costs in the wrong way. He was a big proponent of the early planning for the East Side Access project, and he played a big role in securing funding for the Second Ave. Subway. His legacy reverberates today.

“Virgil was a hugely influential and effective chairman, and many of the successes and accomplishments the MTA celebrates today are the result of his hard work and his heartfelt service to the region,” current MTA Chairman and CEO Thomas Prendergast said. “He remains a beloved member of the MTA family, and he will be sorely missed.”

Thoughts are with his family right now.

* * *

Click through the jump for this weekend’s service changes.

October 24, 2015 2 comments

Queens Service Advisories

A Nostalgia Train for the Mets, TWA’s open house and weekend service changes

by Benjamin Kabak October 17, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on October 17, 2015

The Train of Many Colors will celebrate the Mets' NLCS appearance this weekend.

The Train of Many Colors will celebrate the Mets’ NLDS appearance this weekend.

The Mets don’t make the NLCS too often these days, and the MTA is pulling out the stops to celebrate. On both Saturday and Sunday this weekend, the 11-car Train of Many Colors will run from 34th St.-Hudson Yards to Willets Point-Mets via the 7 line. If last week’s 4 train ride to the Bronx is any indication, the 7’s own Nostalgia Train will be packed full with Mets and rail fans alike. Unlike the 4, this one ain’t running non-stop. The train will make express stops along the 7 en route to Citi Field, and you can catch it at 6:30 p.m. each night from the newest subway station in the system. That will be quite a sight.

On another note, this weekend is Open House New York, and it’s also the last chance for New Yorkers to check out the old TWA Flight Center in front of JetBlue’s Terminal 5 at JFK Airport before it turns into a hotel. It’s open from 11-3 p.m. on Sunday, and no reservations are required. I’ve seen it twice, and I can’t recommend the trip enough. Check it all out right here on OHNY’s website.

Meanwhile, there are some service changes this weekend. You know the drill. Click through for all the details.

October 17, 2015 3 comments

Service Advisories

Weekend work affecting 16 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak October 10, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on October 10, 2015

Thanks for sticking with me through the lack of content this week. I had a busy few days — including a tough loss at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday night. Next week, we discuss Ydanis Rodriguez’s support for a traffic pricing plan, the mayor’s supposed offer of $2 billion for the MTA’s capital plan and Gov. Cuomo’s recalcitrance with regards to MTA financing, and, perhaps, some thoughts on subway station mezzanines. If you want more transit-related ramblings during the week, be sure to check out my Twitter account. I keep up the commentary even when posts here are sporadic.

Meanwhile, here are this weekend’s service changes.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, 1 trains are suspended in both directions between 14 St and South Ferry. Take the 2345R trains and free shuttle buses. 23 trains run local in both directions between 34 St-Penn Station and Chambers St. Free shuttle buses provide alternate service between Chambers St and South Ferry.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, 2 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 3 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 10 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Crown Hts-Utica Av bound 4 trains run local from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 10 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Woodlawn-bound 4 trains run local from Crown Hts-Utica Av to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, 5 trains are suspended in both directions between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St. 5 service operates every 20 minutes between E 180 St and Bowling Green. Free shuttle buses operate all weekend between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St, stopping at Baychester Av, Gun Hill Rd, Pelham Pkwy, and Morris Park. Transfer between trains and shuttle buses at E 180 St.

From 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, October 10 and from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Sunday, October 11, downtown 5 trains local from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St. 5 trains run every 20 minutes.

From 3:45 a.m. Saturday, October 10 to 10:00 p.m. Sunday, October 11, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall bound 5 trains run express from Pelham Bay Park to Hunts Point Av.

