amNewYork Metro, along with the MTA, current “Ask the MTA,” a column the place MTA officers reply your questions on transit service in New York Metropolis. In case you have a query for the MTA about subways, buses, commuter rails and more, electronic mail askthemta[@]amny.com.
Q: I’ve lately observed unimaginable artwork items inside subway and commuter railroad stations. How does the MTA fee the artist and items? How lengthy is the course of from choice, development and then implementation? — Joanne N., Ridgewood
A: MTA Arts & Design has been bringing stunning paintings to the MTA system since 1985. To this point, we’ve commissioned more than 350 everlasting artworks by a proper choice course of that features arts professionals, company illustration, and neighborhood enter. The timeline varies relying on the medium, scale of the mission, and period out there. We additionally time new installations to coincide with station enchancment initiatives and their development schedules. On common the course of takes about two years from begin to end, although usually longer and typically much less. You will discover out more about MTA Arts and Design and new alternatives to create authentic, site-specific paintings on the MTA website. — Cheryl Hageman, deputy director of Arts for Transit
Q: When is the subsequent alternative to provide public touch upon the Brooklyn Bus Network Redesign? — Renata Q., Flatbush
A: Since mid-January we’ve been internet hosting digital public workshops in Brooklyn to assemble feedback on the borough’s Bus Network Redesign Draft Plan. It is a key a part of the course of; we need to be sure we’re redrawing the map in a manner that delivers the biggest advantages for riders. What higher manner than to listen to from our clients themselves?
There’s a digital workshop for Neighborhood Districts 14 and 17 — which embody your neighborhood, Flatbush — set for Thursday, Feb. 23 and Tuesday, March 7 respectively. For those who can’t make these, you’ll be able to see the full schedule and register to affix any of our conferences on the MTA website. We’re additionally taking suggestions on the mission web page for local and express service or by the comment portal. Each are open on-line 24/7. — Cate Contino, director of particular initiatives and strategic initiatives, MTA Authorities and Neighborhood Relations
Q: When will the MTA re-open the northwest staircase on the downtown platform at the Houston St. station on the 1 line? It’s been closed for a really very long time and causes a pedestrian-jam throughout the morning and night commute. — James G., Kingsbridge
A: On Dec. 20, we briefly closed this stairwell to permit the homeowners of the constructing subsequent door, 225 Varick Avenue, to do some restoration work to their façade. With the job now safely achieved, the homeowners are awaiting inspection and we count on to reopen the stairs early this week. — Susannah Harrington, director of station packages, New York Metropolis Transit