Pol: Revitalize Defunct Tracks
Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder announced that he will be delivering his petition to rehabilitate the Rockaway Beach Rail Line, a move that would expand transportation options for Queens residents, to the governor, Port Authority and the MTA.
So far, he noted, the petition has garnered nearly 2,500 signatures since its launch on May 1.
“It is no secret that public transportation options for Southern Queens and Rockaway are severely limited,” said Goldfeder. “Thousands of residents from across Queens have already shown their support for complete restoration of the Rockaway Beach Rail Line as an efficient transportation alternative to the current subway lines, and I encourage everyone who hasn’t already done so, to sign our petition right away to ensure the governor hears your voice.”
Created at the turn of the century, the Rockaway Beach Rail Line was owned and operated by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Strategically placed within a major network of trains throughout New York City, the assemblyman noted, the rail line provided residents with access to other parts of Queens and the rest of the city.
Despite limited transportation options, Goldfeder observed, Queens has recently seen a large population and construction boom. The opening of the Resorts World Casino at the Aqueduct Racetrack, the renaissance of the Rockaway Peninsula as a tourist haven and the growing population, all indicate that the restoration of this rail line is needed now more than ever.
Once rehabilitated, there would be an increase in the number of visitors to Queens, which would help create stable jobs and allow small businesses to thrive, Goldfeder added.
“Increased public transportation would be welcomed news to all the residents and businesses of Queens and the city,” Goldfeder said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure that rehabilitation of the Rockaway Beach Rail becomes a reality for our community.”
To view the petition, visit www.rockawaybeachrail.com.
