More 14th St. - Canarsie News

[daveklepper]

• i. We made it through the week together—THANK YOU! Nobody likes change, but New Yorkers are resilient and yes, patient, flexible and polite. L trains were very crowded on nights and weekends as expected, and will continue to be. But many more of you heeded our advice and tried out new routes using our more frequent alternate service. So this week's newsletter is dedicated to all the "customers formerly known as L train riders on weeknights and weekends." We want to hear about your experience. Did you take the M train for the first time and discover the view from the Williamsburg Bridge? Take the J and realize you have connectivity a lot longer than the L? Use our question form to tell us how it was and what we can do to improve. And read about a few things we're already working on below. Also, as promised, we posted the results from our dust monitoring following the first weekend of work (summary: they're well below the limits we've set), and will continue to publish these on Fridays. You can see all of our reports here. Catch up on L Project Weekly newsletters here The M train is really nice if you hate transferring "Where does the M train go?" Other than "can I transfer for free between the subway and bus?" (A: yes), this was the question we heard the most while we were out chatting with you this week. Turns out New Yorkers and visitors alike aren't used to this magical train, given that it used to hibernate after dark and on weekends. But now that the M train is running every 8 minutes on nights and weekends, and with an extended route, it has a ton of benefits—a view from the Williamsburg Bridge, connections to 14 other subway lines in Manhattan alone... ...and a bunch of "one-seat trips" (as we call it in the biz). So this one's for you, customer-who-doesn't-like-to-make-subway-transfers:   Places you can get to with a one-seat trip on the M train  1. SoHo and NoHo (Broadway-Lafayette): Spend the day shopping if that's your thing, or check out the International Center of Photography (more our thing). 2. West Village/Greenwich Village (W 4 St Station): Springtime at Washington Square Park is the best. In the other direction, NYU students, here's your Williamsburg alternative. 3. Koreatown/Herald Square (34 St-Herald Sq): For the visitors: Macy's. For the visitors or the locals: karaoke. 4. Midtown (42 St-Bryant Park, 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr): It's in the name. Bryant Park. Rockefeller Center. Also: don't miss the New York Public Library's Reading Room in the main branch. 5. More midtown (57 St): Two blocks away from Central Park. One avenue away from 5th Avenue.  6. Upper East Side (Lexington Av / 63 on up the Q line): The art work in our stations. Sometimes called "an underground art museum," check out the permanent art installations starting at the Lexington Av / 63 Station. Learn about the M train schedule Behind the scenes: Countdown clocks, work trains, and other first week fixes No matter how much you prepare, you can't plan for everything. During our first week of the single-track operation, we tried a lot of things for the first time in MTA New York City Transit history. Many things worked. A few didn't.  From the beginning, we promised we'd be able to make changes quickly, which we've been doing. Here are a few things we're working on or have already improved: 1. Work trains We have to use work trains to get materials and crews in the jobsite. As we planned out the schedule for work trains, our mindset was always "how do we maximize the number of regular trains" within that work train schedule. So our initial plan was to mix work trains and regular trains, including the extra "overlay" trains in Brooklyn. But even though we had more trains, they weren't running reliably. The extra regular train service wasn't worth it if the work trains were slowing it down as much as it was. So we're trying a new way to make service as consistent as possible: we are adjusting the schedule to start the Brooklyn overlay service a bit later—10:45 p.m. (instead of 10:25 p.m.) at Lorimer St on most weeknights, and a bit later on Friday nights. This schedule adjustment will allow us to move work trains directly into the work zone. For you, this means L train service between Manhattan and Brooklyn will be more reliable during the ramp down period (between 8 and 10 p.m.). 2. Countdown clocks and apps When we were starting to plan for the single-track operation, we immediately brought in our IT team. They're the ones who know how the data feeds from the modern CBTC signaling system drive the information you see—the countdown clocks and navigation apps.  They made a ton of changes behind the scenes in advance, including programming that special "overlay" train in Brooklyn so that you know it's "last stop, Lorimer St." But the single-tracking proved to be more challenging. So everyone from IT, the Rail Control Center and Service Delivery got in a room to figure out why the data kept jumping around. We could talk about this for a whole newsletter, so we'll leave it at this: we have a few solutions we're testing out, and if you see a blank screen, it's because we're trying something but don't think it's ready for prime time.  3. Line map inside M, J, L and (any new cars on the) G You know the graphics inside of some train cars that show the next stop information? Our newer cars have it, including many of the ones used along the M, J and L trains.  When possible, we integrate the bus lines that connect at key stations, so that you can see it on the map and hear it via announcements. Because of the special way these maps are produced, it's going to take some time before you see them in train cars. But when we do, you'll be notified of those critical connections. For example at Marcy Av: "Connection is available to the Williamsburg Link B91 and B92." Weekender: Plan ahead for Five Boro Bike Tour, McCarren 5K & 10K We're always on the look out for big events around the city that could impact our service. Here are two this week that we're watching, and our advice if you're taking part in the fun: 1. Five Boro Bike Tour (Sunday): The ride starts in Lower Manhattan, so take the J to get there. Please be courteous to your fellow riders and don't take bikes on the L train during the busy times. Most L stops are super close to other lines that run more frequently and will have more space. 2. McCarren 5K & 10K (Saturday): The race already happened, but shout-out to the team at St. Nicks Alliance for being great partners as we planned ahead to shift our Williamsburg Link routes (B91 and B92) and some stops during the race hours (8-11 a.m.). Learn all of your service options What's a "fan plant"? Along our train lines, we have industrial structures that we operate for ventilation purposes. Meet the very literally-named: "fan plant." For the L line, we built two fan plants in 1916 before the tunnel opened for service—one near the river on Avenue D in Manhattan and one on N 7th St in Williamsburg (way before the 2005 rezoning of Williamsburg and Greenpoint when the area was industrial!). We use them any time we do work on the L, like in recent weeks with the nights and weekends with no L service. We need to continue using these fan plants regularly during the project for safety. But we know the noise is disruptive, so we are taking steps to minimize it as much as possible. We've already 1) made a plan with our contractors and 2) used that plan to first activate the Avenue D fan plant before the one in Williamsburg as it's now by the new residences built after the rezoning. The Avenue D fan plant is close to the river in a fully industrial area. Here are some quick facts about fan plants and how we're operating them during the L tunnel work: They are needed to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 130 requirements for Emergency Tunnel Smoke Evacuation and OSHA requirements for workers. We will need to use both fan plants, but will start by running the Avenue D fan plant first, evaluate conditions, then use the Brooklyn one as needed. We'll continue that process as conditions require. The fan plants will be used when L service is reduced to the every-20-minute-situation around 10 p.m., and again in the morning when service is resumed to the normal schedule. Both fan plants will also be used while we're working in the tunnel as needed. We are currently working with our environmental engineering team to look for even more ways to reduce noise from the fan plant, in addition to minimizing its use. Learn more about our construction Construction update: This weekend Here are the highlights from our work this weekend: Install fiber cable for CBTC, which will allow us to move more trains closer together Install discharge pipe to the Avenue D fan plan to enhance the tunnel's resiliency Swap out old track plates and ties for a more comfortable ride Progress the station expansion of Bedford Av Glamour shot of the week: Look for the pink Maps, travel options, trip tips: To get to where you need to go, look for the pink signs around stations.   Photo: Marc Hermann / MTA New York City Transit / Fri., April 26, 2019 Get in touch Sign up for our text alerts Call 511 and say "subways" then "L train" Tweet @NYCTSubway with #LProject Ask a team member: We're still going to have lots of staff out from 8 Av to Lorimer St over the weekend. Look for someone with a pink button that says "Ask me about the L Project"  Learn more Learn more and stay connected Website: Get the latest on the L Project Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter Read old newsletters: Check out the archive Share Tweet Email Copyright © 2019 Metropolitan Transportation Authority New York City Transit, All rights reserved. You are receiving this because you opted in via our website, survey or a public meeting. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

