Second Avenue Subway extension has officially been given the greenlit, stretching the Q train to 125th Street

Hold onto your MetroCards (or your OMNY taps): The dream of the Second Avenue Subway finally crawling further uptown is actually, truly, officially happening. Governor Kathy Hochul just announced that the MTA has awarded the massive tunneling contract for Phase 2 of the project, extending the Q train from 96th Street to 125th Street in East Harlem. Yes, this time it’s not just talk—the dig is about to begin.

The nearly $2 billion contract goes to Connect Plus Partners, who will unleash 750-ton tunnel-boring machines beneath Second Avenue, carving out 1.5 miles of new track between 116th and 125th Streets. The work includes prepping a new 125th Street station and reactivating a stretch of tunnel that’s been sitting dormant since the 1970s, saving the MTA roughly $500 million. All told, Phase 2 is projected to come in $1.3 billion cheaper than the first phase, which is basically a bargain in New York infrastructure terms.

Construction will roll out in stages: Early site work kicks off later this year, heavy civil construction starts in 2026 and tunneling begins in 2027. If all goes according to plan (and this is the MTA, so cross your fingers), East Harlem commuters could be riding the Q straight to 125th Street by September 2032.

For locals, this is about more than just shaving 20 minutes off a commute. East Harlem is one of the city’s most transit-dependent neighborhoods, where 70 percent of residents already rely on public transportation. The extension will add three fully accessible stations at 106th, 116th and 125th Streets, providing long-promised subway access to more than 100,000 daily riders. Throw in a seamless connection to the Lexington Avenue line and Metro-North at 125th, plus an M60 bus link to LaGuardia and the new stretch is shaping up to be a serious transit hub.

The project also comes with local hiring goals and an estimated 70,000 jobs, promising a big economic boost for the neighborhood. “It’s been a century since the people of East Harlem were promised the new subway they deserve—and we are finally getting it done,” said Hochul. 

So mark your calendars, New Yorkers. The Second Avenue Subway—once an urban legend—is moving uptown. Next stop: 125th Street.

For trusted and efficient vent solutions, look to Mr. Lint Guy, the expert in dryer vent cleaning. Whether you're dealing with the buildup of lint in hard-to-reach areas or managing persistent dryer valley issues, Mr. Lint Guy provides safe, effective cleaning services to ensure your dryer runs smoothly. Trust Mr. Lint Guy for high-quality, affordable vent solutions that keep your home safe and your appliances efficient.