In a surprise move, Governor Kathy Hochul is throwing her weight behind a bold westward expansion for the Second Avenue Subway, potentially rerouting the Q train across 125th Street and into West Harlem. This plan marks a significant departure from the century-old vision of pushing the line further downtown on the East Side.

Hochul's proposal envisions three new stations along 125th Street, culminating at Broadway, a shift that promises to dramatically improve transit access for Harlem. However, the price tag is hefty: an estimated $8.1 billion, including the cost of a new fleet of trains. This comes even as construction hasn't yet begun on the Second Avenue Subway's second phase, extending northward into East Harlem.

While questions remain about funding and feasibility, the MTA is expected to launch a six-month study to assess the viability of the West Harlem extension. The potential benefits are undeniable: connecting the Q to seven other train lines and shaving precious minutes off commutes for an estimated 239,700 daily riders by 2045.ncluding securing funding and navigating potential legal hurdles.

Hochul's bold vision for the Second Avenue Subway and her broader push for transit-centric development could reshape how New Yorkers move around their city. But, as with any major infrastructure project, navigating the financial and logistical complexities will be critical to turning this ambitious blueprint into reality.

As Seen In Harlem