Queensboro Plaza: A Key Hub in Long Island City, Queens

The Queensboro Plaza station is an elevated subway complex located in Long Island City, Queens, New York. It serves as an important transfer point between several subway lines, connecting the boroughs of Queens and Manhattan via the Queensboro Bridge. Its strategic location makes it a vital access point for commuters and residents of the growing Long Island City area.

Connections and Services

The Queensboro Plaza station is a multi-level elevated complex that facilitates transfers between lines:

Lines and Services

• This elevated station belongs to the Flushing (IRT) and Astoria (BMT) lines of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • 7 (purple) – IRT Flushing Line
  • N (yellow) – BMT Astoria Line
  • W (yellow) – BMT Astoria Line (weekdays only)
• Main address: Intersection of Queens Plaza North/South, Crescent Street and 27th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101

Platform Levels

• The station has two platform levels.
• The upper level generally serves trains on the Flushing line (7).
• The lower level generally serves trains on the Astoria line (N, W).
• The layout facilitates transfers between services.

The interconnection within the station allows passengers to make convenient transfers between the Flushing and Astoria lines, providing access to Manhattan and various parts of Queens.

Importance and Location

• The station is located above Queens Plaza, near the entrance to the Queensboro Bridge, in the heart of Long Island City, Queens.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Long Island City (LIC)

    • Known for its rapid residential and commercial development, revitalized waterfront, and arts scene.
    • Proximity to museums like MoMA PS1.
    • Access to numerous office buildings and hotels.
    • Proximity to modern residential developments.

  • Views and Accessibility

    • Offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline from its elevated platforms.
    • A crucial point for transportation between Queens and Midtown Manhattan.
    • Direct access to the Queensboro Bridge for pedestrians and cyclists.

  • Nearby Points of Interest

    • Queensbridge Park: A large park along the East River.
    • Dutch Kills: A nearby neighborhood with a mix of industrial, commercial, and residential uses.
    • Silvercup Studios: One of the largest film and television studios in New York.

History and Evolution

• The Queensboro Plaza station was inaugurated between 1916 and 1917 as part of the dual IRT and BMT lines.
• Originally, it served as an important transfer hub for several elevated lines crossing the Queensboro Bridge, including services to Astoria, Flushing, and Manhattan.
• The complex has undergone significant reconfigurations over the years, including the removal of some elevated line connections, adapting to changes in the subway system.

Interesting Facts

• The station is known for its distinctive multi-level elevated structure and high passenger volume, especially during peak hours.
• Its open platforms offer some of the most iconic views of the Midtown Manhattan skyline available from the subway system.
• It is an essential transfer point for accessing events at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park (via the 7 train) and for traveling to and from Astoria.