NYC's Tallest Subway Station at Last Receives Long-Awaited Elevator Installation
The Smith-9th Street subway station in Brooklyn, the tallest in New York City and one of the tallest in the world, is set to receive a significant upgrade with the installation of elevators. This project forms part of the MTA's 2025-2029 Capital Plan, aiming to enhance the accessibility of the city's subway system.
Currently, the station lacks efficient escalators and elevators, making it challenging for people with disabilities, seniors, and those with strollers or luggage to access the platform, which is nearly 90 feet above ground. The installation of elevators will address these longstanding accessibility issues, transforming the station into a more inclusive space for thousands of daily riders.
The MTA's $68.4 billion capital plan, approved for the period 2025 to 2029, includes the elevator installation at the Smith-9th Street subway station. However, the MTA has not provided a firm timeline for when the elevators will be operational.
The upgrade at the Smith-9th Street subway station is not just a technical upgrade but a crucial lifeline for entire neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Being the closest subway station for Red Hook NYCHA residents, the installation of elevators will significantly improve their daily commuting struggles.
This project is part of a broader MTA effort expected to increase overall subway system accessibility to 50%, benefiting thousands of riders across the city. Quemuel Arroyo, MTA's Chief Accessibility Officer, refers to the plan as a borough-wide win, with 36 new ADA-compliant stations coming in Brooklyn.
The upgrades will help nearly 70% of New York City Transit riders get around more easily. The MTA's plan includes the addition of elevators to over 36 stations in Brooklyn, with Smith-9th Street being the first of these new ADA-compliant stations. The plan also includes the addition of elevators to over 60 subway stations citywide.
Assemblymember Simon considers the installation of elevators at the Smith-9th Street subway station as a victory decades in the making and a step towards transit equity. Senator Andrew Gounardes, who has championed subway accessibility for years, stated that the installation of elevators at the Smith-9th Street subway station will finally change the daily struggle for riders.
In conclusion, the installation of elevators at the Smith-9th Street subway station is a significant step towards making the subway system more accessible for all New Yorkers. The congestion pricing funds are contributing to these improvements, helping to fuel the accessibility revolution in Brooklyn and pushing NYC's subway system towards over 50% accessibility.
