St. Lawrence Avenue: An Essential Local Station in The Bronx

The St. Lawrence Avenue station is an elevated subway station located in The Bronx, New York. It serves as a vital access point for local residents on the Pelham line of the city’s subway system. Its location at the intersection of St. Lawrence and Westchester Avenues places it in the heart of the Soundview and Parkchester neighborhoods, providing crucial transportation service for these communities.

Connections and Services

The St. Lawrence Avenue station is a single local station and is not part of a transfer complex.

St. Lawrence Avenue (Pelham Line)

• This station belongs to the Pelham line of the New York City Subway (IRT division).
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • 6 (green – local, permanent service)
  • <6> (green diamond – express during peak hours in the peak direction)
• Main entrance address: Intersection of St. Lawrence Avenue and Westchester Avenue, The Bronx, NY.

Station Structure

• This station is not part of an interconnected complex with other lines or separate stations.
• It is a single elevated station above Westchester Avenue.
• It has two side platforms and three tracks (the center track is for express trains that do not stop here).
• There are no other station sections directly connected for internal transfers.

As a local station, it does not allow direct transfers to other subway lines within its facilities; passengers must use other stations to make such connections.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of St. Lawrence Avenue and Westchester Avenue, serving the Soundview and Parkchester neighborhoods in The Bronx.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to local destinations such as:

  • Soundview Neighborhood

    • A predominantly residential area with a mix of apartment buildings and houses.
    • Access to local businesses and services along Westchester Avenue.
    • Proximity to local schools and community centers.

  • Parkchester Area

    • A planned residential neighborhood known for its distinctive architecture.
    • Offers access to shops and services within the Parkchester complex.
    • Connects residents to the rest of the city.

  • Nearby Points of Interest

    • Soundview Park: A large nearby park offering green and recreational spaces.
    • Westchester Avenue Businesses: Various local shops, restaurants, and services.

History and Evolution

• The St. Lawrence Avenue station was inaugurated on May 30, 1920, as part of the Pelham line expansion under the Dual Contracts.
• The station has maintained its characteristic elevated structure and has received periodic maintenance over the years to ensure its operation and safety.
• Since its opening, it has been a fundamental pillar for the transportation of residents in the surrounding communities in The Bronx.

Interesting Facts

• The station primarily serves local residents and daily commuters from adjacent neighborhoods.
• Its elevated location offers typical urban views of New York’s outdoor subway lines.
• It represents a classic example of stations built during the great subway expansion in the early 20th century under the Dual Contracts.