Heading west
The MTA, mayor and governor unveiled this morning the sign for the first, and only, station at 11th Avenue and 34th Street for the No. 7 line's expansion west. The unveiling took the place of golden shovels at the ground-breaking ceremony commemorating the start of construction that will extend the 7 train from Times Square to the Javits Center and the to-be developed Hudson Yards. The mayor's office didn't promise anything, but said Michael Bloomberg, the governor and the MTA will try to find funding to build the shell of a sought-after second station at 10th Avenue and 41st Street. However, officials said the station isn't necessary for the development for the Hudson Yards while the 11th Avenue stop is. Sen. Charles Schumer and transit advocates have disagreed. From Schumer's office today:
Schumer, who originally proposed extending the 7-line, today said the current plans do not maximize the economic development potential of the West Side. Schumer called for building of a second stop on the extended line before the construction of amenities such as a mid-block boulevard between 10th and 11th Avenues.
“As every transportation planner knows, basic mass transit infrastructure helps develop neighborhoods. When I originally proposed extending the 7-line, it was meant to be a catalyst to develop the entire West Side, but it needs to be done right. Revenue from the Hudson Yards will generate $2 billion for the 7-line and $1 billion for a mid block boulevard and other improvements. A boulevard is nice, a subway station at the Northern Elbow to the extended 7-train is essential.”
