On April 1, full accessibility arrived at Metropolitan Avenue and Lorimer Street stations, which offer the G and L trains. Some skeptics may see the date and wonder if this is a prank — it is not. Although, the original signage predicted completion in the third quarter of 2023, a six-month delay isn’t much when considering this project began in the first quarter of 2022 — a year when the world faced a crisis of supply chain disruptions.
What does full accessibility mean?
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), six new elevators have been installed, three at Lorimer and three at Metropolitan. Each station has a street elevator and two elevators that travel to and from mezzanine and platform. The elevators are equipped with cameras and a two-way communications system so riders can communicate to dispatchers in an emergency via voice or interactive screens.
“Making Metropolitan Av-Lorimer St accessible is a major win for Brooklyn customers, bringing not just the benefits of new elevators but also new stairwells to improve customer flow in a critical transfer station,” said New York City Transit President Richard Davey. “
Other improvements were made to the stations. New stairs were built: Metropolitan received two new sets of platform stairs and Lorimer received six sets (four on the platform and two street-level) and one set of street-level steps was renovated to meet ADA approval, plus there are new ADA boarding areas. Also tactile strips have been installed on platform edges for customer safety. Broken tiles on walls and ceilings have been replaced. There is a new public address system.
“The new elevators and accessibility upgrades at the Lorimer are precisely the work we must be prioritizing as we build a sustainable, green city that meets the mobility needs of its residents. Thank you to the MTA for spearheading these essential improvements,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
Local businesses are happy that the construction is completed as it cost them dearly.
“Construction was complicated and disruptive on these busy corners, and I know neighbors and small businesses there felt the brunt of it. I’m grateful for neighborhood watchdogs who kept us informed—and to the MTA for working with our office to resolve issues. Please patronize fabulous local restaurants like Pomp and Circumstance, Zona Rosa, and others whose operations were impacted by this multiyear project!” said NYS Assembly Member Emily Gallagher. She added, “And if you want to see a full upgrade of the entire G line, check out our petition at bit.ly/gtraincampaign.”
The Greenline 