A Streetcar Through Brooklyn and Queens?
Rendering of proposed streetcar at Brooklyn Navy Yard
The proposed Brooklyn Queens Connector, or BQX, would travel 16 miles along the East River waterfront from Astoria to Sunset Park. Designed as a state-of-the-art rail system, it would run emissions-free and in dedicated lanes on tracks that are flush with the existing roadway. If community outreach (which has already begun), approvals, bids, etc. go smoothly, ground breaking can happen as early as 2019, with a possible finish date of 2024.
The 16-mile route of the proposed BQX
Shorter Travel Times
A trip from Astoria to Williamsburg, which now takes an hour, would take less than half an hour. Travel time from Dumbo to Williamsburg would be reduced by over half an hour. The new BQX streetcar would run 24 hours a day and at 5 minute intervals during peak hours.
Access To ‘Transit Deserts’
The BQX would provide access to ‘transit deserts’, isolated neighborhoods, such as Red Hook, the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and the Astoria waterfront.
Fabulous Places to Jump Off (From South to North)
Industry City – Sunset Park – This converted industrial complex is home to many designers, creators, and innovators. It also offers parties, dining, retail, and plenty of arts to explore among its massive buildings and landscaped courtyards.
Hometown Bar B Que – Red Hook – It is a truth commonly acknowledged that Hometown Bar B Que has the best BBQ in the city. Even though it’s hard to get to now, don’t wait for the BQX. Go, then dream about it for a few years until it’s easy to reach.
Wegmans at the Brooklyn Navy Yard – between Fort Greene and Williamsburg – Coming in 2018, this mega supermarket is everyone’s favorite supermarket. Seriously, people plan an outing to Wegmans for fun. You’ll see. The Brooklyn Navy Yard is home to hundreds of creative businesses and will soon also be home to a food hall anchored by quintessential appetizing shop, Russ and Daughters.
Transmitter Brewing – between Greenpoint and Long Island City – Tucked under the bridge that joins these 2 neighborhoods, a former auto garage is now home to this small, but noteworthy, brewery. Transmitter makes award winning farmhouse ales, and the picnic tables outside its tiny tasting room fill up quickly.
Socrates Sculpture Park – Astoria – This park on the East River was designed specifically for large scale sculpture and multi-media installations. It strongly encourages visitors to interact with the art, and always delivers a memorable experience.
Invest in An Underserved Neighborhood Now
If you are interested in exploring some of these underserved neighborhoods before the BQX possibly becomes a reality and values rise, shoot us an email or give us a call.
