Calling it a great psychological lift for everyone, Maria A. Thomson is excited about the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) plans to rehabilitate the elevated “J” train.
“After about 18 years, we’re grateful it’s finally coming to fruition,” said Thomson, of the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation.
The “J,” which runs above Jamaica Avenue, has long been an eyesore, said Wendy Bowne, President of the Richmond Hill Block Association.
“We’ve been trying for probably 20 years [to have it fixed,” she said.
In fact, just last summer, City Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley, Senator Joseph Addabbo and Thomson stood at the Woodhaven Station to bring attention to the needed repairs.
“For far too long the Jamaica Avenue train line has been neglected,” said Crowley at the time. “We have safety concerns that need to be address that should have been addressed years ago.”
“When it rains, the water gets into the station and the painting cracks from the walls,” said a 10-year area resident. “The stairs are very dangerous.”
Now, the MTA has said that it will repair and repaint, in a forest green, part of the line.
The more than two-year project, which could cost up to $30 million, is slated to begin next year, and will include repairs to access stations, painting, and rehabbing steel girders.
“The Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation, with all the support of local organization and the Business Improvement District, has always begged for them to paint the el,” said Thomson. “The avenue looks good – we clean it, keep it nice, but when you look up, it’s deteriorating and embarrassing. It takes away from the feeling that it’s a thriving neighborhood with great businesses.”
Thomson says that area merchants are “holding their own” despite the economy, and that there must be careful planning with the MTA “so it doesn’t affect business.”
“It’s an all-around win-win,” she said.
