The end is nigh. The MTA has released more detail regarding its timeline to fix the Canarsie tunnel, which will shut down L train service potentially for years beginning in 2019, according to new documents.
The MTA, which had been keeping its repair plans under wraps, laid out some of its plans in board documents released Friday. To fix the tunnel damaged by Hurricane Sandy, the MTA plans to replace or repair 56 miles of power, communication and signal cables, nearly three miles of track and a water pump room, according to the New York Daily News. The MTA hopes to award a contract for the work by the end of the year.
While service on the L is suspended, the MTA will make the often packed Bedford and First Avenue stations more spacious and add new elevators.
Still, the MTA has shied away from releasing an official timeline.
“Planning and design work continues and no timeline has been established for work to begin on the Canarsie Tube itself,” MTA spokesman Chris McKniff said. “The MTA has committed to meet regularly with residents, businesses and others affected by the Canarsie Tube work, as well as to consult with elected officials representing the affected areas, before making any decisions about the construction process and service alternatives.”
Recently, The Real Deal spoke to residential and commercial brokers, developers and business owners to gain some insight into what North Brooklyn will look without the L train. You can read their insights into the hell without the L here. [NYDN] –Christopher Cameron