Prospect Avenue station completes renovation

November 3, 2017 Jaime DeJesus
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The trifecta is complete as the third Brooklyn R train station that had been under renovation is now open for business.

Following the reopening of the 53rd Street and Bay Ridge Avenue stations, both of which underwent similar extensive renovation, on Thursday, November 2, the Prospect Avenue station reopened.

The station, which has been closed since Monday, June 5 is part of the Enhanced Station Initiative and now sports amenities such as countdown clocks at each of the three entrances, LED lighting, free Wi-Fi, digital displays, USB ports and an upgraded security system.

According to MTA executives and elected officials, the renovation of the 102-year-old station was long overdue.

“With the opening of this station, we continue to quickly and efficiently deliver subway customers new tools to manage their commute, including countdown clocks, Wi-Fi connectivity and USB ports, as well as an enhanced station with better lighting, improved signage and new art,” said MTA Chairperson Joseph Lhota. “We look forward to building on the momentum and feedback received from these Brooklyn stations and bringing this innovation to more stations.”

“I’m pleased to see the Prospect Avenue R station reopen for the straphangers of South Slope and Sunset Park,” added Borough President Eric Adams. “Greater investment in our mass transit infrastructure is critically needed across our borough to advance the safety and reliability of service, and this design enhancement campaign is a step toward that larger imperative.”

Similar to the other new stations, glass barriers have replaced metal bars, to enhance sightlines and allow natural light in the station.

Art is also on display for straphangers. According to the MTA, Colombian-born, Brooklyn-based artist Monika Bravo created for the station pixelated satellite images presented in mosaic tesserae, historical maps and photos of the nearby waterfront, and forms drawn from modern abstraction. Data and material are woven together to create a new code that connects technology, process and illusion.

Also featured are wayfinding floor tiles for the visually-impaired, new handrails, stair treads, wall tiles and granite flooring.

“This is the second station in our district to be upgraded under the Enhanced Station Initiative and we are happy, once again, that the MTA has completed this much needed work earlier than expected and that the station will be open before the marathon,” said Community Board 7 District Manager Jeremy Laufer. “We look forward to continuing to work with our MTA to improve our other facilities and service.”

“Cleaner and more modern stations lead to safer on-time rides,” noted Assemblymember Felix Ortiz. “The improvements to the R line will also help our communities attract new business and visitors.”

“While the six month construction period was a challenge for nearby residents and businesses, the results are impressive,” added Councilmember Carlos Menchaca. “Prospect Avenue now joins the 53 Street and Bay Ridge Avenue stations to the south as one of the most modern in New York City. I look forward to working with the MTA on continuing improvements to stations, lines and services.”

Looking ahead, an amendment to the MTA Capital Plan that’s in the offing includes funding for accessibility projects at the 59th Street, 77th Street, 86th Street and Bay Ridge-95th Street stations.

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