Queens residents say Interborough Express would offer much needed option for commuting to Brooklyn
NEW YORK -- Queens residents are increasing calls for better transportation options to Brooklyn.
The long talked about Interborough Express could be the solution. CBS2's Elijah Westbrook has the latest on the project and reaction from residents.
Queens commuters who use the MTA's subways and buses tell us they're often stranded without a direct link to Brooklyn by train. One of the only subway lines linking the two boroughs is the G train, which runs from Long Island City, Queens to Kensington, Brooklyn.
But if you don't live near that train, like Yokasta Colon, it could take you well over an hour.
"I think it's important," Colon told Westbrook. "Express is better, so any chance that we get to have an extra line directly to where we want to go is great idea."
Watch Elijah Westbrook's earlier report
She looks to the IBX as a solution. It would be a 14 mile stretch of transit service between Bay Ridge, Brooklyn and Jackson Heights, Queens. From end to end, just 45 minutes tops -- a project the agency says could result in a subway-like system, light rail or bus.
Studies are being done to see how the line would hold up on existing infrastructure.
"I think it's a good idea, because you have to go to Manhattan to catch another train," said Jamaica, Queens resident Sharon Datson.
The MTA says the project will not impact others in the works, such as Queensway and Queenslink.
In a statement, the agency said, "Nothing in the City's plan for QueensWay will impact any future MTA transportation initiatives."
If the IBX becomes a transit line, the MTA says more than 900,000 people who live within a half mile radius of the line could benefit from it.
The MTA says it's now reviewing material from its last town hall meeting in September. The agency wants to determine the best mode of transportation for the project.
It expects to update the public by early next year.