The Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced this week that straphangers should expect major disruptions on the F and G lines once the overhaul of the Smith-9th Street station gets under way.

In the beginning of 2011, the F train will be skipping Smith and 9th streets for four months. Only northbound G service will be available at the station.

According to the MTA, in the summer of 2011, the subway station will be completely shut down for nine months. Train service will be replaced by shuttle buses for the duration of the project.

The MTA says the $179 million reconstruction of the crumbling concrete structure is expected to last for about four years. The transportation agency is also planning to upgrade the Fourth Avenue and 9th Street station.