NYC Subway Adds Elevators, Expanding Access for All
MTA opens two elevators at Bronx's Mosholu Parkway 4 train station, now 145th accessible site
MTA Adds Elevators at Mosholu Parkway Station
Riders with disabilities, seniors, and parents with strollers can now access the Mosholu Parkway station on the 4 line without barriers. The MTA opened two new elevators Tuesday at the Bronx station, making it the system's 145th fully accessible location. One elevator connects street level to the mezzanine, while the other links the mezzanine to both platforms.
Part of Broader Accessibility Push
The elevator installation reflects the MTA's ongoing effort to retrofit older stations that predate federal accessibility requirements. Janno Lieber, MTA Chair and CEO, said making the system accessible is a top priority. The project is part of the agency's 2020-2024 Capital Program, which includes $54.8 billion in infrastructure investments. About 30% of the subway system's 472 stations now offer barrier-free access, though the MTA hasn't disclosed specific timelines for additional accessibility projects.
Two Elevators Serve Different Levels
The new elevators provide continuous accessible routes throughout the station, according to Demetrius Crichlow, Senior Vice President of Subways at New York City Transit. He said the opening represents the agency's dedication to improving accessibility across the subway system. The MTA didn't disclose the specific cost of the elevator installation project or how long construction took. Station-specific ridership data wasn't available, though officials said the improvements will benefit the surrounding Bronx community.
Elevators Now Operational
Both elevators became operational Sept. 3 and are now serving riders, transit officials confirmed. The MTA typically conducts testing and inspections before opening new accessibility infrastructure to ensure safety and reliability. Lisa Daglian, Executive Director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA, said every station that becomes accessible is a victory for riders with disabilities and anyone who needs barrier-free access.
System Lags Behind Newer Networks
New York's subway system faces unique accessibility challenges because most stations opened before the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act required accessible design. Transit systems built more recently, like Washington's Metro and San Francisco's BART, were constructed with elevators from the start and have 100% accessible stations. The MTA said it's committed to continued accessibility improvements but hasn't announced which stations will receive upgrades next. Riders can check Moovit for real-time accessibility information at subway stations throughout the system.
