New York City, USA – G train riders in New York City should prepare for a challenging summer as the MTA announces a major construction project that will result in significant disruptions to the line until early September. The Crosstown Line, which serves around 160,000 commuters daily, will see three phases of closures, affecting various segments of the line from June to September.
The closures, aimed at making long-overdue improvements to the G line, will include the replacement of 30 miles of track, upgrading of outdated 1930s technology signals, laying new cables, and replacing over a dozen switches known to cause delays. These essential upgrades are vital for the overall improvement of the G line service, despite the inconvenience caused to commuters.
To accommodate affected riders during the construction period, free shuttle buses will be provided along the closed segments. Additionally, the MTA has coordinated with the city Department of Transportation to ensure smooth operations of the shuttle buses by clearing intersections and adding truck loading zones to prevent double parking along the designated routes. In a bid to encourage alternative transportation options, the agency has partnered with Citi Bike to offer free rides to commuters using the code “GTRAIN24” during the shutdown.
While the MTA promises faster and frequent service on the G line post the construction, commuters remain skeptical about the efficacy of the shuttle buses provided. Many have expressed concerns about the inconvenience and lengthier travel times associated with using the shuttles, with some opting for alternative modes of transportation such as biking to work instead.
Despite the temporary inconvenience, the improvements to the G line are expected to yield long-term benefits, including the possibility of full-length trains on the line in the future. While more closures are anticipated in the coming months, officials are optimistic about the positive impact these upgrades will have on the overall efficiency and reliability of the G line service in the years to come.