MTA begins new phase of Second Avenue subway extension

The MTA has announced that it will begin taking steps to develop the design, environmental services and community outreach for the second phase of the Second Avenue subway extension.

The long-awaited Second Avenue subway is closer to becoming a reality since the MTA announced Friday that they will soon procure key elements related to the subway’s second phase, which will take it from East 96thto East 125thStreet.

The MTA is currently requesting proposals from consultants on the new extension’s design, environmental engineering and community outreach, with the awarding of these three contracts anticipated this summer.

“These design and environmental consulting contracts will enable us to take the next steps toward construction of the next phase of the Second Avenue subway,” said MTA Capital Construction President Michael Horodniceanu. “The community outreach contract will help ensure that community members are kept informed and their feedback is taken into account every step of the way.”

The first phase of the new Second Avenue subway is expected to open in December with three new stations at 72nd, 86thand 96thstreets and an expanded station at 63rdStreet and Lexington Avenue, according to the MTA. Once open, the Q train will run on the Second Avenue line.

“With the opening of first phase of the Second Avenue subway planned for the end of this year, we are taking steps to ensure a seamless transition to the next phase of work ahead,” MTA Chairman and CEO Thomas F. Prendergast said.