7 line to be suspended this weekend

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- The 7 train line will be suspended both ways between Queensboro Plaza and Times Square-42 Street this weekend and next weekend.

The suspensions are the first of five planned service suspensions on the 7 line due to continued installation of Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) and the replacement of critical track panels along the Flushing Line.

During the weekends of November 8-10, November 15-17, and November 22-24, 7 trains will be suspended between Times Square-42 Street and Queensboro Plaza in both directions from 11:30 p.m. Fridays through 5:00 a.m. Mondays. The E,F,N,Q, S and free shuttle buses will provide alternate service.

"The ongoing work on the 7 remains absolutely critical to the line's reliability, safety and longevity," said MTA NYC Transit President Carmen Bianco. "We understand that these service disruptions are inconvenient to the customers who depend on the 7 train and we appreciate their patience. When completed, this work will result in a more reliable subway line with the ability to run more trains and improve performance for growing neighborhoods in Queens."

Customers can transfer between the 7 and E,F, R trains at 74 St-Roosevelt Ave. Q service will be extended to and from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free shuttle buses will operate between Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue and Queensboro Plaza, making stops at Hunters Point Ave., Court Square and Queens Plaza. In Manhattan, the 42 Street S shuttle will also operate throughout the weekend from 12:01 a.m. Saturday night, to 6:00 a.m. Monday morning.

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) will also cross honor and accept displayed MetroCards from customers traveling in both directions between Penn Station and Woodside.

For a complete schedule of work on the 7 line, visit http://web.mta.info/nyct/service/7Line2014/MakingProgressin2014.htm