Subway Work to Close Some Lexington Avenue Stations

Some riders are upset over the four-night overnight train closures at some 4, 5, 6 stations, while others take them in stride

Service will be suspended along a segment of the Lexington Avenue 4, 5 and 6 subway lines for maintenance work beginning late Monday night, the MTA said.

The lines will be closed between Grand Central-42nd Street and Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, and service will be suspended in both directions between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. for four straight weeknights beginning Monday, Jan. 9.

Fifteen stations on the 4, 5, 6 lines will be closed to entry from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. Uptown 4, 5, 6 service will be available at Grand Central-42nd Street.

Compared to the millions of riders who depend on subways during the day, the 38,000 people who take the Lexington line after 10 p.m. represent only a tiny fraction of people affected, says the MTA.

But some who are being shut out of service aren't happy.

"It's like cold turkey, no subway," said Tara King-Brown, a commuter. "I think it's huge. It's not an effective way of doing it."

Late-night travelers have been given the alternative of riding another line, like the 2 or 3 train on the West side.

Commuter Carylee Sacks wasn't buying it. "It's inconvenient," she said. "I take the 4 or 5. I don't want to be switching trains and getting stuck."

Another commuter, Matthew Vann, said, "It's really out of my way. The 4 or 5 is what I rely on. It really creates a big problem."

The MTA insists the so-called Fastrack operation will be effective, saving money and allowing workers to do maintenance without having to stop and dodge trains.

And despite the grumblings of many, plenty of other straphangers were understanding.

"It's only a week, so it shouldn't be that big of an inconvenience," said restaurant worker Samantha Bolger. "There's other ways to get home."

Dwayne McDonald, who has to be at his shipping and receiving job before 5 a.m., said he'll work around the service suspension.

"I don't know how I'm gonna reach, but I'll get there," he said. "I drive, so if I have to, I will."

In coming weeks, similar shutdowns will occur on the B, D, F and M, the 1, 2, and 3, and the A, C and E.

Substantial alternate service is available via parallel subway corridors, though riders are advised to allow extra time for their trips.

Tracks are being inspected and may be replaced or repaired, and stations are getting spot painting and power washing.

The MTA describes the program in detail, including suggested detours, here.

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