The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced today that it has completed its revamp of the Beach 67th Street subway station in the Rockaways and that it is now accessible for all riders.
The Beach 67th Street subway station is now fully accessible to all passengers, with the MTA installing two new elevators. The elevators go from the street to the mezzanine and platform, making it easier for passengers with mobility issues, disabilities and those with strollers or bulky items like beach umbrellas and surfboards to access the subway.
The Beach 67th Street subway station, also known as the Beach 67th Street–Arverne By The Sea station, features two tracks and two side platforms and is served by the A train. This station is situated between Beach 60th Street to the east (railroad south) and Broad Channel to the west (railroad north).
The newly installed elevators are equipped with several safety features, including fire alarms, smoke detectors, and in-cab cameras to ensure passenger security. Each elevator also features an emergency two-way communication system, allowing passengers to communicate with dispatchers in case of emergencies, improving accessibility for those with hearing or speech disabilities.
The MTA unveiled plans to make the station ADA-accessible in 2019 as a significant component of the agency’s 2020–2024 Capital Program. Subsequently, a contract for the installation of two elevators at the station was awarded in December 2020.
The project at Beach 67th Street received full funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). It is part of a broader effort to enhance accessibility across the subway system.
The 2020-2024 MTA Capital Plan includes a $5.2 billion investment to make 67 subway stations ADA accessible.
Elected officials and community leaders have commended the project’s completion, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all residents and visitors. They recognize the project as a significant step towards making public transportation more inclusive.
Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, who represents Far Rockaway and is Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure committee, acknowledged the historical disparities in investment and commended the MTA for addressing them, “We know that through the years, our public transit system has too often failed New Yorkers with disabilities, but the MTA is helping to remedy those historic inequalities with projects like this one.”
“These investments help ensure Rockaway residents can access public transportation to get off the Peninsula.” said Brooks-Powers.
