36th Avenue: An Elevated Station in Astoria, Queens

The 36th Avenue station is an elevated New York City Subway station located in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens. It serves as a stop for the N and W lines, part of the BMT Astoria Line. Its location makes it a convenient access point for residents and visitors to this diverse area of Queens.

Connections and Services

The 36th Avenue station is a single station that is part of the BMT Astoria Line:

36th Avenue (BMT Astoria Line)

• This station is an elevated local stop on the BMT Astoria Line of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • N (yellow)
  • W (yellow)
• Main entrance address: Intersection of 36th Avenue and 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11106

Structure and Design

• This part of the station has an elevated structure above 31st Street.
• It features:
  • Two side platforms.
  • Three tracks (the center express track is not normally used for regular stops at this station).
• Entrances and the fare control area are located at street level, beneath the elevated structure.

The station primarily serves the local community of Astoria, facilitating travel to and from Manhattan and other areas of Queens.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of 36th Avenue and 31st Street, in the heart of Astoria, Queens.
• Its location makes it a key access point to:

  • Astoria

    • Known for its vibrant multicultural community, especially its Greek heritage.
    • A wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
    • Proximity to Kaufman Astoria Studios and the Museum of the Moving Image.

  • Local Businesses

    • Serves numerous businesses and establishments located along 31st Street and 36th Avenue.
    • Facilitates access to offices and services in the area.

  • Nearby Institutions

    • Kaufman Astoria Studios: A historic and important film and television production center.
    • Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI): Dedicated to the art, history, and technology of film, television, and digital media.
    • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts: A public arts high school.

History and Evolution

• The 36th Avenue station opened on July 19, 1917, as part of the Astoria Line, originally operated jointly by the IRT and the BMT.
• The station has been part of modernization and renovation projects for the Astoria Line over the years to maintain and improve infrastructure.
• The platforms were lengthened in the past to accommodate longer trains.

Interesting Facts

• The station is a vital stop for residents of western Astoria.
• It offers elevated views of the surrounding neighborhood from its platforms.
• It is exclusively served by N and W trains, connecting Astoria with Manhattan and southern Brooklyn.