Ed | MTA investments keep NYC moving

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is increasing service across subway and rail lines to support major events like the World Cup and U.S. Open, according to Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara. These upgrades follow increased state funding from Governor Hochul and the completion of several key infrastructure projects.

Rieara stated that the agency has expanded subway service on more than a dozen lines since 2023. This effort aims to ensure transit reliability for daily commuters and high-capacity events, including the return of the NBA Finals to New York for the first time in 27 years.

How will the MTA handle the World Cup?

On match days, the MTA will run additional trains on the C, 1, 7, and F lines, according to Rieara. These trains will accommodate fans traveling to Penn Station and the Port Authority Bus Terminal for transit to the New York/New Jersey Stadium.

Did You Know? The MTA has expanded subway service on more than 12 different lines since 2023 to improve overall system reliability.

What changes are coming to the Long Island Rail Road for the U.S. Open?

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) will provide significantly more service than it did during the 2018 U.S. Open, according to Rieara. This increase is possible due to the completion of the Double Track, Third Track, and Grand Central Madison projects.

The agency plans to run an average of seven to eight additional trains per day. Rieara noted that the MTA will also increase train lengths and provide more direct service to and from the temporary Shinnecock Hills Station without canceling regular service.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the shift from canceling regular service to adding capacity for major tournaments indicates a transition toward a more flexible infrastructure. By utilizing the Third Track and Grand Central Madison, the MTA is attempting to balance specialized event demands with the needs of daily commuters.

What are the MTA’s future expansion plans?

Following a recent groundbreaking for Second Avenue Subway Phase 2, the MTA is exploring further growth. Under the direction of the Governor, the agency is looking into a possible westward extension of the Q line to Broadway along 125 St.

Massive New York City FIFA World Cup 2026 transit plan revealed

Rieara stated that extending the Q line could save time and money because tunnel boring machines would already be on-site. Additionally, the MTA is in the early stages of redesigning Jamaica Station, which serves as the gateway from Kennedy Airport.

While the benefits of these projects may take years to realize, Rieara described the strategy as “playing the long game” to modernize the regional network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which subway lines will see increased service for the World Cup?
Additional trains will run on the C, 1, 7, and F lines to help fans reach Penn Station and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

What infrastructure projects improved LIRR capacity for the U.S. Open?
According to the MTA, the Double Track, Third Track, and Grand Central Madison projects provided the necessary capacity and flexibility.

Where could the Q line be extended in the future?
The MTA is investigating a possible extension of the Q line westward to Broadway along 125 St.

How do you think these transit expansions will affect your daily commute during major sporting events?