F and M Train Riders Stressed by Subway Route Changes

Recent changes to New York City’s subway system have stirred mixed feelings among commuters, particularly those relying on the F and M lines. Starting Monday, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) implemented a switch involving the East River tunnels linking Manhattan and Queens. This change impacts stations along both lines.

Key Changes to the Subway System

The adjustments were made to alleviate a bottleneck affecting both the F and M lines, as well as the E and R lines. MTA officials claim the switch will enhance overall service, yet not all riders share this optimism.

Residents Voice Concerns

• Paul Krikler, a Roosevelt Island resident, expressed anxiety over potential confusion among passengers.
• Residents will find M service operating in place of the F line throughout most of the week.
• However, the schedule will revert to the old route on weekends and overnight, complicating late-night travel.

Krikler articulated his worries, stating, “I hope this change does bring us a much-needed improvement.” Many are concerned that the alterations may lead to riders ending up on the wrong train late at night.

Mixed Reactions to the F and M Train Switch

Patricia Mattocks, a Harlem resident, was vocal about her displeasure regarding the switch. Frequenting her father’s residence at the Queensbridge Houses, she commented on her distaste for the M line, criticizing the necessity of switching trains.

• “The M sucks. It sucks, period,” she asserted.

Nevertheless, MTA data from October reveals that while the F line has a 25% delay rate on weekdays, the M line reported just over 15%. Despite Mattocks’ apprehensions, transit officials are confident that service improvements will follow this switch.

Reasons for Optimism

The previous configuration required E, F, M, and R trains to intersect at Queens Plaza. Delays on one line often affected others, complicating commutes for many. MTA Chair Janno Lieber noted the benefits of the change, stating that the new setup is expected to result in less crowded trains for Roosevelt Island residents.

• “Folks in Roosevelt Island are going to get less crowded trains, whichever direction they head into,” Lieber remarked.
• The F train from Eastern Queens tends to be overcrowded during morning commutes.

While some commuters are adjusting to the new subway map design introduced earlier this year, the sudden change has raised additional concerns about map accuracy.

Long Island City resident Clay Wollner shared his frustration over needing to reprint a recently framed map of the transit system.

As the city navigates through this subway transition, the responses from riders on the F and M lines underscore a broader dialogue about public transportation and its impact on daily life.