From 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday, October 10 and from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 11, 6 trains run every 16 minutes between 3 Av-138 St and Pelham Bay Park. The last stop for some trains headed toward Pelham Bay Park is 3 Av-138 St. To continue your trip, transfer at 3 Av-138 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, A trains are rerouted via the F line in both directions between W 4 St-Wash Sq and Jay St-MetroTech.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, A trains run local in both directions between W 4 St-Wash Sq and 59 St-Columbus Circle.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, October 11, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, October 11 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Brooklyn-bound A trains run express from 125 St to 59 St-Columbus Circle.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Lefferts Blvd-bound A trains skip 104 St.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, C trains are rerouted via the F line in both directions between Jay St-MetroTech and W 4 St-Wash Sq.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, Brooklyn-bound C trains run express from 125 St to 59 St-Columbus Circle.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Norwood-205 St bound D trains are rerouted via the N line from Coney Island-Stillwell Av to 36 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, October 11, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, October 11 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Norwood-205 St bound D trains run express from 36 St to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, E trains are rerouted via the F in both directions between Roosevelt Av and W4 St-Wash Sq. Free shuttle buses run between Court Sq-23 St and 21 St-Queensbridge, stopping at Queens Plaza.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 10 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, E trains run local in both directions in Queens due.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, F trains are suspended in both directions between Coney Island-Stillwell Av and Kings Hwy. Free shuttle buses operate between Kings Hwy and Coney Island-Stillwell Av, making all station stops. Transfer between F trains and free shuttle buses at Kings Hwy. Customers who use the Coney Island-Stillwell Av terminal should consider using DN or Q trains to/from Manhattan.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, F trains run local in both directions in Queens.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, L trains are suspended in both directions between Canarsie-Rockaway Pkwy and Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs. Take free express and local shuttle buses and AC or J trains.

Free local shuttle buses provide alternate service between Rockaway Pkwy and Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs, stopping at East 105 St, New Lots Av, Livonia Av, Sutter Av, Atlantic Av, Broadway Junction, Bushwick Av, Wilson Av, and Halsey St.
Free express shuttle buses serve Rockaway Pkwy, Broadway Junction, and Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs only.
Transfer between free shuttle buses and L trains at Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs. To/from Manhattan, consider the AC or J via transfers between trains and shuttle buses at Broadway Junction.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, October 11, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, October 11 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, Queens-bound N trains run express from 59 St to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight, Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, R service is extended to the Jamaica-179 St F station.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight, Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, Manhattan-bound R trains run express from 59 St to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, October 11, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, October 11 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, R trains are suspended in both directions between 59 St and 36 St in Brooklyn.

Rockaway Park
From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 9 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 12, the Rockaway Park Shuttle is suspended. Free shuttle buses provide alternate service between Rockaway Park and Beach 67 St A station, stopping at Beach 105 St, Beach 98 St, and Beach 90 St. Transfer between free shuttle buses and A trains at Beach 67 St.

42nd Street
From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight, Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 42 Street Shuttle is suspended. Take the 7 instead.

October 10, 2015 6 comments

Service Advisories

Threat of Joaquin delays most weekend work

by Benjamin Kabak October 3, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on October 3, 2015

As of Saturday morning, Joaquin’s track had turned away from the U.S.

Earlier this week, the National Hurricane Center scared us all with a warning that this massive storm named Joaquin could head our way. Yet, the European forecast model — the one that picked up Sandy’s eventual track early on — disagreed, and by week’s end, after hand-wringing and planning, Joaquin is now forecast to wander the sea. It has raised doubts regarding the U.S. forecast models, and in New York, it led the MTA to cancel most weekend work. An MTA spokesman told me they had to reassign personnel for storm prep and couldn’t move forward with work. That’s a “damned if you don’t” situation, and I can’t fault the MTA for careful planning.

Thus, there ain’t much happening this week. Enjoy it while you can.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 3 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 5, Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer bound E trains run local from Roosevelt Av to 71 Av.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, October 2 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 5, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains run express from W4 St Wash Sq to 34 St-Herald Sq.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, October 3 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, October 5, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains run local from Roosevelt Av to Forest Hills-71 Av.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight, Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, R service is extended to the Jamaica-179 St F station.

October 3, 2015 1 comment

Service Advisories

NYC survives the Pope as weekend work claims 13 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak September 25, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on September 25, 2015

Congrats, New York! We survived the Pope-inspired transit-maggedon! But in reality, it was fine. New York City showed what would happen with fewer cars as streets were empty and life went on. The Pope himself recently had some insightful words on prioritizing spending that our city’s and state’s leaders should heed.

So as the week ends, we’ve now had two weeks of the 7 line extension, and coverage of early ridership figures has missed the long game. Ridership has been only around 7000 per day, and as some papers have noted, that’s well below the forecasts of 32,000 per day. Of course, that 32,000 figure is a future projection when the Hudson Yards development is open. Today, no one lives there. For now, the 7 line extension is a train to a developing area, and it will encourage growth. By the end of the decade, ridership should be right where the MTA expects it to be.