  

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• i. We made it through the week together—THANK YOU! Nobody likes change, but New Yorkers are resilient and yes, patient, flexible and polite. L trains were very crowded on nights and weekends as expected, and will continue to be. But many more of you heeded our advice and tried out new routes using our more frequent alternate service. So this week's newsletter is dedicated to all the "customers formerly known as L train riders on weeknights and weekends." We want to hear about your experience. Did you take the M train for the first time and discover the view from the Williamsburg Bridge? Take the J and realize you have connectivity a lot longer than the L? Use our question form to tell us how it was and what we can do to improve. And read about a few things we're already working on below. Also, as promised, we posted the results from our dust monitoring following the first weekend of work (summary: they're well below the limits we've set), and will continue to publish these on Fridays. You can see all of our reports here. Catch up on L Project Weekly newsletters here The M train is really nice if you hate transferring "Where does the M train go?" Other than "can I transfer for free between the subway and bus?" (A: yes), this was the question we heard the most while we were out chatting with you this week. Turns out New Yorkers and visitors alike aren't used to this magical train, given that it used to hibernate after dark and on weekends. But now that the M train is running every 8 minutes on nights and weekends, and with an extended route, it has a ton of benefits—a view from the Williamsburg Bridge, connections to 14 other subway lines in Manhattan alone... ...and a bunch of "one-seat trips" (as we call it in the biz). So this one's for you, customer-who-doesn't-like-to-make-subway-transfers:   Places you can get to with a one-seat trip on the M train  1. SoHo and NoHo (Broadway-Lafayette): Spend the day shopping if that's your thing, or check out the International Center of Photography (more our thing). 2. West Village/Greenwich Village (W 4 St Station): Springtime at Washington Square Park is the best. In the other direction, NYU students, here's your Williamsburg alternative. 3. Koreatown/Herald Square (34 St-Herald Sq): For the visitors: Macy's. For the visitors or the locals: karaoke. 4. Midtown (42 St-Bryant Park, 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr): It's in the name. Bryant Park. Rockefeller Center. Also: don't miss the New York Public Library's Reading Room in the main branch. 5. More midtown (57 St): Two blocks away from Central Park. One avenue away from 5th Avenue.  6. Upper East Side (Lexington Av / 63 on up the Q line): The art work in our stations. Sometimes called "an underground art museum," check out the permanent art installations starting at the Lexington Av / 63 Station. Learn about the M train schedule Behind the scenes: Countdown clocks, work trains, and other first week fixes No matter how much you prepare, you can't plan for everything. During our first week of the single-track operation, we tried a lot of things for the first time in MTA New York City Transit history. Many things worked. A few didn't.  From the beginning, we promised we'd be able to make changes quickly, which we've been doing. Here are a few things we're working on or have already improved: 1. Work trains We have to use work trains to get materials and crews in the jobsite. As we planned out the schedule for work trains, our mindset was always "how do we maximize the number of regular trains" within that work train schedule. So our initial plan was to mix work trains and regular trains, including the extra "overlay" trains in Brooklyn. But even though we had more trains, they weren't running reliably. The extra regular train service wasn't worth it if the work trains were slowing it down as much as it was. So we're trying a new way to make service as consistent as possible: we are adjusting the schedule to start the Brooklyn overlay service a bit later—10:45 p.m. (instead of 10:25 p.m.) at Lorimer St on most weeknights, and a bit later on Friday nights. This schedule adjustment will allow us to move work trains directly into the work zone. For you, this means L train service between Manhattan and Brooklyn will be more reliable during the ramp down period (between 8 and 10 p.m.). 2. Countdown clocks and apps When we were starting to plan for the single-track operation, we immediately brought in our IT team. They're the ones who know how the data feeds from the modern CBTC signaling system drive the information you see—the countdown clocks and navigation apps.  They made a ton of changes behind the scenes in advance, including programming that special "overlay" train in Brooklyn so that you know it's "last stop, Lorimer St." But the single-tracking proved to be more challenging. So everyone from IT, the Rail Control Center and Service Delivery got in a room to figure out why the data kept jumping around. We could talk about this for a whole newsletter, so we'll leave it at this: we have a few solutions we're testing out, and if you see a blank screen, it's because we're trying something but don't think it's ready for prime time.  3. Line map inside M, J, L and (any new cars on the) G You know the graphics inside of some train cars that show the next stop information? Our newer cars have it, including many of the ones used along the M, J and L trains.  When possible, we integrate the bus lines that connect at key stations, so that you can see it on the map and hear it via announcements. Because of the special way these maps are produced, it's going to take some time before you see them in train cars. But when we do, you'll be notified of those critical connections. For example at Marcy Av: "Connection is available to the Williamsburg Link B91 and B92." Weekender: Plan ahead for Five Boro Bike Tour, McCarren 5K & 10K We're always on the look out for big events around the city that could impact our service. Here are two this week that we're watching, and our advice if you're taking part in the fun: 1. Five Boro Bike Tour (Sunday): The ride starts in Lower Manhattan, so take the J to get there. Please be courteous to your fellow riders and don't take bikes on the L train during the busy times. Most L stops are super close to other lines that run more frequently and will have more space. 2. McCarren 5K & 10K (Saturday): The race already happened, but shout-out to the team at St. Nicks Alliance for being great partners as we planned ahead to shift our Williamsburg Link routes (B91 and B92) and some stops during the race hours (8-11 a.m.). Learn all of your service options What's a "fan plant"? Along our train lines, we have industrial structures that we operate for ventilation purposes. Meet the very literally-named: "fan plant." For the L line, we built two fan plants in 1916 before the tunnel opened for service—one near the river on Avenue D in Manhattan and one on N 7th St in Williamsburg (way before the 2005 rezoning of Williamsburg and Greenpoint when the area was industrial!). We use them any time we do work on the L, like in recent weeks with the nights and weekends with no L service. We need to continue using these fan plants regularly during the project for safety. But we know the noise is disruptive, so we are taking steps to minimize it as much as possible. We've already 1) made a plan with our contractors and 2) used that plan to first activate the Avenue D fan plant before the one in Williamsburg as it's now by the new residences built after the rezoning. The Avenue D fan plant is close to the river in a fully industrial area. Here are some quick facts about fan plants and how we're operating them during the L tunnel work: They are needed to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 130 requirements for Emergency Tunnel Smoke Evacuation and OSHA requirements for workers. We will need to use both fan plants, but will start by running the Avenue D fan plant first, evaluate conditions, then use the Brooklyn one as needed. We'll continue that process as conditions require. The fan plants will be used when L service is reduced to the every-20-minute-situation around 10 p.m., and again in the morning when service is resumed to the normal schedule. Both fan plants will also be used while we're working in the tunnel as needed. We are currently working with our environmental engineering team to look for even more ways to reduce noise from the fan plant, in addition to minimizing its use. Learn more about our construction Construction update: This weekend Here are the highlights from our work this weekend: Install fiber cable for CBTC, which will allow us to move more trains closer together Install discharge pipe to the Avenue D fan plan to enhance the tunnel's resiliency Swap out old track plates and ties for a more comfortable ride Progress the station expansion of Bedford Av Glamour shot of the week: Look for the pink Maps, travel options, trip tips: To get to where you need to go, look for the pink signs around stations.   Photo: Marc Hermann / MTA New York City Transit / Fri., April 26, 2019 Get in touch Sign up for our text alerts Call 511 and say "subways" then "L train" Tweet @NYCTSubway with #LProject Ask a team member: We're still going to have lots of staff out from 8 Av to Lorimer St over the weekend. Look for someone with a pink button that says "Ask me about the L Project"  Learn more Learn more and stay connected Website: Get the latest on the L Project Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter Read old newsletters: Check out the archive Share Tweet Email Copyright © 2019 Metropolitan Transportation Authority New York City Transit, All rights reserved. You are receiving this because you opted in via our website, survey or a public meeting. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

