May 2008
Traveling the New York City subways in a wheelchair is a big challenge

As part of its ongoing look at ADA provisions among the MTA agencies, PCAC staff joined NYCTRC member Edith Prentiss for a tour of subway conditions. Ms. Prentiss, who uses an electric wheelchair to travel, does not shy away from the obstacles in using public transportation; but, she has more determination than most. Poor signage, non-working elevators, rough floor surfaces, the frequent vertical gap between the platform and the subway car, and confusing and inconsistent buttons in elevators are among the many problems encountered by users.

Ms. Prentiss explained that the best option for wheelchair access is through the use of ramps.  Unfortunately, because of the age of the system, few can be incorporated into existing stations.   She indicated that what is really needed is a guide for travel options when an elevator is out of service.  She explained that Transit personnel in booths or on customer assistance phones usually do not have any idea on how to advise riders in wheelchairs as to alternative routes.  

May 2008
PCAC visits the Yonkers TOD

PCAC staff members Jan Wells and Ellyn Shannon joined a special tour of the historic Yonkers train station, led by Mari Miceli, Director of Special Projects, MNR Capital Engineering.  This 1911 landmark brick and granite Beaux Arts building designed by Warren and Wetmore (designers of Grand Central Terminal) has been preserved and rejuvenated.  Restoration work included exterior walls, interior spaces, doors and windows, copper roofing, quarry tile flooring and restrooms.  A new, wide doorway and corridor through the station concourse provides a direct link to the Hudson River waterfront activities.  Outside, concrete platforms were replaced and new historic style canopies were installed.  Major infrastructure work on four tack bridges has also been completed.  Complementing the building improvements is the addition of an adjacent park area complete with paths, landscaping, benches, lighting and ornamental fencing.  This area was previously a bus layover area which has now been located across the street. 

The tour group was then met by developer Arthur Collins of Collins Enterprises who walked the group through his Hudson Park waterfront development, which will feature 266 luxury rental units when completed.  He pointed out the many improvements made by the City of Yonkers to the historic Pier area.  Metro-North’s capital improvements at the Yonkers station were a catalyst for significant investments by the City of Yonkers and the development community.  The Yonkers TOD is an outstanding example of public-private cooperation in revitalizing a downtown area.  Click here to see photos of the station and TOD area.