Meanwhile, as the first fall weekend dawns, there’s work to be done and weekend service to change. As always, these come to me from the MTA. Plan accordingly.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, 1 trains are suspended in both directions between 14 St and South Ferry. Take the 2345R trains and free shuttle buses. 23 trains run local in both directions between 34 St-Penn Station and Chambers St. Free shuttle buses provide alternate service between Chambers St and South Ferry.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, 2 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 Midnight Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 3 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 7:30 a.m. Sunday, September 27, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, September 27 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, Crown Hts-Utica Av bound 4 trains run express from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, 5 trains are suspended in both directions between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St. 5 service operates every 20 minutes between E 180 St and Bowling Green. Free shuttle buses operate all weekend between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St, stopping at Baychester Av, Gun Hill Rd, Pelham Pkwy, and Morris Park. Transfer between trains and shuttle buses at E 180 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall bound 6 trains run express from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St.

From 5:45 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26 and Sunday September 27, Flushing-Main St bound 7 trains run express from Queensboro Plaza to 74 St-Broadway.

To 33 St, 40 St, 46 St, 52 St, and 69 St, take the Flushing-Main St-bound 7 to 61 St-Woodside or 74 St- Broadway and transfer to a Hudson Yards-bound 7.
From these stations, take a Hudson Yards-bound 7 to 61 St-Woodside or Queensboro Plaza and transfer to a Flushing-Main St bound 7.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, A trains are rerouted via the F line in both directions between W 4 St-Wash Sq and Jay St-MetroTech.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, A trains run local in both directions between W 4 St-Wash Sq and 59 St-Columbus Circle.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, Brooklyn-bound A trains run express from 168 St to 125 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, Lefferts Blvd-bound A trains skip 104 St.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, C trains are rerouted via the F line in both directions between Jay St-MetroTech and W 4 St-Wash Sq.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, Brooklyn-bound C trains run express from 168 St to 125 St.

From 9:45 p.m. Friday, September 25, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains are rerouted via the M line from 47-50 Sts to Roosevelt Av.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, F trains are suspended in both directions between Coney Island-Stillwell Av and Church Av. Free shuttle buses operate between Coney Island-Stillwell Av and Church Av, making all station stops. Transfer between F trains and free shuttle buses at Church Av. Customers who use the Coney Island-Stillwell Av terminal should consider the DNQ to/from Manhattan.

From 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, September 27, L service operates in two sections.

Between 8 Av and Broadway Junction.
Between Broadway Junction and Rockaway Pkwy, every 24 minutes.

From 7:45 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26, Queens-bound Q trains skip Neck Rd and Avenue U.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 25 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 28, the Rockaway Park Shuttle is suspended. Free shuttle buses provide alternate service between Rockaway Park and Beach 67 St A station, stopping at Beach 105 St, Beach 98 St, and Beach 90 St. Transfer between free shuttle buses and A trains at Beach 67 St.

September 25, 2015 29 comments

Service Advisories Straphangers Campaign

Straphangers’ best and worst; a 1 train shutdown; weekend work

by Benjamin Kabak September 19, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on September 19, 2015

Earlier this week, the Straphangers Campaign handed out their annual subway rankings, and they mysteriously awarded the 7 line the top spot while knocking the B and 5 train to the bottom. It’s confounding to see this rankings because they don’t make much sense. The C and R trains all perform much worse than the B and 5, and the F and G suffer on seat availability and service consistency. The B I take every day, and it’s an average subway line for what it is (which is complementary service along routes with other express or local trains), and the 7 is a packed train suffering from unreliable service due to an array of issues. But that’s all anecdotal anyway.

I’ve had bones to pick with the Straphangers’ methodology in the past, and the awards are designed to garner headlines more than anything else. That a major riders’ advocacy group claims most subway rides aren’t worth the fare is problematic by itself. If you’d like to read their full report, have at it.

Anyway, as Friday night rolls into Saturday, the weekend service advisories are focused around the 1 train, or lack thereof. The MTA has shut down the 1 train for the entire weekend. Alternate service includes the 2, 3, A and C trains, some regular Manhattan buses and free shuttle buses. It’s not ideal for anyone, and the MTA put out a press release calling the work “absolutely critical in order to provide safe, reliable service into the future.” The work includes brick arch repairs at 168 St and 181 St, repairs in the vicinity of 125 St, track panel installation north of 215 St and ongoing Hurricane Sandy recovery work at the South Ferry station. The 2 and 3 will still run local.

