The long-anticipated light rail connection between Brooklyn and Queens, dubbed the Interborough Express (IBX), has officially moved into its active development phase, as announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. This significant milestone comes after years of proposals and discussions dating back nearly three decades. Hochul celebrated the MTA board’s recent decision to advance the $5.5 billion project into the design phase, indicating that the 14-mile light rail line would enhance connectivity between the two boroughs by converting an underutilized freight line into rapid transit service. The project is expected to be completed no earlier than the 2030s, offering a long-awaited solution to transportation challenges in this densely populated region.
Hochul emphasized the IBX would create a much-needed transit option by enabling faster, more efficient travel. An end-to-end journey along the planned route is projected to take only 32 minutes, which offers nearly a 30-minute reduction in travel time for commuters making round trips. This improvement could give riders back valuable time in their lives, significantly enhancing the day-to-day experience for Brooklyn and Queens residents. The project aims to facilitate seamless travel without the necessity of routing through Manhattan, fundamentally transforming the transit landscape for these outer boroughs.
The proposed light rail line will feature 19 stations, connecting a staggering 17 subway lines, 50 bus routes, and two Long Island Rail Road hubs along its trajectory from Sunset Park in Brooklyn to Jackson Heights in Queens. This extensive integration is set to mark a historic achievement as the first light rail system in New York City, addressing the longstanding issue of inadequate public transportation choices in these neighborhoods. The IBX will not only improve local accessibility but also signal a significant step toward modernizing and expanding the city’s transit options.
Recent drone footage has provided a visual perspective of the proposed IBX route, showcasing the rail beds that have been largely neglected over the years. However, the path poses various engineering and logistical challenges, including several bridges and tunnels that must be navigated. Despite the challenges, Hochul has expressed optimism regarding the project, reiterating that it marks a transformative moment for the city’s public transit system. With a substantial state investment of $2.75 billion committed so far, the design and engineering phase, led by the firms Jacobs and HDR under a $166 million contract, is set to begin. This stage will involve crucial planning for the project, focusing on the development of stations, tracks, signals, and vehicles.
As the design phase progresses, MTA officials are preparing for the construction phase, which is the final step prior to breaking ground on the project. Hochul has reiterated the importance of improving travel experiences for New Yorkers, particularly for those frequently commuting between Brooklyn and Queens. By joining the two boroughs more effectively, the IBX demonstrates a commitment to enhancing public transit options outside Manhattan, allowing residents better access to family, work, and other essential services.
In conclusion, the Interborough Express represents a transformative investment in New York City’s transit infrastructure. Expected to take shape over the coming decade, the project embodies a long-overdue response to the growing transportation demands of Brooklyn and Queens residents. As planning and design efforts ramp up, officials are hopeful that the IBX will not only reduce travel times significantly but also create more equitable access to transportation across the city, ultimately improving the quality of life for countless commuters.
