85th Street–Forest Parkway: A Key Stop in Woodhaven, Queens

The 85th Street–Forest Parkway station is an elevated New York City Subway station located in the Woodhaven neighborhood of Queens. It serves the BMT Jamaica Line and functions as an important access point for residents and visitors to this area of Queens. Its location on the busy Jamaica Avenue places it at the heart of the neighborhood’s local activity.

Lines and Services

The 85th Street–Forest Parkway station belongs to the BMT Jamaica Line:

BMT Jamaica Line

• This station is a local stop on the BMT Jamaica Line of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • J (brown) – at all times
  • Z (brown) – limited rush hour service in the peak direction (skip-stop)
• Approximate address: Jamaica Avenue between 85th Street and Forest Parkway, Woodhaven, NY 11421

As a local station, it allows for easy connections for travel within the area and to other parts of the city via the Jamaica Line.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of Jamaica Avenue, 85th Street, and Forest Parkway, in the Woodhaven neighborhood of Queens.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to local destinations such as:

  • Woodhaven

    • A predominantly residential neighborhood with a mix of local shops and restaurants along Jamaica Avenue.
    • It offers access to various housing and community services.
    • Close to local points of interest and historic neighborhood establishments.

  • Forest Park

    • One of the largest parks in Queens, located a short distance away, offering expansive green areas, trails, and recreational areas.
    • It includes facilities such as golf courses, a carousel, and sports courts.

  • Jamaica Avenue

    • An important commercial thoroughfare that crosses several Queens neighborhoods, with numerous shops, businesses, and bus stops.

History and Evolution

• The 85th Street–Forest Parkway station was inaugurated on April 28, 1917, as part of the extension of the BMT Jamaica Line.
• Like many old elevated stations in the system, it has retained much of its original structure over the years.
• It has undergone periodic maintenance and repairs to ensure its operation and safety.

Interesting Facts

• It is a typical elevated station of the older New York City Subway lines.
• It plays a vital role in the daily commutes of Woodhaven residents.
• It is part of the skip-stop service pattern for J and Z trains during rush hours, where Z trains skip this station in the peak direction of travel.