The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has just opened a new subway station, marking the first time that the New York City subway system has been expanded in 26 years.
The new 34 St-Hudson Yards station, which is located at West 34th Street and 11th Avenue, adds to the 7 Subway Line, which previously stretched from Times Square to Flushing Main Street in Queens.
The new station, which offers access to the Jacob Javits Convention Center, the High Line and the newly opened Hudson River Park, is the only station south of 59th Street that provides service west of Ninth Avenue.
“This station is the centerpiece of an ambitious plan to make the far West Side of Manhattan a top-tier destination for residents and visitors alike while meeting the daily needs of millions of subway riders, and one that is poised to meet future needs,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “It is a clear example of how the City and State can work together to support a transit network that drives our regional economy.”
The $2.42 billion project, which extends the 7 Subway Line by 1.5 miles, is the first new station added to the subway system since the MTA opened the Lexington Av-63 St, Roosevelt Island, and 21 St-Queensbridge stations in 1989.
Funding for the project included a $2.1 billion investment from the city and a $53 million contribution from the MTA.
“It’s an expression of this city’s capacity to do big things,” said New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. “The 7 Subway Line Icon train extension is going to anchor new growth and opportunity on the West Side, and will improve the commutes of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.”
The station is designed to handle as many as 25,000 riders during peak hours. Once Hudson Yards is completed, the station is expected to become the busiest single line station in the subway system.
In a press release, the city said that the station features high-end finishes such as stainless steel tile wall panels, painted steel ceiling panels, granite floor tile and energy efficient lighting. It is also air-tempered, which means that it will have a year-round temperature on the lower mezzanine and platform levels between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
“This new, modern station will be the lifeline of Manhattan’s newest neighborhood. It will make it possible for thousands of residents, employees and visitors to get to Hudson Yards easily and quickly. Without the extension, this new development would not have been possible, ”said MTA Capital Construction President Michael Horodniceanu.
