Plans for the MTA’s Interborough Express (IBX) light rail project are progressing, promising to enhance connectivity between Brooklyn and Queens. The proposed 14-mile route will encompass some of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods, including the culturally rich areas of Jackson Heights and Bushwick. The IBX aims to provide a direct transit option, significantly reducing travel time for commuters.
The IBX is set to include a stop at Utica Avenue, a major thoroughfare in Brooklyn known for its bustling commercial activity. This area, home to approximately 150,000 residents, features a wide range of retail options, making it a key destination for local shoppers. Notable figures from Flatbush and East Flatbush include former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani and entertainer Barbra Streisand.
On July 30, 2023, the MTA celebrated a milestone by entering the design phase of the IBX project, followed by the commencement of environmental reviews on October 15, 2023. Public comment sessions are currently ongoing, allowing community members to share their thoughts on the project.
Benefits and Opportunities for Commuters
Transit officials assert that the IBX will bring numerous benefits to residents and workers in both boroughs. A complete ride on the light rail is projected to take just 33 minutes, offering a streamlined alternative to the more congested routes that typically pass through Manhattan. New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the project’s transformative potential, stating, “The IBX will dramatically improve the commutes of over 160,000 daily riders and we are moving full-speed ahead to keep this transformational project on track.”
The IBX will also enhance access to nearby neighborhoods, such as Flatlands, which still features historical Victorian architecture from its past as a farming community.
Retail Hub at Utica Avenue
The Utica Avenue stop is expected to serve as a gateway to a shopping hub in Brooklyn. Kings Plaza, a popular multi-level mall located at the intersection of Utica and Flatbush Avenues, will be a significant draw for shoppers. It hosts well-known retailers like Burlington, Primark, and Macy’s, making it a vital destination for those looking to shop.
Beyond Kings Plaza, the area boasts an array of furniture stores across the street, including Bob’s Discount Furniture and P.C. Richard & Son. These establishments, along with smaller home design shops, provide ample options for residents seeking to furnish their homes. Public transit users will find that many of these retailers offer delivery services, allowing them to explore without the burden of transporting large items.
Supporters of the IBX highlight the ease of connection between communities in Brooklyn and Queens, particularly around the Utica Avenue stop. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential noise pollution, gentrification, and the impacts on residential neighborhoods. Jibreel Jalloh, founder of the civic group The Flossy Organization, emphasized the need for “real affordability and anti-displacement protections” to prevent local residents from being pushed out due to rising costs associated with the new transit line.
As planning progresses, the MTA and state officials remain committed to addressing community concerns. The ongoing public comment sessions provide a platform for residents to voice their opinions and influence the project’s development.
The IBX light rail project presents an exciting opportunity for both economic growth and improved transit options in Brooklyn and Queens. While the benefits are clear, the challenges ahead will require careful consideration to ensure that the interests of all residents are respected and protected.
