Beach 67th Street Elevator Opens Doors to Accessibility and Opportunity in Far Rockaway

Rockaway Beach, NY – January 19, 2024 – Following the historic announcement of the Beach 67th Street ADA elevator earlier today, a vibrant celebration erupted, uniting elected officials, MTA representatives, and community members in an uplifting display of collective achievement. The press conference, attended by MTA Chair Janno Lieber, Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers, Senator James Sanders, and Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer-Amato, resonated with a chorus of voices finally heard and a future filled with boundless possibility.

This momentous occasion marked the culmination of Senator Sanders' relentless advocacy for equal access in Far Rockaway. His unyielding determination secured vital funding for the elevator, breaking down a physical barrier that had long divided the community. As Senator Sanders passionately declared, "This elevator isn't just nice to have, it is something we really need for the people of the Rockaways”.

Senator James Sanders Jr. said, "While I'm pleased to see the Beach 67th Street Elevators finally open, let's not forget the long wait and the countless hurdles faced by Rockaway residents. We must stay vigilant and ensure the timely completion of future projects. Reaching this milestone at Beach 67th Street is a reminder of the vital role public transportation plays in connecting people and opportunities. We must prioritize investments in accessible infrastructure across the city." 

“We know that through the years, our public transit system has too often failed New Yorkers with disabilities,” said NYC Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “But I want to commend the MTA for making meaningful progress toward improving subway accessibility in every corner of this city. For too many years, the Rockaways has not received its fair share of the City’s investment–in our healthcare, our schools, and our transit infrastructure. But the MTA is helping to remedy those historic inequalities with projects like this one. These investments help ensure Rockaway residents can access public transportation to get off the Peninsula.”

“This is a tremendous moment for the residents of the Rockaway Peninsula, especially here in Arverne. Through the installation of this elevator, we are empowering residents and giving everyone the opportunity to ride the subway. I thank the MTA for listening to the needs of the community and eliminating a physical obstacle. I look forward to seeing even more elevators installed in the years to come,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato

The joyous cheers at the celebration echoed through the Rockaway streets, carrying the promise of a future where accessibility is not a privilege, but a fundamental right. The Beach 67th Street elevator stands as a beacon of hope, reminding everyone that with unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit, even the most formidable barriers can be overcome.

                                                                                                                ###