Here’s everything, straight for the pens of the MTA:

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 1 trains are suspended in both directions between Van Cortlandt Park-242 St and South Ferry. Take the 2/3/A/C trains, M3, M100 and free shuttle buses instead. 3 service operates between Chambers St and 148 St overnight.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 2 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 96 St.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 3 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 96 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 7:30 a.m. Sunday, September 20, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, September 20 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, Crown Hts-Utica Av bound 4 trains run express from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 5 trains are suspended in both directions between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St. Free shuttle buses operate all weekend between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St, stopping at Baychester Av, Gun Hill Rd, Pelham Pkwy, and Morris Park. Transfer between trains and shuttle buses at E 180 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall bound 6 trains run express from 125 St to Grand Central-42 St.

From 3:45 a.m. Saturday, September 19 to 10:00 p.m. Sunday, September 20, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall bound 6 trains run express from Pelham Bay Park to Hunts Point Av.

From 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday, September 19 and from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, September 20, 6 trains run every 16 minutes between 3 Av-138 St and Pelham Bay Park. The last stop for some trains headed toward Pelham Bay Park is 3 Av-138 St. To continue your trip, transfer at 3 Av-138 St to a Pelham Bay Park-bound 6.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, September 19 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, A trains are suspended in both directions between Euclid Av and Ozone Park-Lefferts Blvd. A service operates in two sections between Inwood-207 St and Euclid Av, and between Rockaway Blvd and Far Rockaway every 20 minutes. Free shuttle buses operate between Euclid Av and Lefferts Blvd, stopping at Grant Av, 80 St, 88 St, Rockaway Blvd, 104 St, and 111 St. Transfer between trains and free shuttle buses at Euclid Av and/or Rockaway Blvd.

From 3:45 a.m. Saturday, September 19 to 10:00 p.m. Sunday, September 20, Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound D trains are rerouted via the N line from 36 St to Coney Island-Stillwell Av.

From 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, World Trade Center-bound E trains skip Briarwood and 75 Av.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains run express from Neptune Av to Smith-9 Sts.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18, to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains run express from W 4 St to 34 St-Herald Sq.

From 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, September, 19 and Sunday, September 20, Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound N trains are rerouted via the R line from Canal St to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr. Trains stop at City Hall, Cortlandt St, Rector St, Whitehall St, Court St, Jay St-MetroTech, and DeKalb Av.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, Astoria-bound N trains are rerouted via the D line from Coney Island-Stillwell Av to 36 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 10:00 p.m. Sunday, September 20, Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound Q trains run express from Prospect Park to Kings Hwy.

From 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, September, 19 and Sunday, September 20, Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound Q trains are rerouted via the R line from Canal St to Dekalb Av.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 midnight Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, R service is extended to the Jamaica-179 St F station.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 18 to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, September 20, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, September 19 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, 36 St-bound R trains stop at 53 St and 45 St.

September 19, 2015 4 comments

7 Line Extension Brooklyn Service Advisories

The quick G fix & MTA funding; the 7 line opens; weekend work on 14 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak September 12, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on September 12, 2015

MTA workers repair the bench that led to the G train derailment. (Photo: MTA New York City Transit / Marc A. Hermann)

G train derailment leads to sniping over MTA funding

Following Thursday’s G train derailment, the MTA restored full service to the line by mid-afternoon on Friday, and then the fighting began. I’ll have much more on this next week, but in announcing restored service, MTA CEO and Chair Tom Prendergast let loose on the city and Mayor de Blasio for their lack of support for MTA financing.

The G, Prendergast noted, derailed when it came into contact with a deteriorated section of bench wall. The incident, by the way, was around 300 feet away from where Thursday’s earlier rail condition had occurred. Prendergast viewed this as a clear sign that support for the MTA’s maintenance is lagging, and he urged action. “I am tired of writing letters to City officials that result only in vague calls for more conversations,” he said. “The sooner we can end these games and get to work on rebuilding our transit network, the better we can serve the 8.5 million customers who rely on the MTA every day.”

Earlier in the day, TWU President John Samuelsen had issued a similar statement asking the city to pay more. Clearly, Gov. Cuomo had sent his allies to put pressure on New York City. Whether NYC should fund more of a state agency’s capital plan has become a hotly contested debate of late. More, as I mentioned, next week.

7 line opens Sunday

Until late last night, the MTA’s website had barely any mention of the opening of the 7 line extension stop at 34th Street, and it seemed weird. They should be plastering everything they own with this news, but they could be wary about drawing too much attention to the 21-month delay. Still, the 7 line is opening at 1 p.m. Sunday, and it’s the MTA’s first new subway stop in a generation. I’ll be on hand earlier in the day with photos. Be sure to check out my Instagram and Twitter accounts for updates. Unfortunately, Transit Wireless was unable to complete service installation for day 1. So the new station won’t be wired. I’ll have updates as soon as I have cell service.

