The Brian Lehrer Show

The Long-Promised Second Avenue Subway Extension

Aug 25, 2025
Ramsey Khalifeh, a transportation reporter at WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the MTA's ambitious plans to extend the Q train to 125th Street. He discusses the recent approval of a $2 billion contract and its expected benefits for East Harlem's transit and economy. However, the impact of eminent domain on local residents raises concerns, especially regarding gentrification. Khalifeh also explores the mixed feelings among East Harlem residents, balancing hopes for better access against the threat of neighborhood changes. Funding challenges further complicate this long-awaited project.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Major Tunnel Contract Moves Project Forward

  • The MTA approved a nearly $2 billion tunnel-boring contract that advances Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway.
  • The awarded work covers a new tunnel, rehab of a 1970s abandoned tunnel, and two new stations at 116th and 125th Streets.
ANECDOTE

Families Facing MTA Buyouts And Tight Options

  • Ramsey describes renters forced to move when the MTA acquires buildings and the relocation offers often don't fit budgets or family sizes.
  • He cites the Diego family and a building near 116th Street as examples of tenants facing unaffordable or too-small replacement units.
ADVICE

Settle Property Valuations Early

  • Landlords and the MTA typically try to settle property valuations before court to avoid long legal delays.
  • If they fail to agree, each side gets appraisals and a judge resolves the dispute, which can take months.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app