MTA Moves Forward with Second Avenue Subway Extension in East Harlem

NEW YORK, NY — The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has identified properties in East Harlem still needed to expand the Second Avenue Subway. Court records reveal several lots and buildings that are essential for constructing tunnels to new stations at 106th, 116th, and 125th streets.

This recent filing represents a significant step in the $7 billion subway extension project, which is partially funded by revenue from congestion pricing. In August, the MTA board approved a $1.9 billion plan to bore new tunnels north from 115th Street, restoring an existing underground segment.

Jamie Torres-Springer, president of MTA Construction & Development, stated progress is being made in acquiring these vital properties. “We’re working our way through it,” Torres-Springer remarked during the August board meeting. “It’s a handful of properties that we haven’t yet acquired, and there’s also a set of easements we require.”

Under New York’s Public Authorities Law, the MTA can obtain properties through condemnation that are necessary for transit facilities. This includes certain structures in the path of boring tunnels along Second Avenue and curving westward along 125th Street.

Among the properties of concern is a community center for the Church of Scientology of Harlem, which opened in 2016. A spokesperson for the church confirmed they are in discussions with the MTA regarding a sub-surface easement but assured that the center will remain open during construction.

The latest use of eminent domain will involve the relocation of four commercial tenants from a one-story building. This follows earlier acquisitions for a “launch box” between East 119th and 120th streets.

Hector Quiroz, co-owner of Lechonera La Isla, a Puerto Rican restaurant affected by the construction, recalls similar notices from 2003. “I guess it’s finally getting here,” Quiroz said, reflecting on years of hearing about the subway extension.

Tewelde Debessay, owner of Melover Wine & Spirit, expressed optimism regarding the changes that the Q line extension could bring to the neighborhood. “If I see anything that’s changed for the better, then that’s a good thing,” he said.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that tunnel-boring machines, each weighing 750 tons, are expected to begin work between 35 and 120 feet beneath Second Avenue in 2027. She affirmed that the project aims for a September 2032 start date for passenger service.

MTA officials previously indicated that property acquisitions for the initial phase of the subway extension caused delays at existing stations. Janno Lieber, MTA chairperson, emphasized that they are currently ahead of schedule in property acquisitions compared to previous projects.

Local residents in East Harlem are hopeful about enduring the upcoming construction. Andrea Cerda, who lives in one of the buildings needed for the project, expressed her concerns. “It’s like something going right through your backyard,” she said. “We can only hope it’s not too messy.”