  

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Hi. We made it through the week together—THANK YOU! Nobody likes change, but New Yorkers are resilient and yes, patient, flexible and polite. L trains were very crowded on nights and weekends as expected, and will continue to be. But many more of you heeded our advice and tried out new routes using our more frequent alternate service.

So this week's newsletter is dedicated to all the "customers formerly known as L train riders on weeknights and weekends." We want to hear about your experience. Did you take the M train for the first time and discover the view from the Williamsburg Bridge? Take the J and realize you have connectivity a lot longer than the L? Use our question form to tell us how it was and what we can do to improve. And read about a few things we're already working on below.

Also, as promised, we posted the results from our dust monitoring following the first weekend of work (summary: they're well below the limits we've set), and will continue to publish these on Fridays. You can see all of our reports here.

 

 

 

The M train is really nice if you hate transferring

"Where does the M train go?" Other than "can I transfer for free between the subway and bus?" (A: yes), this was the question we heard the most while we were out chatting with you this week.

Turns out New Yorkers and visitors alike aren't used to this magical train, given that it used to hibernate after dark and on weekends. But now that the M train is running every 8 minutes on nights and weekends, and with an extended route, it has a ton of benefits—a view from the Williamsburg Bridge, connections to 14 other subway lines in Manhattan alone... ...and a bunch of "one-seat trips" (as we call it in the biz). So this one's for you, customer-who-doesn't-like-to-make-subway-transfers:   Places you can get to with a one-seat trip on the M train  1. SoHo and NoHo (Broadway-Lafayette): Spend the day shopping if that's your thing, or check out the International Center of Photography (more our thing). 2. West Village/Greenwich Village (W 4 St Station): Springtime at Washington Square Park is the best. In the other direction, NYU students, here's your Williamsburg alternative. 3. Koreatown/Herald Square (34 St-Herald Sq): For the visitors: Macy's. For the visitors or the locals: karaoke. 4. Midtown (42 St-Bryant Park, 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr): It's in the name. Bryant Park. Rockefeller Center. Also: don't miss the New York Public Library's Reading Room in the main branch. 5. More midtown (57 St): Two blocks away from Central Park. One avenue away from 5th Avenue.  6. Upper East Side (Lexington Av / 63 on up the Q line): The art work in our stations. Sometimes called "an underground art museum," check out the permanent art installations starting at the Lexington Av / 63 Station.

Behind the scenes: Countdown clocks, work trains, and other first week fixes

No matter how much you prepare, you can't plan for everything. During our first week of the single-track operation, we tried a lot of things for the first time in MTA New York City Transit history. Many things worked. A few didn't.  From the beginning, we promised we'd be able to make changes quickly, which we've been doing. Here are a few things we're working on or have already improved: 1. Work trains We have to use work trains to get materials and crews in the jobsite. As we planned out the schedule for work trains, our mindset was always "how do we maximize the number of regular trains" within that work train schedule. So our initial plan was to mix work trains and regular trains, including the extra "overlay" trains in Brooklyn. But even though we had more trains, they weren't running reliably. The extra regular train service wasn't worth it if the work trains were slowing it down as much as it was. So we're trying a new way to make service as consistent as possible: we are adjusting the schedule to start the Brooklyn overlay service a bit later—10:45 p.m. (instead of 10:25 p.m.) at Lorimer St on most weeknights, and a bit later on Friday nights. This schedule adjustment will allow us to move work trains directly into the work zone. For you, this means L train service between Manhattan and Brooklyn will be more reliable during the ramp down period (between 8 and 10 p.m.). 2. Countdown clocks and apps When we were starting to plan for the single-track operation, we immediately brought in our IT team. They're the ones who know how the data feeds from the modern CBTC signaling system drive the information you see—the countdown clocks and navigation apps.  They made a ton of changes behind the scenes in advance, including programming that special "overlay" train in Brooklyn so that you know it's "last stop, Lorimer St." But the single-tracking proved to be more challenging. So everyone from IT, the Rail Control Center and Service Delivery got in a room to figure out why the data kept jumping around. We could talk about this for a whole newsletter, so we'll leave it at this: we have a few solutions we're testing out, and if you see a blank screen, it's because we're trying something but don't think it's ready for prime time.  3. Line map inside M, J, L and (any new cars on the) G You know the graphics inside of some train cars that show the next stop information? Our newer cars have it, including many of the ones used along the M, J and L trains.  When possible, we integrate the bus lines that connect at key stations, so that you can see it on the map and hear it via announcements. Because of the special way these maps are produced, it's going to take some time before you see them in train cars. But when we do, you'll be notified of those critical connections. For example at Marcy Av: "Connection is available to the Williamsburg Link B91 and B92."

[daveklepper]

