What with the rain falling and the apocalypse nigh, things couldn't get much worse, right? Don't be so naive: this weekend the MTA is shutting down all service on the 7 between Times Square and Queensboro Plaza to address "a recent increase in signal-related delays" caused by "an aging signal system and water-related issues." As always, the MTA in its press release is asking "patience from customers," but for riders of the 7, that's like getting blood from a stone.
What makes shutdowns like these (oh I'm sorry, "these" refers to the other two weekends in which the same stretch of the 7 will be shutdown: June 24-27 and July 29-August 1) necessary are "tight tunnel clearances in the Steinway under river tunnels make this section of the line one of the most challenging areas in the system in which to work," and we're guessing to ride, too!
While the MTA "removes silt and muck from the roadbed," installs "a state-of the-art signaling system," and collects death threats from Queens residents, here's how you can get around the issues this weekend:
Take the E, N, R or F service for travel between Queens and Manhattan. Free shuttle buses will be available between the Queensboro Plaza (N, 7) and Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue (7) stations, making stops at Queens Plaza (E, R), 45th Road-Court House Square (E, 7) and Hunters Point Avenue (7). In addition, the Grand Central (S) shuttle will continue operating through the overnight hours.
