East 143rd Street–St. Mary’s Street: A Local Station in the South Bronx

The East 143rd Street–St. Mary’s Street station is an elevated subway station located in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the South Bronx, New York. It serves as a local stop on the Pelham Line of the New York City Subway, providing access to this residential and industrial area.

Connections and Services

The East 143rd Street–St. Mary’s Street station is a unique station on the Pelham Line:

East 143rd Street–St. Mary’s Street (Pelham Line)

• This station is a local stop on the Pelham Line of the New York City Subway system.
• It is served by trains of the following services:
  • 6 (green) – Local service at all times.
• Main address: Intersection of East 143rd Street and Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10454

Station Design

• The station is elevated, located above Southern Boulevard.
• It has two side platforms and three tracks.
• • The center track is used by express <6> trains during peak hours, which do not stop at this station.
  • Local trains of the 6 service use the outer tracks and stop at the side platforms.
• Access to the platforms is via stairs from street level.

This station does not offer direct transfers within the subway system, but it does connect with local bus routes.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of East 143rd Street and Southern Boulevard, in the Mott Haven neighborhood, South Bronx.
• Its location provides access to local points of interest and services such as:

  • St. Mary’s Park

    • One of the largest parks in the Bronx, offering green and recreational spaces.
    • Ideal for walking, sports, and outdoor activities.
    • It contains the St. Mary’s Recreation Center and children’s play areas.
    • An important green lung for the Mott Haven community.

  • Local Environment (Mott Haven)

    • A predominantly residential and industrial area in the South Bronx.
    • Close to local schools and community centers.
    • Access to businesses and services oriented to the local community.

  • Transportation Connections

    • Nearby bus stops for routes such as Bx17 and Bx19.
    • Facilitates travel within the Bronx and to other parts of the city.

History and Evolution

• The East 143rd Street–St. Mary’s Street station was inaugurated on January 7, 1919.
• It is part of the initial segment of the Pelham Line, originally operated by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT).
• The station has maintained its function as an elevated local stop throughout its history, serving the Mott Haven community.

Interesting Facts

• It is one of the typical elevated stations built by the IRT in the early 20th century.
• Its name refers to East 143rd Street and the nearby St. Mary’s Street (now part of St. Ann’s Avenue) and St. Mary’s Park.
• The station primarily serves local residents and workers in the Mott Haven area.