Hi there. It's today. Thank you for sticking with us and for helping us spread the word about the service changes. It's been fun meeting you out in stations this week, and the sentiment is clear—we're New Yorkers, we can do this. Also we issued a press release today to recap our next steps, and three things were new: The contract negotiation is finalized. The total cost of the project will be reduced by $10 million. The estimated project timeline is 15-18 months. Thank you again, and see you soon (on the Williamsburg Link buses, M, G or 7 trains?). Step 1: Pick a station, step 2: make a plan Procrastinator? We have you covered. We made special guides for select stations along the L where there are the most service changes on nights and weekends (14 St-6 Av: you get an M!). But first, a quick L service cheat sheet: L service during tunnel rehabilitation, April 26, 2019—Summer 2020: No changes during the day on weekdays and rush hours Reduced service between Manhattan and Brooklyn on weeknights and weekends starting at 8 p.m., running every 20 minutes starting at 10 p.m. (normal service was always every 20 minutes between 1:30 and 5 a.m., so service during that time stays the same) Within Brooklyn, every 10 minutes in both directions on weeknights from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. and on weekends from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Our advice: for most of you, alternative service options will be faster when L service is reduced, especially during busy times when you might not be able to board the first train. Click a station below to get the full download. Not beholden to any particular station? Go here. We have a special L Project team behind the scenes (and one of the leaders grew up along the L) For the past few months, one of our main focus areas has been "how are we going to manage service in a way that keeps both the L trains moving and people safe?"  Answer: put a special L Project team structure in place.  This is a team designed to do two things: 1) make decisions about train and bus service, thinking holistically about our system and 2) do it quickly. Field team: group station managers, platform controllers, wayfinders, traffic checkers, bus dispatchers, station agents and NYPD. These are the people who are seeing things in real-time, keeping you safe. We've designated a special "Field Captain" role, staffed largely from our group station manager team, who will be on-site at each station between 8 Av and Lorimer St on the L.  Service delivery team: train operators, dispatchers and general superintendents at the Rail Control Center. Here we have another special role for the L Project—the "Canarsie Coordinator" (we like alliteration), staffed by senior leaders at the Rail Control Center. The two leadership roles are designed to expedite decision-making. One of the Canarsie Coordinators has a particularly interesting point of view on the L Project: he grew up in Greenpoint and Williamsburg. Meet Jose LaSalle:   Q:  How would you describe your role? A: In some ways, the "Canarsie Coordinator" title is a misnomer. It's my job to be the big picture guy. See that there's a disruption on the A and know "oh, we need to start sending people to the J, and travel a few stops back even, because it will be faster." Q: What do you think makes you ready for the job? A: Maybe because I'm the only one who said I'd work 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.?! But no really, I do have a very well-rounded background being at NYC Transit for 26 years across many divisions. A division. B division. C division—work trains and flagger operations. And from 2010 to 2013, I was in the Office of System Safety when Sandy hit. I went to 148 and Lenox and saw that the water was parallel to the platform. I couldn't believe it. Then Whitehall—a brand new station—totally wrecked. But it shocked us all when we heard that the L was the worst.  Q: What advice would you give to your former neighbors in Williamsburg and other L riders? A: To have improvements to our system, you gotta do the work! I was there in the 2000s when we resignaled the line, and yeah it was tough, but look at it now. I think the L resignaling on CBTC is a big part of why the community has grown so much. For the L Project, this work we're doing, it's obviously critical. And we're making the most of it with the elevators, and the substations so we can run more trains. We need it. Even though it doesn't feel like it, the community will definitely be better for it. What to expect at L stations Normally L trains run every 5 minutes during most of the day on weekends. So with service only every 20 minutes between Manhattan and Brooklyn, especially for the first few weeks when people are still figuring out that alternatives are probably faster, there could be times when folks will have to wait to enter the platform or wait on line. Here are a few things to be ready for if you take the L: 1. Changed circulation patterns: At a few stations on nights and weekends, you'll always be directed to enter a station via one entrance, and exit via the other (see sign here for an example at Union Square). We'll also be putting up barricades and tape to help guide you in a way that organizes flow better. 2. Holding before going to the platform: Safety is our top priority, and we can't have crowding on platforms. So you might wait on line before going down to the platform. 3. Temporary service changes: Depending on the demand for the L train, we may have to implement service changes temporarily, like bypassing or restricting entry. These are things you've likely experienced before; they're tactics we use to keep you safe and moving. These strategies are not our starting point, but we need contingency plans to keep everyone safe in case too many customers decide not to use the alternative service options. 4. Trains holding for a bit at select stations: At certain stations, trains will be held for a few minutes (with the doors open). Since we're single-tracking on nights and weekends, we have to make sure we're maximizing our use of that single-track, so these temporary holds will help us do that. 5. A funny-looking train at Bedford Av: The single-tracking operation will make for an odd-looking situation: the empty L train that is turning around and heading back to Brooklyn will actually peek into the station. And by "peek," we mean a few car lengths. Yes it will look odd. But that's just how the interlockings work.  Construction this weekend The tunnel rehabilitation part of the L Project starts this weekend, but what are we actually doing? Here are the top items on our checklist: Replacing track ties for a smoother ride New tunnel lighting system to enhance safety Replacing signal cables to improve reliability Expanding pump capacity to enhance resiliency We have a sign for that We want to make it as easy as possible to know where to go on nights and weekends. So we made lots of signs and we made them pink. Here are a few to look out for to help you get around: 1. "Station signage" Very descriptive, we know. We put these along rails and in stations at key transfer points. Here's one outside of 14-St Union Sq Station. 2. Bus cannisters Yes, that's their official name. A "cannister" can be used to hold any kind of material. We like to use ours for super helpful next stop and connecting subway lines information. These are all along the (free) Williamsburg Link bus routes (B91 and B92). 3. More station signage! You'll find these where the single-track operation means different than normal train service. This is what we posted at Lorimer St Station, where some trains will end at Lorimer St and some will continue on to Manhattan. Get in touch You know what signs to look for. But don't be shy to ask for help. Here's how: Sign up for our text alerts Call 511 and say "subways" then "L train" Tweet @NYCTSubway with #LProject Ask a team member: Especially for the first few weekends, we'll have lots of staff out from 8 Av to Lorimer St. Look for someone with a pink button that says "Ask me about the L Project"  Learn more Glamour shot of the week: We're ready Several members of our leadership did a walkthrough of the L train tunnel this week to see the preparations, including the test fiber reinforced polymer (FRP).   Photo: Marc Hermann / MTA New York City Transit / Tues., April 24, 2019 Learn more and stay connected Website: Get the latest on the L Project Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter Read old newsletters: Check out the archive

 

[daveklepper]

Updated: 4/18/2019

The revised approach for the L Project means that we'll be able to run service on the L at all times, with reduced service on nights and weekends. We've created an alternate service plan to help you navigate starting April 26, 2019 through summer 2020. Use this page to learn more about travel tips and construction progress.

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Service options during rehabilitation work

With the revised approach, the L will continue as normal during the busiest weekday times. During nights and weekends, L service will be reduced. We're adding extra M, G, 7, and bus service to give you more options. We're also adding two special Williamsburg Link bus routes for additional service. Subways are still the fastest way to get around, so our plan is focused on connecting you with a subway line as quickly as possible.

Updated 4/19/2019

L service will continue as normal during peak and midday weekday times. Service on the L will be reduced nights and weekends. During these times, use our new alternative service options on this map to avoid wait times and crowding.

This service plan will be in effect on nights and weekends, starting at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 26, 2019, through summer 2020.

Service Map: Weeknights and Weekends, April 26, 2019 through summer 2020

Service alternatives map

L Train schedule

With the revised approach, L customers will have normal service during the highest ridership times.

Weeknights: 10 PM to 5 AM, with service ramping down at 8 PM, L trains run every 20 minutes between Brooklyn and Manhattan and every 10 minutes within Brooklyn. Service will ramp down starting at 8 PM to make room for work trains. Overnight, between 1:30 AM and 5 AM, the service runs at its normal frequency, with L trains running every 20 minutes.

Weekends: 10 PM Friday until 5 AM Monday, with service ramping down at 8 PM Friday, L trains run 20 minutes between Brooklyn and Manhattan, and every 10 minutes within Brooklyn. Overnight, between 1:30 AM and 5 AM, service runs at its normal frequency, with L trains running every 20 minutes.

L trains will run every 10 minutes within Brooklyn thanks to extra trains between Lorimer St and Canarsie-Rockaway Pkwy. We’ll be running these trains during the busiest times L service is impacted by tunnel work (10 PM-1:30 AM weeknights and 6 AM to 1:30 AM weekends). Service on the L will be reduced nights and weekends. We're enhancing M, G, 7, and bus service to provide alternatives.

