In response to long commute times and restricted transportation options in South Brooklyn, Assemblymember Pamela Harris (Coney Island, Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights), along with bipartisan colleagues, transportation advocates and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, held a press conference calling for the restoration of the F express line, which would alleviate congestion and provide transportation options for more residents.
“Our families need access to affordable and reliable public transportation – there’s no question about it,” said Harris. “For more than 30 years Brooklyn commuters have been neglected, and we’ve dealt with excuses and delays. It’s time the MTA step up because our voices will only be getting louder: Bring back the F express.”
The F train used to run express to stops at Bergen Street, Church Avenue, Ditmas Avenue, Kings Highway, West 8th Street and Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue. However, in the late 1970s-early 1980s repair work and budget issues caused for the discontinuation of the F-Express service. Advocates noted that the restoration of the F line wouldn’t need new lines considering the middle tracks are already existent.
“Express F train service would significantly improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers, particularly the residents of southern Brooklyn, who are starved for transit options,” said Carlo Scissura, the president and CEO of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The infrastructure is already in place to institute this service, so it makes no sense to deprive people of it. F express service could reduce commute times by up to 45 minutes, making vibrant communities like Coney Island and Gravesend more accessible and helping local businesses in the area.”
Residents and advocates are also growing frustrated with the MTA’s inaction. For years, residents have been awaiting a feasibility study on restoring F service; with promises over the last year that the release of the study is imminent. Just last month, 14 city and state local officials sent an open letter to MTA Chair Thomas Prendergast demanding to know the status of the study.
“Brooklyn residents rely heavily on mass transit to travel throughout the city,” said Bay Ridge Senator Martin J. Golden. “During my conversations with commuters a top concern is the lack of express train service and limited transportation alternatives. Restoring the F Train express line would greatly improve travel time and provide a more reliable transit option for Brooklyn commuters.”
“It is important that we push for the timely restoration of the F express train service so that constituents in our districts are able to have a faster, cost effective commute with fewer transfers. This process has been prolonged for too many years now, and it is time that we move forward to make the restoration of the F express subway service a real priority, “said Flatbush/Midwood Senator Kevin Parker.
“I thank Assemblymember Harris for her leadership and join her in calling for the Transit Authority’s release of the study data on the F Express. The F train is a key route through my district and is increasingly and many believe, unsafely, crowded. The F Express could provide improved service and needed relief from overcrowding. If the study was done, the results should be released to the public. It’s as simple as that,” said Boerum Hill/Downtown Brooklyn Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon.
“From unnecessarily lengthy commutes to Manhattan to lack of accessibility for seniors and people with disabilities, southern Brooklyn historically has suffered from a critical lack of attention by the MTA to remedy these long-existing deficiencies,” Sheepshead Bay Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz said. “The failure to implement express service on the F line has moved well beyond the point of an acceptable delay. I urge the MTA to end the years of empty promises and restore this time-saving service enhancement.”
“Especially during this time, with the closure and disruption of service at many of the “N” line stations, the F express will reduce the rush hour riding time to and from Manhattan for many families,” said Bensonhurst/Bath Beach Assemblyman William Colton. “Public transit impacts the lives of neighborhood families and plays a critical role in the life and vitality of our city. This change will help to greatly enhance the vitality of the City by improving the quality of life in Southern Brooklyn.”
Additionally, Harris noted that the lack of elevators limit the ability of many, including seniors and disabled persons, to use the F train at the Neptune Avenue station in the West Brighton area of South Brooklyn. Harris will continue fighting to ensure that basic transportation needs are met and MTA funds are diverted to provide critical maintenance to our transportation system.
MTA Spokesperson Kevin Ortiz responded that the agency has studied the pros and cons, but have not yet had a chance to present the issue to the new Transit President, Ronnie Hakim.
“Once finalized, we will be happy to meet with all stakeholders to discuss our findings,” said Ortiz.