For recent coverage of the 7 train extension, check out my posts. I look at the long lost stop at 41st and 10th, the now-bisected lower level at 42nd St. and 8th, the messy updates to the map, and future extensions to Chelsea or New Jersey.

Weekend work advisories for 14 subway lines

Now, after the jump, this weekend’s subway advisories, straight from the MTA. If anything looks wrong, take it up with them.

September 12, 2015 23 comments

Service Advisories

Weekend work, West Indian Day Parade affecting 11 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak September 4, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on September 4, 2015

The N train’s Sea Beach Line is among the oldest rights-of-way in the city, and the current iteration dates from nearly 100 years ago. The stations themselves are in a sorry state, and the MTA has recently unveiled a 9-stop, $500-million repair effort that is going to take four years. This is all about the MTA’s efforts at reaching the elusive State of Good Repair, and a recent Citizens Budget Commission report highlighted the ins and outs and ups and downs of this effort. I’ll have more on what the CBC called a Sisyphean effort on Monday night after the three-day weekend. For now, ponder the Brooklyn Eagle’s coverage of the work and wonder about timelines and scope. The price tag — over $55 million per open-air station — seems steep, but the finished product sounds much nicer than what N train riders experience today.

Meanwhile, as the unofficial end of summer arrives, weekend subway work keeps on chugging along, albeit at a slower pace. Leave extra time for travel, and enjoy the long weekend.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, 1 trains are suspended in both directions between 14 St and South Ferry. 2 and 3 trains run local in both directions between 34 St-Penn Station and Chambers St. Free shuttle buses provide alternate service between Chambers St and South Ferry.

From 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 7, 2, 3 and 4 trains skip Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum. Use the nearby Grand Army Plaza or Franklin Av stations instead.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 7, 2 trains are suspended in both directions between E 180 St and 149 St-Grand Concourse.
Free shuttle buses operate along two routes:

Express shuttle buses run between E 180 St and 149 St-Grand Concourse, stopping at the Hunts Point Av 6 station and 3 Av-149 St.
Local shuttle buses make all stops between E 180 St and 149 St-Grand Concourse. Transfer between trains and free shuttle buses at E 180 St, Hunts Point Av, and/or 149 St-Grand Concourse.

From 11:30 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 1:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. Monday, September 7, 2 trains skip Church Av in both directions.

From 6:30 a.m. to 12 midnight, Saturday to Monday, September 5 to September 7, 3 trains run local in both directions between Chambers St and 34 St-Penn Station.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 7:30 a.m. Sunday, September 6, and from 11:45 p.m. Sunday, September 6 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 7, Crown Hts-Utica Av bound 4 trains run express from 14 St-Union Sq to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall.

From 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 7, 4 trains run local in Brooklyn, skipping the Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum station.

From 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, September 5, and from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Sunday, September 6, 5 trains are suspended in both directions between E 180 St and Bowling Green. Take the 4 and free shuttle buses instead. 5 shuttle service operates between Eastchester-Dyre Av and E 180 St.
Free shuttle buses operate along two routes:

Express shuttle buses run between E 180 St and 3 Av-149 St, stopping at the Hunts Point Av 6 station.
Local shuttle buses make all station stops between E 180 St and 3 Av-149 St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 7, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall bound 6 trains run express from 14 St-Union Sq to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall.

Beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, September 8 until Winter 2016, Far Rockaway/Lefferts Blvd-bound A trains skip 80 St.

For Service To this station, take the Far Rockaway or Lefferts Blvd-bound A to 88 St and transfer to a Brooklyn-bound A.

For Service From this station, take a Brooklyn-bound A to Grant Av and transfer to a Far Rockaway or Lefferts Blvd-bound A.

Beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, September 8 until Winter 2016, Far Rockaway/Lefferts Blvd-bound A trains skip 111 St.

For Service To this station, take the Lefferts Blvd-bound A to Lefferts Blvd and transfer to a Brooklyn-bound A.
For Service From this station, use the Q112 bus, days and evenings. Or, take a Brooklyn-bound A to 104 St and transfer to a Lefferts Blvd-bound A.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 6:30 a.m. Monday, September 7, and from 11:45 p.m. Monday, September 7 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, Downtown A trains run express from 59 St-Columbus Circle to Canal St.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 6:30 a.m. Monday, September 7, and from 11:45 p.m. Monday, September 7 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, Inwood-207 St bound A trains run express from 125 St to 168 St.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 5 to Monday, September 7, Downtown C trains run express from 59 St-Columbus Circle to Canal St.