Weekdays	5 AM to 8 PM	Regular L service
Weekdays	8 PM to 10 PM	L service begins to ramp down: Brooklyn-bound (estimates based on Union Square) 8 PM to 9 PM: approx. every 5 min 9 PM to 9:30 PM: approx. every 12 min 9:30 PM to 10 PM: transition to 20 min Manhattan-bound 8 PM to 8:30 PM:  Rockaway Pkway every 6-10 minutes Broadway Junction every 5 minutes Lorimer St and Bedford Av every 5 minutes 8:30 to 9 PM:  Rockaway Pkway every 20 minutes Broadway Junction every 20 minutes Lorimer St and Bedford Av every 5 to 20 minutes (ramp down)
Weeknights	10 PM to 1:30 AM	Reduced L service (every 20 minutes between Brooklyn and Manhattan, every 10 minutes within Brooklyn)
Weeknights	1:30 AM to 5 AM	Regular L service (every 20 minutes)
Weekends	6 AM to 1:30 AM	Reduced L service (every 20 minutes between Brooklyn and Manhattan, every 10 minutes within Brooklyn)
Weekend nights	1:30 AM to 6 AM	Regular L service (every 20 minutes)

Enhanced subway service

M service

Weeknights, we’ll extend the hours of normal weekday service into Manhattan, between 10PM and 1:30 AM. After 10 PM on weeknights, we’ll extend M service up to 96 St-2 Av on the Q , instead of to Queens Blvd.

Weekends, we’ll extend service from Essex St to 96 St-2 Av. M trains will run every 8 minutes instead of every 10 minutes during the day.

G service

Weeknights we’ll be running 5 additional G trips between 8:30 PM and 1:30 AM. On weekends, trains will run every 8 minutes instead of every 10 minutes during the day.

7 service

Weeknights, we’ll run 5 additional trips from 8:30 PM to midnight. On weekends, 7 trains will continue to run every 4 to 7 ½ minutes.

Enhanced M14A regular bus service

We’re planning additional M14A bus service to connect customers to the subway lines where we are enhancing service.

The extra M14A route service will extend to connect with Delancey/Essex St FJM Station. On weekends the M14A/D buses, combined, run every 3 to 5 minutes for the majority of the day along 14 St. 

On weeknights, buses will run every 4 to 5 minutes between 8 PM and midnight, in both directions across 14th Street for connection to the M train at 6th Avenue, or to the 6 train at Union Square for transfer to the M train at the Broadway-Lafayette station.The M14A will connect to the Delancey-Essex J/M Station every 7 to 10 minutes (as compared to every 12 to 20 minutes currently).

Weekday nights (M14 A/D combined)

	East-bound	West-bound
8 PM-10 PM	Every 4 minutes	Every 4 minutes
10 PM-2 AM	Every 5 minutes	Every 5 minutes
2 AM-5 AM	Every 7 minutes	Every 8.5 minutes

Sundays (M14 A/D combined)

	East-bound	West-bound
5 AM-8 AM	Every 7 minutes	Every 10 minutes
8 AM-8 PM	Every 3 minutes	Every 3 minutes
8 PM-11 PM	Every 4.5 minutes	Every 4 minutes
11 PM-2 AM	Every 6 minutes	Every 5 minutes

Saturdays (M14 A/D combined)

	East-bound	West-bound
5 AM-8 AM	Every 8 minutes	Every 11 minutes
8 AM-8 PM	Every 3 minutes	Every 3 minutes
8 PM-11 PM	Every 5 minutes	Every 7 minutes
11 PM-2 AM	Every 6.5 minutes	Every 5 minutes

New Williamsburg Link buses

We are introducing a new bus, the Williamsburg Link. It will operate on two routes, one clockwise (B92) and one counterclockwise (B91). This bus will provide double the bus service we normally do when there is no L service during weekend and weeknight construction work.

These buses provide connection between:

• the Bedford Av L,
• Metropolitan Av- Lorimer St G / L,
• Marcy Av J / M, and
• Hewes St J /M (B92 only).

Weekday nights 

	B91	B92
8 PM-9 PM	Every 9 minutes	Every 9 minutes
9 PM-12 AM	Every 5 minutes	Every 5 minutes
12 AM-1:30 AM	Every 10 minutes	Every 10 minutes

Weekends

	B91	B92
5 AM-8 AM	Every 10 minutes	Every 10 minutes
8 AM-10 PM	Every 3 minutes	Every 3 minutes
10 PM-12 AM	Every 5 minutes	Every 5 minutes
12 AM-1:30 AM	Every 10 minutes	Every 10 minutes

Free Transfers

We're adding free transfers to make it easier to make connections. These include:

• Between Livonia St on the L and Junius St on the 3
• Connect from Broadway on the G to either Hewes St or Lorimer St on the J and M

[daveklepper]

[daveklepper]

Hello. Good news, Manhattanites—we’ve made a ton of progress on 14th Street and so we’re able to cut back our working hours. Two open houses done and two to go (see you on Tuesday, Brooklyn). Don't forget to take our survey before the Monday deadline. And we heard from a few of you asking about dust in L stations earlier this week. Our monitoring showed that the air quality was and is safe, which is why we ran service as normal. But we know dust isn't pleasant. So we're working closely with the contractor to look at changing their methods to be as aggressive as possible in reducing dust. Please continue sending us your questions—you can always get in touch with us via our comment page. Construction update: Hours in Manhattan are going down We've been making lots of progress along 14th Street in Manhattan (see below for the latest). Thank you again to the businesses and the residents for sticking with us. And that progress comes with good news—starting this week on Monday (3/18), we'll be able to reduce our work hours in Manhattan from 7-11 to 7-7 on weekdays (Saturday's 7-6 shift will stay the same). Manhattan construction updates: New entrance at Avenue A Currently, we're constructing the roof on the north entrance, and placing the concrete for the staircase walls at the south entrance We'll continue this work next week, including starting the room at the south entrance New elevators on north and south sides of 14th Street We're in the process of installing rebar for the shaft walls on the north entrance We're continuing here and then working on the south side New substation (near Avenue B) Completed the excavation (see photo above!) Beginning to install the protective concrete (which is what the workers in the above photo are doing) Survey closes Monday, March 18   51% of respondents so far said that for a routine trip, they don't look at their travel options before setting out (27% check a third-party trip-planning app, and 22% use the MyMTA app).  What do you do? And how do you like to be communicated with? Take our survey to let us know so we can best communicate with you during the tunnel rehabilitation work. Take our survey now—it'll be open through this Monday, March 18. Complete the survey Progress report: Union Sq and Bedford Av projects are on schedule We're on schedule for both the Union Sq Station stair project and the Bedford Av Station mezzanine expansion and stair project. Union Sq stairs connecting L and NQRW platforms (scheduled to open by beginning of April): Demolition is complete. Over the weekend, both stairs will be delivered. Bedford Av stairs and mezzanine (scheduled to open 3/25): One stair will be completed this weekend, followed by the completion of the mezzanine and additional stair. In the meantime, please remember to take extra caution on these two platforms, and look for an MTA team member or NYPD officer if you need assistance.  Williamsburg residents and commuters talk with MTA staff including Janno Lieber, Chief Development Officer and President, MTA Capital Construction, at the open house on March 13. We're going to Brooklyn (again) on March 19 Thanks to all of you who came to the first two open houses. Don’t worry if you missed them. Save the date for one of the next two here via our Facebook page or use this list: Brooklyn: Tuesday, March 19, Grand Street Campus High School, 850 Grand St (btw Bushwick Ave & Waterbury St) Manhattan: Monday, April 8, 14th St Y, 344 E 14 St (btw 1st & 2nd Aves) Save the date Customer question of the week Q:  Will there still be an out of system MetroCard transfer between the G and J trains or will you just be relying on the shuttle bus service in a loop to bring riders to connect to the L and G at Metropolitan Avenue/Lorimer Street and the J and M at Marcy Avenue to ease overcrowding at the Metropolitan/Lorimer transfer?  A: Short answer is yes, both!  The Williamsburg Link buses will make the following connections as they run in separate loops: B91: Marcy Av —Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St —Bedford Av B92: Marcy Av — Bedford Av — Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St — Hewes St Free out of system transfers will be provided at: Broadway (G) and Lorimer St (JM)/Hewes St (JM) Junius St (3) and Livonia (L) Reminder: Overnight and weekend service changes on the L continue through this weekend Our work on the L line continues this weekend all-day between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in March.  Use the button below to get the full details of what we're doing and learn how to plan your trip using our alternate service options. Maps and details are also available at key connecting stations. Learn more Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter

