Interborough Express moves forward in New York transit plan

The Interborough Express has officially entered its design phase, marking a major step toward building a 14-mile light-rail connection between Brooklyn and Queens. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Interborough Express receives funding and development support

Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed the transition to the design and engineering phase during a press conference. The Interborough Express, also called IBX, will run along existing freight corridors, stretching from Sunset Park in Brooklyn to Jackson Heights in Queens.

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The new transit line will include 19 stations and link with over a dozen subway lines, 50 bus routes, and two Long Island Rail Road stops. According to Hochul, this project will create new commuting options and improve community connectivity without requiring a trip through Manhattan.

Funding comes from several sources. New York State will allocate $45 million through its 2025 budget and the MTA’s 2025–2029 Capital Plan. In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation will contribute $15 million for corridor assessments and $1 million for financial advisory services.

MTA Chair Janno Lieber noted the significance, saying it will be the first full rapid transit line built since 1937. He also highlighted that it would bring new stations to Brooklyn for the first time since the 1940s and to Queens since the 1980s.

Interborough Express aims to reshape outer-borough travel

The project targets 900,000 residents who live near the proposed route. Riders will benefit from an estimated 32-minute end-to-end travel time, which aims to reduce congestion on other lines and create more direct inter-borough trips.

Hochul stressed the social and economic impact, saying the Interborough Express is about more than just infrastructure—it’s about connecting people and creating opportunities.

While the project still requires environmental review before construction can begin, officials expect development to accelerate over the next 24 months. The decision on whether the Long Island Rail Road or NYC Transit will operate the line will be made during this phase.

This initiative represents one of New York City’s most ambitious transit investments in decades and reflects a broader effort to rebalance mobility across all boroughs.

Source: ny1.com

FAQ

What is the Interborough Express?

The Interborough Express is a planned 14-mile light-rail line connecting Brooklyn and Queens. It will use existing freight tracks and serve 900,000 New Yorkers.

How long will the Interborough Express take to complete?

The project has entered a 24-month design phase, but construction could take several years after environmental approvals.

Can I transfer to subways or buses from the Interborough Express?

Yes, the line will connect to over a dozen subway lines, 50 bus routes, and two Long Island Rail Road stations.

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