From 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 5 to Monday, September 7, 168 St-bound C trains run express from 125 St to 168 St.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, September 5 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, E trains run local in both directions between Queens Plaza and Forest Hills-71 Av.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, Jamaica-179 St bound F trains run express from Neptune Av to Smith-9Sts.

From 11:45 p.m. Friday September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound F trains are rerouted via the E line from Roosevelt Av.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, September 5 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 8, F trains run local in both directions in Queens.

From 12:01 a.m. Saturday, September 5 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 7, J trains run every 20 minutes. The last stop for some J trains headed toward Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer is 111 St.

From 11:15 p.m. Friday, September 4 to 5:00 a.m. Monday, September 8, Manhattan-bound Q trains run express from Kings Hwy to Prospect Park.

September 4, 2015 16 comments

Service Advisories

Updates on Night Tube service, manspreading; weekend work for 13 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak August 29, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on August 29, 2015

So as Ye Olde Towne of London gets ready to unveil a truly novel concept — 24-hour Tube service on some lines — the plan has hit a snag. The problem is that the union and Transport for London officials have not come to terms on how best to staff the new service, and they won’t be able to debut the new service on September 12th as originally planned. The dispute centers around quality-of-life concerns, as union officials are not satisfied with TFL’s staffing plans for the new 24-hour service and worry that their members’ work-life balance will be disrupted by overnight shifts. Eventually, the two sides will come to terms, likely when TFL agrees to hire new employees for the overnight shifts and the unions expand their work roles. Still, Londoners are now left with a longer wait for 24-hour service.

Coming from the U.K., we have another story on public transit, this one concerning a popular word. The Oxford Dictionaries — part of Oxford University Press which publishes the Oxford English Dictionary — has determined that manspreading is a word, despite my autocorrect’s never-ending attempts at making it two words. Officially, the definition extends to any instance of manspreading, and here’s how Oxford defines it: “The practice whereby a man, especially one travelling on public transport, adopts a sitting position with his legs wide apart, in such a way as to encroach on an adjacent seat or seats.” Make of that what you will; the MTA’s newest mugs and magnets remain a crowning achievement related to this new word.

In case you missed it, the big news this week concerned the official opening of the 7 line extension. It’s slated for Sunday, September 13, and I’ll be on hand with camera to file a full report. Look out for some posts related to the 7 line next week. I also took a look at the flaws in the ferry plan and funding the MTA’s capital plan through a surcharge on taxi rides. You can also catch me on Instagram and Twitter. After the jump come this weekend’s service advisories.

August 29, 2015 15 comments

Rolling Stock Service Advisories

The mayor’s words; Bianco’s retirement; weekend work for 16 subway lines

by Benjamin Kabak August 21, 2015

written by Benjamin Kabak on August 21, 2015

After over three decades of transportation work, NYC Transit President Carmen Bianco retired on Friday. (Photo: MTA New York City Transit / Marc A. Hermann)

I don’t have too much to say here for now about Mayor Bill de Blasio’s week. Those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I don’t have a particularly high opinion of him, and I think his reactionary response to even consider removing the Times Square pedestrian plazas due to a bunch of half-naked women is very telling. He’s ineffective and doesn’t understand the constituency that put him in charge. I may write more, but check out Twitter for my shorter thoughts. I wouldn’t be surprised if he isn’t even the Democratic nominee for mayor in 2017.

In Transit news, Friday was New York City Transit President Carmen Bianco’s last day on the job, and earlier this week, he gave an exit interview to amNew York. The takes are short, but Bianco offers some tantalizing tidbits, including this on upcoming subway car design:

The MTA is looking for a car that can last over 40 years and carry many people. “You may be able to fit more by looking at the seating arrangements — if you need to have seats down at all times,” said Bianco. “These are things on our minds as we design cars, and we see the crowds we have. What can we do to get more people on? Can we widen the doors, is that possible? Can we find a way so that people don’t stand near the doors, and people can get in and out? That’s all in design with our engineers.”

To me it sounds as though Bianco is talking about reviving the 2010 flip-seat pilot that went nowhere. That seems like a red herring, and I still don’t understand why the MTA is so resistant to open gangways. I explored this very topic in April and then saw open gangways in action throughout Europe this past summer. It’s a no-brainer really and one the MTA should implement immediately. The MTA is still seeking for a successor to Bianco.

Finally, weekend service changes. After the jump, find out how you can get around this weekend.

August 21, 2015 12 comments

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