[daveklepper]

Hi there. Bedford Av Station is about to get a lot bigger (ahem, way ahead of schedule, too). We want to hear from you in a new survey. Brooklyn: see you next week on March 13 at our open house.  And which borough reads this newsletter more? A reader asked us, and we were curious, too. Your answer is below, along with a reminder to forward this to a friend, and make sure they subscribe. Have a nice above-20-degree weekend.

Coming (really) soon: Bedford Av Station mezzanine expansion

Crews place the concrete for the new mezzanine's steel columns at Bedford Av Station

Good news—we're way ahead of schedule on the major mezzanine expansion we've been building at Bedford Av Station. We'll be ready to open it on Monday, March 25.  But before it's finished, we have to build two new stairs to connect the mezzanine to the platform. We're going to do these one at a time, but it's still going to make the platform extra crowded. Starting this coming Monday, March 11, our team and NYPD will be out helping you navigate safely. FYI, if you're traveling in the busy morning or evening times and get off the train at this station, you'll be directed to exit on the Driggs Avenue side. So please take extra caution at the station (no texting while walking!), and look for a friendly MTA employee or NYPD officer if you need help. And here are some quick facts about this expansion: The mezzanine extension will provide space for the new elevator, additional turnstiles and access to the new stairs. We are also adding two new stairs from the mezzanine to the platform, which will offer 50 percent more room than our current stairs. The new stairs will also help you find a less crowded spot on the platform because of the way they are designed.

Survey: How can we better communicate with you?

Do you check a trip-planning app before you leave home? What information do you find most helpful when we have changes in service? We want to know! Your feedback will help us better equip you to plan your trip when we start the tunnel rehabilitation work. Take our survey now—it'll be open through Monday, March 18.

Complete the survey

We're going to Brooklyn on March 13 Thanks to the 200-ish of you who came out to our open house this week in Manhattan (we even spotted a few Brooklynites who made the trek). We heard from many of you that it was valuable to have one-on-one time with our team and NYC DOT who are the ones doing the work behind the scenes. We appreciate the feedback and are glad to hear it was time well-spent! There are three more coming up; save the date here via our Facebook page or use this list: Brooklyn: Wednesday, March 13, Williamsburg Northside School, 299 N 7 St (at Meeker Ave) Brooklyn: Tuesday, March 19, Grand Street Campus High School, 850 Grand St (btw Bushwick Ave & Waterbury St) Manhattan: Monday, April 8, 14th St Y, 344 E 14 St (btw 1st & 2nd Aves)

Save the date

Battle of the boroughs: And the winner is...

We really appreciate all of our loyal subscribers. So we were curious: which borough was better represented?  We ran the numbers, and...Manhattan has a hefty lead.

Brooklyn: do you want to be better represented? Manhattan: do you want to keep this impressive lead? Regardless of which side of the river you call home, now's the time to get your friends and family to subscribe. Use one of the share buttons here or send them this link: http://bit.ly/l-project-subscribe.

Customer question of the week Q:  How do you plan on installing an escalator at 14th St.-Union Square L train platform when there is already a lot of foot traffic in that area? - Tyler A: The new escalator here will provide a huge circulation benefit. It will really help customers transferring or exiting the station, as well as free up the stairs behind it, making it easier to get onto the platform.

You're right that we'll have to navigate a busy platform to get the work done. But the good thing is that the work area is relatively narrow, so it will actually take up less platform space than our current project to demolish and rebuild the stairs connecting the L and NQRW platforms.

Reminder: Overnight and weekend service changes on the L continue through March 17

Our overnight and weekend work continues on the L during the weeknights and all-day on the weekends between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in March, and so do the service changes.  Use the button below to get the full details and learn how to plan your trip. Maps and details are also available at key connecting stations.

Learn more

Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter

[daveklepper]

Hello. We have a top-four list of the biggest L Project accessibility initiatives, the major expansion of the Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station is open and don't forget to save the date for an upcoming open house. Have a super weekend, and keep sending us your questions. Rendering of elevators going in at 14th Street and Avenue A at the 1st Av Station The 4 major accessibility initiatives in the L Project We keep saying that all of the accessibility work for the L Project is continuing. We did an explainer a few weeks ago about what it takes to make a station accessible. But what exactly are these so-called "elevator projects"? Here they are in one list:   Bedford Av Station A street-level elevator at Bedford Avenue and North 7th Street to the mezzanine level, and a second one from mezzanine to the platform. This currently has a target completion date that aligns with the end of the tunnel rehabilitation work.   1st Av Station Two street-level elevators on either side of 14th Street. These elevators go straight from the street-level to the platform. This currently has a target completion date that aligns with the end of the tunnel rehabilitation work.   14th St/6th Av Station (L platform) This project will provide two elevators from the street to the mezzanine, and another two from the mezzanine to the L train platform. Work will start on or before December 31, 2020 and will complete on or before December 31, 2022.   14th St/6th Av Station (F, M platform) As part of the design and construction of #3 here, we are also designing and planning certain preliminary preparatory work for additional accessibility upgrades to the F and M train platform, including two elevators. With the additional elevators, we'll use the two street elevators that will be installed in #3 to connect the F, M trains mezzanines (both uptown and downtown) from street level and the passageway leading to 14th Street Station on 7th Avenue. Construction of this project is to be included as part of our 2020-2024 Capital Program Plan proposal, which will seek the right approvals and funding to start construction in that five-year time period.. Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station expansion is open On Thursday this week, we opened a major expansion of the Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station. This project started this June and finished right in time for the morning commute. These entrances have been closed since the 90s, and we reopened them to give you another way to access the station, especially helpful if you take the G. The most obvious part of the expansion is the two reopened entrances at Hope Street and Powers Street on either side of Union Avenue (see ribbon-cutting photo op here). But go below ground, and you'll see a lot more of the work. Here are the highlights: Completely refurbished one section of the mezzanine and rebuilt another one Added a total of nine new staircases Opened a new set of turnstiles Installed new digital screens, Help Points, and other signage to help you get around safely Thanks to all of you who came out and helped us celebrate, including the Grand Street BID and all our neighbors, especially four-year old Clara and her mom for being the first official customers! Check out our photos here if you missed the festivities. And special shout-out to The West for giving out free coffee to the first 10 customers, and to our MTA Music Under New York program for the tunes! See the photos Save the date for an open house Last week, we announced the upcoming open houses for the L Project. These are your opportunity to sit with our team one-one-one and get your questions answered.  Save the date here via our Facebook page or use this list to pencil it in your planner: Manhattan: Thursday, March 7, Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Bernard, 328 W 14 St (btw 8th and 9th Aves) Brooklyn: Wednesday, March 13, Williamsburg Northside School, 299 N 7 St (at Meeker Ave) Brooklyn: Tuesday, March 19, Grand Street Campus High School, 850 Grand St (btw Bushwick Ave & Waterbury St) Manhattan: Monday, April 8, 14th St Y, 344 E 14 St (btw 1st & 2nd Aves) Read the announcement Reminder: New Union Sq Station stair project starting March 2 If you're a NQRW or L customer at Union Sq Station, just a reminder that you're getting new stairs between these platforms. That means that starting March 4, you'll have to take a different path to get between these platforms. Look for our signs (like this one here) or a friendly MTA staff member to help you get around the station and make your connections. We'll be using the weekend L service outages to get the work done as fast as possible and are currently estimating completion in early April. Customer question of the week Q:  How often will there be shuttle bus run on weekends? -  R. Nelson A: During the times when L service is impacted, we will be running a new bus, the Williamsburg Link. It will operate on two routes, one clockwise and one counterclockwise. These buses provide connection between: the Bedford Av L, Metropolitan Av-Lorimer St G / L, and Marcy Av J / M. On weekends, buses will run every three minutes. We are still determining weeknight bus frequencies. And FYI, this is double the service we currently do on weekends and weeknights when the L isn't running.  Check out our website for more details on all of our proposed service options. Reminder: Overnight and weekend service changes on the L continue Our overnight and weekend work continues on the L during the weeknights and all-day on the weekends between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in February and March, and so do the service changes.  Use the button below to get the full details and learn how to plan your trip. Maps and details are also available at key connecting stations. Learn more Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter

