By Philip Newman
Queens-bound subway platforms at 88th and 104th streets in Ozone Park are shutting down along Liberty Avenue, but in the end inconvenienced straphangers will be rewarded with refurnished and modernized stations on the A line.
The two stations are actually just the first of five stations to be done over in the $39 million project, which also includes stations at Rockaway Boulevard and 80th and 111th streets.
The stations’ Queens-bound platforms will be out of service from May 12 through Aug. 18.
Regular Manhattan-bound A train subway service will be available.
The work involved in the stations includes repairs of mezzanines to platform stairs, mezzanine floors, doors and windows as well as interior and exterior walls. All stations will be painted and canopies, windscreen panels and railings will be replaced.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said work on the second phase of the project has been tentatively scheduled for September.
MTA officials expressed appreciation to subway patrons for their patience while the work goes on and recommended consulting Trip Planner at mta.info for help in traveling during the construction.
Reach contributing writer Philip Newman by e-mail at timesledgernews@cnglocal.com or phone at 718-260-4536.
