NYC's IBX Line Begins Review — A New Era for Brooklyn-Queens Transit

MTA begins environmental review for 14-mile Interborough Express linking Brooklyn and Queens

MTA Starts Environmental Review for IBX Line

The MTA's starting environmental assessment for the Interborough Express, a new 14-mile transit line that'll connect Brooklyn and Queens. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the review December 19, marking a major step toward the $5.5 billion project that's expected to serve 88,000 daily riders. The line will connect 17 subway routes and the Long Island Rail Road, cutting commute times by up to 40 minutes for cross-borough trips that currently require multiple transfers into Manhattan.

Addressing Cross-Borough Transit Gap

The Interborough Express addresses a long-standing gap in New York City's transit network, where most subway lines run into Manhattan rather than connecting outer boroughs directly. The project will transform an underutilized freight rail corridor dating to the 1800s into modern transit infrastructure. "The Interborough Express will be a game-changer for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers who live and work in Brooklyn and Queens," Hochul said. Officials haven't specified which transit mode—light rail or bus rapid transit—will be selected, with that decision coming after the environmental review.

Project Scope and Connections

The 14-mile line will include 14 stations along the Bay Ridge Branch freight corridor. Janno Lieber, MTA Chair and CEO, said the project "represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to fundamentally improve transit connectivity in New York City." The environmental assessment will evaluate impacts on air quality, noise, vibration, historic resources, and surrounding communities. Specific funding sources for the estimated $5.5 billion cost haven't been finalized, though the project requires federal approval and likely federal funding participation.

Review Process and Timeline

The environmental assessment is required under the National Environmental Policy Act for major transit projects seeking federal funding. Jamie Torres-Springer, President of MTA Construction & Development, said the review "will allow us to thoroughly evaluate the project's impacts and refine our plans to deliver the best possible transit solution." The MTA hasn't announced a specific timeline for completing the environmental assessment or a construction start date. A target date for when service would begin also wasn't provided.

Impact on Brooklyn-Queens Commuters

The project aims to eliminate lengthy commutes for riders traveling between Brooklyn and Queens, who currently face indirect routes requiring transfers through Manhattan. Transit advocacy groups including the Riders Alliance have long supported the project as critical infrastructure for improving cross-borough connectivity. The MTA hasn't announced which firm will conduct the environmental assessment. Riders can track project updates and plan future trips using Moovit's real-time transit information for New York City.