Midwood business pushes back on MTA construction
The columns in question are part of the upgrades underway at the Avenue I station. The project is one of dozens across the city aimed at making the transit system more accessible.
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For 30 years, Steven Shammah has operated Kids N’ Action, a family entertainment center in Midwood. But he says ongoing construction outside his doors, part of the MTA’s major capital plan to make subway stations ADA accessible, is derailing his business and creating potential safety risks.
“The buses unload over here, the kids run in,” Shammah explained. “A child not paying attention, either coming into my premise or leaving my premise, might run into a column and bang their head.”
The columns in question are part of the upgrades underway at the Avenue I station. The project is one of dozens across the city aimed at making the transit system more accessible. Improvements include new elevators, renovated staircases, and updated safety systems.
“That community has been looking for accessibility,” said Jamie Torres-Springer, president of MTA Construction & Development. “We’re finally getting it done, and we’re getting that done at four times the pace we’ve ever done before.”
With more than 40 subway stations slated for accessibility upgrades, many residents say the say they're ready for the change.
“As you can see, I’m getting up there in age, I can’t do the stairs,” said local resident Enid Grant. “So, it’s good they’re putting the elevator in. I can get to the train easier.”
Shammah says the current layout outside his business has become a hazard. He has started a petition urging the MTA to reconsider its project plans.
The MTA tells News 12 that in addition to concrete jersey barriers and flaggers, station upgrades will also include track replacements. It also added that ”utility relocation is currently underway” and “no sidewalk closures....are anticipated for the remainder of this construction” which is aimed at being completed in 2028.
