Photo: Getty Images
Governor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) are highlighting significant improvements to the Metro North rail line, which serves the Hudson Valley. During a visit to Garrison Station, they showcased $3 million in upgrades, including platform enhancements, new staircases, and improved railings and tactile strips. These improvements aim to enhance accessibility and safety for passengers.
The MTA is also undertaking a major project to replace and rehabilitate the 130-year-old Park Avenue Viaduct, a critical structure that carries nearly all Metro North trains on the Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven lines. The first phase of this project, which began in 2023, focuses on replacing the viaduct from East 115th Street to East 123rd Street and is expected to be completed by 2026. The second phase will continue through 2027, replacing sections from East 127th Street to mid-block between East 131st and East 132nd Streets. According to the MTA, this project is crucial for maintaining the viaduct's structural integrity and ensuring safe service for the community.
In October, Metro North experienced a 16% increase in ridership compared to the previous year, with approximately 6.5 million passengers using the service. This surge in ridership underscores the importance of ongoing infrastructure improvements. Governor Hochul emphasized the commitment to modernizing infrastructure and promoting safety, stating, "A modern railroad will provide an excellent customer experience every trip with modern amenities at stations that are fully accessible, safe, and protected from climate change."
The MTA is also making targeted investments to improve the resiliency of the Metro North network, addressing erosion hot spots and upgrading drainage along the Hudson Line. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure the long-term reliability and sustainability of the rail system.