MTA Approves $2 Billion Contract for Second Avenue Subway Expansion
The MTA took a significant step on Monday by awarding a contract nearing $2 billion for the ongoing Second Avenue Subway project. This hefty sum, transport authorities insist, is a wise investment, even considering the challenges facing the current system.
When asked why a new subway line is being built instead of fixing existing trains and tunnels, Transportation Commissioner Jan Noliver pointed out that both initiatives are happening simultaneously.
“I don’t really agree with that line of questioning,” said MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. “The MTA Capital Program has its focus on both maintaining current services and extending the system.”
Lieber expressed optimism about the substantial contract amount, which is around $1.9 billion. He referred to it as “big numbers, significant investments.”
The approved deal, which will see work from Connect Plus Plants—a collaboration between Halmar International and FCC Construction—covers the construction of tunnels between 116th Avenue and 125th Avenue, along with new stations in East Harlem.
Initial streetwork will kick off later this year, with tunneling slated for 2026 and 2027.
This vote represents a crucial milestone in Phase 2 of the overall $7.7 billion MTA Second Avenue Subway project.
“We’re moving as swiftly as we can,” declared Governor Kathy Hochul. “The days of just making promises are over.”
Phase 1 of the project, completed in 2017, involved adding three stops on the Q-line and cost $4.45 billion over ten years.
Phase 2 will extend the Q-line by 1.5 miles, creating three new stations anticipated to open by 2032. The cost, which comes to about $4 billion per mile, positions it among the world’s most costly subways.
Nonetheless, Lieber asserted that the investment is justifiable when considering the cost per rider for heavy rail projects in the U.S.
MTA officials appeared somewhat reserved about the massive price tag but emphasized potential savings. They plan to utilize an existing tunnel from the 1970s for the new 116th Avenue station, which they believe will cut costs by $500 million.
Jamie Torres-Springer, president of MTA Construction & Development, noted that using smaller tunnel crews could also save around $100 million. “So far, the project is running generally within budget,” he remarked regarding Phase 2.
The MTA recently shared renderings that depict the envisioned 125th Avenue station.
This futuristic station design includes a ventilated space, maximizes natural light through a largely glass façade, and features an entrance to Park Avenue.
Additional renderings also revealed plans for the entrance to 106th Avenue Station, the third planned stop in Phase 2, though that contract will be awarded separately.
