New York is probably one of the most recognizable cities in the world. Even if you haven't visited it, you can surely picture it in your mind: yellow taxis, endless skyscrapers, and the subway that never rests. However, very soon, a new symbol will need to be added to that image.
This is a project that promises to revolutionize the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of people. The Interborough Express, known as IBX, will be one of the most ambitious undertakings in decades. Its proposal is simple but powerful: to connect Brooklyn and Queens in just 32 minutes, with no need to cross Manhattan.
The train that wants to change New York
The IBX is a light rail line that will cover 14 mi. (22.5 km). It will have 19 stations distributed along its route, which will provide multiple access points throughout two of the city's most populated boroughs. The advantage is its connection with the existing network; the new service will be linked to 17 New York City subway lines, 50 bus routes, and even regional trains.
This way, it will become a backbone of future mobility. In addition, the complete journey will take just 32 minutes. This means that thousands of residents will save up to half an hour each day, which represents a change in the routine of those who travel between Brooklyn and Queens.
A direct benefit for the communities
Today, a large portion of those who live in Brooklyn and work in Queens must cross Manhattan, with long trips full of transfers. With the IBX, that waste of time will be left behind. The data are compelling: more than 900,000 people live near the train's route.
In addition, about 260,000 workers travel between these boroughs daily; this is a huge number of citizens who will have faster and more direct access to their destinations. The impact will be especially significant in African American and Latino communities, where many families do not have their own car. Households living near the poverty line and people with limited English proficiency will also benefit.
An investment of billions
A project of this magnitude comes with a high cost, as the estimated budget amounts to $5.5 billion. The good news is that much of the money is already secured. Of that amount, $2.75 billion will come from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's 2025-2029 Capital Plan.
The rest will be financed with funds from the state of New York and federal programs. The goal is clear: to transform mobility and create a more equitable transportation network. The most disadvantaged neighborhoods will now have direct access to jobs, schools, and basic services.
The city that never stops
The IBX is expected to transport about 160,000 people each day. That means more than 48 million trips per year, a figure that will place it among the most important rail services in the country. The reduction in travel time, the elimination of unnecessary transfers, and greater connectivity are just some of its advantages.
This train not only connects boroughs, but it also represents a step toward a fairer and more efficient city. New York has always known how to reinvent itself, and now it proves it again. The Interborough Express will be a new icon of the city that never sleeps, a bet on the future that promises to change urban life forever.