[daveklepper]

Hello. An official, new slate of transportation options to add to the continued L service is here. So is an invite to join us at our open houses so you can ask us questions about how it will work for you. And a preemptive explainer on a transit term you'll be hearing a lot—"single-tracking operation." Have a great weekend and see you at an open house soon.

Explainer: What is a "single-tracking operation"?

Under the revised approach to the L Project, on nights and weekends, we can both keep L train service running AND keep working on the other track. This "single-tracking operation" is one of the many benefits of modern signaling, specifically a bi-directional capability that allows trains to operate in either direction on one track. Put simply, we're running trains two-ways on one track. For the L Project, we're proposing to run this single-track L between Manhattan and Brooklyn, with a bonus L train running on the Brooklyn side (transit speak: "overlay"). Here's some of the detail on how it works (visual learners, see above): | A train runs in one direction up until a point called an "interlocking." These are certain spots in our system where we can switch trains from one track to another. So when we talk about "switch work," these are the places we're working. | Once the trains are cleared over the interlocking, there's a countdown of several seconds before the next train is given the go-ahead to move across in the opposite direction. | Because of how long it takes trains to run over the single track section (between the interlockings), we can only run one train every 20 minutes in each direction between Brooklyn and Manhattan.   | On the Brooklyn side, the bonus “overlay” L won’t enter the single track section. Rather, it will only go to Lorimer St and then change directions. This way, L customers in Brooklyn will have an L train every 10 minutes. | For this to work with the most consistent times between trains possible, the ideal situation is when a train is waiting at the point where the two-track part ends right as another train is crossing over the interlocking. | Seconds matter even more here than our usual operation, so even something like one person holding a door can have a big impact on this flow. We're definitely not alone in running this kind of operation, but it is unique with the volume of trains we have. Many railroads in North America actually are just really long single-track operations—most are freight systems that run one train in one-direction, and then another in the opposite direction, with trains passing each other on two-track sections. The difference is that they generally plan and measure their operations in trains per day instead of per hour like we do.  Have more questions? Use the button below.

Send your questions

L service continues + extra bus/subway/free transfers = this map

The revised approach to the L Project means we could keep L service running. So we dug into the data to come up with a brand new proposal for alternate service so you have options to get around. While most of you will be able to take the L as normal, we still want your feedback on this new service plan. So check out the above map and click the button below for the details, then come meet us at an open house (see list below) or give us feedback online.

Preview the plan

Join us at an open house What's the latest update on construction? What does a "peak time" mean for the L train? What's the fastest way for me to go from the intersection of Lorimer Street and Metropolitan Avenue in Brooklyn to Union Square at 3 p.m. on a Tuesday in June? (Spoiler: the L.) Gather your questions and your neighbors and come meet us at our upcoming L Project open houses. Doors will be open from 6-8 p.m. and you can come by any time. Save the dates: Manhattan: Thursday, March 7, Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Bernard, 328 W 14 St (btw 8th and 9th Aves) Brooklyn: Wednesday, March 13, Williamsburg Northside School, 299 N 7 St (at Meeker Ave) Brooklyn: Tuesday, March 19, Grand Street Campus High School, 850 Grand St (btw Bushwick Ave & Waterbury St) Manhattan: Monday, April 8, 14th St Y, 344 E 14 St (btw 1st & 2nd Aves)

Read the announcement

Construction update: New Union Sq Station stair project starting March 2 Remember when we said the L Project was a lot more than just the tunnel work?

Enter the stairs between the NQRW and L platforms at Union Sq Station. Like you, we know the wacky way they face each other just doesn't work anymore with current ridership. So we're demolishing them and building new ones. The redesigned stairs will make it easier for you to get up and down between the L and NQRW platforms and quickly find a less busy spot on the platform. Summary: less time stuck on stairs = more likely you'll make the train. Starting Monday, March 4, those stairs won't be available, so look for signs or a friendly MTA staff member to help you get around the station and make your connections. We'll be using the weekend L service outages to get the work done as fast as possible. The new stairs (AKA your faster connection) will be ready for you at the end of the month—we'll update you with specific timing as the project progresses.

Customer question of the week Q:  Will the new select bus run only when the L train is shut down on nights and weekends or will it just run with the regular buses that are already on that route? Especially 14th Street. There is a lot of buses already so many that they are often back to back and stuck in slow traffics due to how many there are. - Pennline

A: We agree that buses have to move faster, and that's why we've committed to operating a new Select Bus Service route on 14th St in 2019. This is separate from the L Project, but we're looking holistically at this as something that will help get people around during that time and beyond. We're working with NYC DOT on next steps, including what bus priority will look like and other enforcement measures. And once the service is up and running, it will run on a normal schedule regardless of what's happening with the L train. Additionally for the L Project, we've proposed running extra M14A service during the impacted times, which are overnights and weekends during the tunnel rehabilitation. Go here for more details on this and the other service ideas we have to support the L service changes.

Reminder: Overnight and weekend service changes on the L continue

Our overnight and weekend work continues on the L during the weeknights and all-day on the weekends between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in February and March, and so do the service changes.  Use the button below to get the full details and learn how to plan your trip. Maps and details are also available at key connecting stations.

