Hewes Street: A Key Elevated Station in Williamsburg

Hewes Street station is an elevated subway stop located on the BMT Jamaica Line in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. It serves as an important connection point for local residents and commuters, offering access via several service lines operating on this route. Its location in a dynamic area of Brooklyn makes it a fundamental access point for this vibrant community.

Connections and Services

Hewes Street station is a single elevated station that is part of the BMT Jamaica Line:

Hewes Street (BMT Jamaica Line)

• This station is an elevated stop on the BMT Jamaica Line of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • J (brown)
  • M (orange – weekends/nights, brown – weekdays)
  • Z (brown – peak direction rush hours only, ‘skip-stop’ service)
• Main entrance address: Hewes Street and Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Station Features

• This station has two side platforms and three tracks.
• The center track is generally not used for regular passenger service, except by Z trains during rush hours operating in ‘skip-stop’ mode, which do not stop here.
• Station entrances and the ticket booth are located at street level, under the elevated track structure, at the intersection of Hewes Street and Broadway.

Hewes Street station does not allow direct transfers to other subway lines within the station complex itself.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of Hewes Street and Broadway, in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point for residents and visitors to the area, connecting to important local destinations such as:

  • Williamsburg

    • Known for its cultural diversity, mix of communities, and artistic atmosphere.
    • Proximity to Williamsburg Bridge Plaza and easy access to the bridge.
    • Area with a notable presence of the Hasidic Jewish community.
    • Variety of local shops, restaurants, and small businesses.

  • Nearby Points of Interest

    • A neighborhood with a mix of historic residential buildings and new developments.
    • Peter Luger Steak House: An iconic nearby steakhouse.
    • Access to various religious and community institutions.

  • Access and Community

    • Serves as a vital stop for the daily commutes of local residents to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn and Queens.
    • Connection with several local bus routes serving the surrounding area.

History and Evolution

• Hewes Street station was opened on June 25, 1888, as part of the original elevated Broadway Line (Brooklyn).
• The station has maintained its character as an elevated structure over the years, with periodic renovations to maintain its functionality and safety.
• It has witnessed the evolution of service on the BMT Jamaica Line, including the introduction and modification of the J/Z ‘skip-stop’ service patterns.

Interesting Facts

• The station operates with local service for J and M trains, while Z ‘skip-stop’ trains bypass it during rush hours.
• Its elevated design is characteristic of the old BMT lines in Brooklyn and Queens.
• It is a fundamental station for the local Williamsburg community, reflecting the history and diversity of the neighborhood.