Upon completion, Phase I of the JCI program will support the first passenger route from Jamaica, Queens to Atlantic Terminal, Brooklyn on the MTA’s Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). The project consists of a new station platform, Platform F, and its associated track reconfiguration. Platform F will support a new Brooklyn shuttle service between Jamaica Station and Atlantic Terminal that will increase operational flexibility and through-put capacity. It also will provide capacity to accommodate future trains traveling to and from Grand Central Terminal and contribute to the JCI’s overall mission to streamline and enhance rail service for its passengers.
“The improvements made to Jamaica Station have allowed the LIRR to serve the growing transportation demand in the area,” said Kevin R. Collins, PE, HNTB’s New York Office Leader and Senior Vice President. “Customers of the LIRR will benefit from improved transit times, a transformed station with updated accommodations, and a new visual landmark that reflects the character of the community.”
This project had unique challenges with its space constraints and a complex, busy project area. Significant interagency and stakeholder coordination were required to ensure regulatory compliance, and digital twin technology was used to create asset models that allowed for the careful integration of the project with existing infrastructure. The platform incorporated community engagement and local artists to create an inclusive environment for commuters that matches the neighborhood aesthetics.
