Jacob Brown
New York City subway riders traversing the F and M lines between Manhattan and Queens can breathe a sigh of relief. The extensive track replacement project, which has caused disruptions since August, is set to conclude by the end of March.
On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced that the project is on track for completion, meeting its deadline and budgetary targets.
End of Track Replacement:
Scheduled to wrap up on March 31, the track replacement initiative along the F line between 47-50 Streets-Rockefeller Center in Manhattan and 36 St in Queens marks the end of a period of inconvenience for commuters.
Regular service along the F and M lines will resume on April 1, with trains making their usual stops in both boroughs.
Final Stage Adjustments:
As the project enters its final stage, the shuttle service operating between Lexington Avenue-63rd Street and 21st Street-Queensbridge will cease on Saturday, March 30, paving the way for the resumption of normal subway operations.
During the final weekend of service changes, the MTA has outlined alternative travel options for affected passengers:
- A free shuttle bus will connect Roosevelt Island, 21 St-Queensbridge, and Queens Plaza, operating approximately every 5 to 10 minutes.
- The F train will continue to operate via the E in both directions.
- M train service will operate between Metropolitan Av and Delancey St-Essex St, and via the J to/from Chambers Street as the last stop from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday, March 29. Normal overnight/weekend service will resume at 10:00 p.m. on the same day.
Improving Subway Infrastructure:
The extensive project aims to enhance reliability, address leaks, prevent corrosion, and prolong the lifespan of existing infrastructure.
Activities undertaken include:
- Removing old tracks.
- Installing new concrete tracks and signaling equipment.
- Repairing concrete structures.
- Installing new third rails.
