MTA Announces Switch of F and M Subway Lines Between Manhattan and Queens to Ease Rush-Hour Congestion

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will change the routes of the F and M subway lines between Manhattan and Queens, effective December 8. The adjustment will apply on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with weekend and late-night service remaining unchanged. Under the new arrangement, the F train will stop at Queens Plaza, Court Sq-23 St, Lexington Av/53 St, and 5 Av/53 St, while the M train will serve 21 St-Queensbridge, Roosevelt Island, Lexington Av/63 St, and 57 St stations, according to ABC7NY.

The switch is intended to address the subway congestion at Queens Plaza, where M and E trains intersect, often causing delays. MTA Chair Janno Lieber stated at a news conference Wednesday that F train commuters from Eastern Queens experience significant crowding in the mornings, which affects train dwell times and can disrupt the schedule. He explained that the measure is expected to allow more M trains to run in the mornings, improving schedule reliability and reducing delays. Gothamist reports that the change is anticipated to improve travel on the E, M, F, and R lines, which together serve approximately 1.2 million riders daily.

NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow, aligned with the move, expressed that "NYC Transit is implementing smart changes that will enhance reliability and operational resilience which ultimately results in better service that customers can count on." He added that the subtle shift in the transitscape not only promises to deliver faster and less crowded journeys, but also "more direct trips between the 63 St line and Queens Boulevard local stations," Crichlow told ABC7NY.

While residents along these transit lines must quickly adapt to their new commutes, transit officials remain optimistic that the convenience of decreased wait times and fewer tunnel crossings will outweigh the initial adjustment period. Lieber emphasized the positive aspects of the route modification, stating, "They're real benefits and I know that people will start to recognize them, although obviously everybody needs to adjust their routine." In an interview with Gothamist, he highlighted authorities' confidence that the public will soon embrace the improved subway experience.