Queens-Midtown Tunnel’s 37th Street entrance reopened
In an effort to help ease traffic congestion along 2nd Avenue, MTA Bridges and Tunnels is reopening the 37th Street entrance to the Queens-Midtown Tunnel to cars weekdays between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m.
“Second Avenue is one of the city’s most heavily traveled thoroughfares and traffic frequently backs up for blocks with cars trying to access the Queens-bound tunnel,” said tunnel General Manager Renee Shepherd. “We believe this change will ultimately save motorists time while alleviating congestion along the avenue.”
This means that during the week between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m., cars driving south along 2nd Avenue can make a right turn on East 40th Street or East 38th Street, another quick right onto Tunnel Approach Street and continue straight through the traffic light and into the tunnel.
From 1st Avenue, drivers who turn left onto East 37th Street will be able to use the 37th Street entrance instead of having to drive further to Second Avenue and merge into traffic there. Motorists can also choose to make a left turn onto East 39th Street and another quick left onto Tunnel Approach Street, then go through the traffic light and into the tunnel.
New signs will be in place to direct motorists. Use of the East 37th Street entrance is limited to cars only. Trucks and buses must continue to use the East 36th Street entrance to the tunnel from 2nd Avenue.
