Empire State Review Team 
New York City, May 1, 2024 — In a moment hailed as a transformative step for New York City’s transit future, Mayor Eric Adams joined MTA Chair Janno Lieber and other city officials today to break ground on the long-awaited Phase II of the Second Avenue Subway project. The ceremonial event, held at 125th Street in East Harlem, marks the beginning of a project decades in the making and aimed at delivering much-needed relief to transit deserts in one of the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.
The $7.7 billion expansion will extend the Second Avenue line northward from its current terminus at 96th Street to 125th Street, with new stations planned at 106th, 116th, and 125th Streets. The project, funded by federal grants, state contributions, and MTA bonds, is slated for completion by 2031.
“This is more than a subway line — it’s a lifeline for the people of East Harlem,” said Mayor Adams. “It connects communities, creates jobs, and ensures our city keeps moving forward.”
The project is expected to generate over 15,000 construction jobs and improve access for tens of thousands of Harlem residents, many of whom currently rely on buses or overcrowded subway lines for their commutes. The extension will also integrate with Metro-North Railroad at 125th Street, further enhancing the city’s transit network.
A Community in Need
East Harlem, a historically underserved area, has long struggled with limited transit options. Advocacy groups have called for increased investment in transportation infrastructure to reduce commute times and improve access to jobs and services for local residents.
“This is a win for transit equity,” said Deborah Espinal, a community activist and lifelong Harlem resident. “It’s not just about trains; it’s about connecting us to opportunity.”
The Second Avenue Subway, first envisioned in 1929, has been plagued by delays and budget shortfalls for nearly a century. While Phase I, completed in 2017, brought relief to the Upper East Side, residents of Harlem have waited anxiously for the line to reach their neighborhood.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, the project faces its share of challenges. Rising construction costs, potential delays, and the need to minimize disruption to local businesses and residents have sparked concerns. Critics have also questioned the timeline, noting that earlier phases of the project exceeded initial budget and schedule estimates.
“We’re committed to transparency and accountability as we move forward,” said MTA Chair Janno Lieber. “This is an investment in the future of New York City, and we will deliver.”
The MTA has pledged to engage with the community throughout the construction process to address concerns and ensure that the benefits of the new subway line are felt broadly.
Looking Ahead
As the groundbreaking ceremony concluded, the mood was one of celebration and cautious optimism. For the residents of East Harlem, the promise of a new subway line represents more than infrastructure—it’s a long-overdue acknowledgment of their community’s needs.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re building a city that works for everyone, one track at a time.”