Learn more

Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter

[daveklepper]

Hello. This week, we talked with your local elected officials, community board leaders and advocate groups to share where we're at with the revised approach to the L Project. The headlines: construction is still progressing right now on all the non-tunnel rehabilitation pieces, and we've created a whole new service plan to go with the revised scenario (in which L train service will continue running normally for the majority of customers). We'll be updating our website soon with the new information, including the presentation that was shared this week. In the meantime, other updates are below. Have a great weekend.

The moving walkway, on the right side of the photo, was removed last summer.

About that moving walkway at Court Sq Station...

We’ve gotten this question a few times now, so we’re dedicating more space to it. As you know, we removed a moving walkway last summer to create more space in the Court Sq Station passageway, and we aren’t planning to bring it back. Here’s why: We did an analysis and found that the 350-ft moving walkway was actually hurting pedestrian flow. It could only move in one direction and shaved just 9 seconds if you used it in the most efficient way possible. It also cost more than $200,000 a year to maintain.   But we also put some new improvements in, too, to help you speed up your commute. As you may have noticed, we added two new sets of stairs, put in new turnstiles and widened two existing stairs at the G platform. We even added railings on the narrow part of the platform to increase safety. Got any more questions about the station updates? Use the button below.

Send your questions

Non-L Project update: Select Bus Service is coming to 14th Street in Manhattan

It's not the L Project. Or the L. But it partially would run right above where the L is, so we thought you'd be interested to get the news that we've committed to operating a permanent Select Bus Service on 14th Street in Manhattan. We'll be partnering with NYC DOT on the planning, design and implementation of bus priority along the route including bus lanes on 14th Street. Our next step is to do a proper community input process on our initial proposed route (see above photo), so more to come.

L Project, IRL This newsletter is great. But some situations call for a good face-to-face meet-up. With the proposed changes to the L Project's tunnel rehabilitation, and our new draft service plan, we're going to be taking our show on the road to talk about it with you in-person.

Next week, we'll be at Manhattan Community Board 4's Transportation Committee Meeting to start, and we'll continue to be at other community board meetings as requested. We're also going to be doing our own open houses. Look for save the dates on posters and screens in your local stations and online soon!

Send us your questions and "what's this all about?" photos We didn't get any questions or photos from you last week to feature, and we know it's not because you aren't curious. For the newbies, just a reminder on the two ways to ask your question (and potentially get it answered and featured) in the newsletter:

1. Have a thoughtful question about the L Project. We like all questions, but especially the ones that can help your fellow customers, too. Submit it here. 2. Snap a photo of something related to the L Project. Write a corresponding question asking what you want to know. Submit it here.

Don't forget: Weekend service changes on the L extend to Monday for Presidents’ Day

Our overnight and weekend work continues on the L during the weeknights and all-day on the weekends between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in February and March, and so do the service changes. Don't forget that Monday is a holiday, so service changes will extend for an extra day this week. Thanks for bearing with us as we make long-term reliability improvements to track, switches and signaling so that our track will be safer and trains will run faster and smoother, and that we’ll have the right signals to run the one-track operation come April.

Use the button below to get the full details and learn how to plan your trip. Or, stop by one of the key connecting stations (like Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs) to pick up a handy map (see photo above).

Learn more

Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter

[daveklepper]

Hello. Why does it take awhile to open old station entrances? After we featured the update on Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station last week, this was a popular question. Your answer on this is below, as is the latest on the reported "L smell" (unrelated to the L Project, but certainly related to your interests as L train advocates). Have a super weekend, and please remind your friends, family and neighbors to use the special M service, shuttle buses and other alternate service to get around this weekend while we work on the L line. In-progress: New entrances at Metropolitan Av-Lorimer St Station Explainer: Why is reopening old stairways more than just a good cleanup job? Our L Project station improvements will make it easier for you to get in and out of stations. The old Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St staircases are slated to open at the end of the month, as mentioned in our last issue. Which prompted a few of you to ask: why does it seem to take awhile to open an old entrance? Well, it involves a lot more than slapping on a new coat of paint. For starters, updating the stairs themselves means bringing them to current standards (yes, this is a thing): Adding treads on stairs, evening out steps and making sure there’s enough overhead clearance from any loose hanging wires are just a few pieces that have to get done. Then we have to install the stuff you'd expect, like turnstiles, signage, security cameras, fare machines and Help Points. Once these pieces are in place, we have to wire them and make sure they work together. Even before we make our plan, we do an analysis of the station, looking at a number of factors. For example, before we got to work on the Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St entrances, we analyzed "egress capacity," or making sure there are enough exits for customers to quickly get out. Here, the large mezzanine area formed from these entrances means potentially many more people to evacuate in case of an emergency, but our analysis showed that the two exits meet the need. We also have to design communication systems and work with neighboring businesses which may be affected by the construction. All these moving pieces, among others, requires more than 15 internal teams coming together. The entrance openings for the stairs at Hope Street and Powers Street for the Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station will be well-attended! ICYMI: That L smell This week, some of our customers and workers experienced a gas-type smell on the L train in Brooklyn. Safety is our number one priority and as soon as this was detected we immediately mobilized a comprehensive response with NYCT, the Metropolitan Transit Authority, FDNY, and the New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Health (DOH) to ensure riders and workers were not at risk.  We quickly installed ventilation measures that effectively worked to control odors and have continued ongoing air quality monitoring in the area which guided our response effort.  Independent labs have analyzed samples collected by NYCT and DEC and determined that the substance is consistent with diesel or #2 fuel oil, and ongoing cleanup efforts are successfully removing the oil from the area. DEC is leading an investigation to identify and cleanup the source of the oil, and we do not anticipate any further impacts on service in the area.    We recognize these odors were unpleasant and apologize to customers and employees for the inconvenience. We will continue to keep you informed as our response continues.  "What's this all about?" Our friends and family always ask us that question. Now you can, too! In addition to the customer question of the week, we're going to start incorporating photo features from you, too. Here's how it works: 1. See something related to the L Project that you want to know more about. 2. Snap a photo capturing the item. 3. Use the link in the button below (bookmark it) to submit it. 4. Continue reading this weekly newsletter to see if your photo makes it in. P.S. The above photo was included in the last edition, but in case you missed it and are wondering "what's this all about?," it's the construction site for the new stair opening at Hope Street for the Metropolitan Av/Lorimer St Station. Submit here Reminder: Plan ahead for weekend and weeknight service changes on the L Our overnight and weekend work continues on the L during the weeknights and all-day on the weekends between 8 Av and Broadway Junction in February and March, and so do the service changes. Specifically, we're doing long-term reliability improvements to track, switches and signaling so that our track will be safer and trains will run faster and smoother, and that we’ll have the right signals to run the one-track operation come April.  Use the button below to get the full details and learn how to plan your trip. Or, if you're feeling more analog, stop by one of the key connecting stations (like Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs) to pick up a handy map (see photo above). Learn more Customer question of the week Q: Any idea when the new 1st Avenue stop entrance at Avenue A will open? - Sean A: This entrance's timing is part of what we're revisiting under the revised project approach. Even though the tunnel work is a separate piece, there are some things that are dependent on each other, and we want to get the schedule right. More to come on this in the next few weeks. Learn more and stay connected: Website: Get the latest on the L Project Contact us: Share your input Service change round-up: Review service changes on the L Get your friends, family and neighbors up-to-speed: Share this link to subscribe to the newsletter Copyright © 2019 Metropolitan Transportation Authority New York City Transit, All rights reserve Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

 

 

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