Forest Hills–71st Avenue: A Vital Hub in the Heart of Queens

The Forest Hills–71st Avenue station is a major subway complex located in the heart of Forest Hills, Queens, New York. It serves as a crucial transfer point and terminal for several subway lines, making it one of the busiest and most significant stations in the borough of Queens. Its strategic location on Queens Boulevard positions it as a key access point to a vibrant residential and commercial area.

Connections and Services

The Forest Hills–71st Avenue station is a unique complex serving the IND Queens Boulevard Line:

Subway Services (Queens Boulevard Line)

• This station is both an express and local stop on the IND Queens Boulevard Line of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains of the following services:
  • E (blue)
  • F (orange)
  • M (orange) – Terminal
  • R (yellow) – Terminal
• Main entrance address: Queens Boulevard and 71st Avenue (also known as Continental Avenue), Forest Hills, NY 11375

Additional Connections and Accessibility

• This station offers a convenient connection to the Forest Hills station of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), located adjacent.
• The station has multiple entrances and exits along Queens Boulevard and 71st Avenue.
• Efforts have been made to improve accessibility; please consult updated MTA information regarding available elevators and ramps.

The station’s layout allows passengers to make efficient transfers between local and express services on the Queens Boulevard Line, as well as connect to the LIRR.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of Queens Boulevard and 71st Avenue (Continental Avenue) in the Forest Hills neighborhood of Queens.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Forest Hills Gardens

    • A historic and private residential community known for its Tudor-style architecture.
    • Picturesque streets and a quiet, planned environment.
    • Near the West Side Tennis Club, former home of the US Open.

  • Austin Street

    • A vibrant commercial corridor with a mix of local shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cinemas.
    • Popular shopping and leisure area for local residents and visitors.
    • Offers a diverse range of dining options.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • Forest Park: A large urban park with trails, sports fields, and a golf course.
    • Queens Borough Hall: Located a short subway ride away.

History and Evolution

• The Forest Hills–71st Avenue station was inaugurated on December 31, 1936, as part of the expansion of the IND Queens Boulevard Line.
• It has been a key hub in Queens since its opening, facilitating the development of the Forest Hills neighborhood.
• Over the years, the station has undergone maintenance and improvements to accommodate the growing number of passengers and modernize its facilities.

Interesting Facts

• The station is one of the busiest in the borough of Queens, serving as a vital link for daily commutes.
• It acts as a terminal for the M and R services, managing complex train operations.
• Its proximity to the LIRR makes it an important intermodal transportation hub in the city.