New Yorkers are freaking out that Amazon's HQ2 could cripple the subway system, but the reality is more complicated

pulse

November 7, 2018 10:16 PM

Amazon has chosen Long Island City, Queens, as one of two sites for HQ2. It could have major subway implications.

Passengers wait for a train to leave the station in New York City.

chosen Long Island City, Queens
HQ2
expressed concern
influx of new commuters
25,000 Amazon employees
$37 billion renewal
fallen to the state

Amazon has decided on two locations for its second headquarters: Long Island City, Queens, and the

Initially, Amazon That would have brought 50,000 new jobs and add

Before word surfaced about Amazon's choice, New York City had a plan for its deteriorating subway.

In May, the Metropolitan Transit Authority revealed a $37 billion strategy to install a new signal system across multiple lines, add thousands of new subway cars, and renovate old cars. The plan also included an updated fare method and

There was just one question: Who would fund it?

Dont count on Amazon

Even if HQ2 does lead to major overcrowding and delays on the subway, it's unlikely that Amazon will help finance the MTA's multi-billion-dollar overhaul strategy.

ity. The new station could benefit Amazon employees, but tack on even more to the city's transit expenditures.

To its credit, Amazon hasn't shied away from transit investments in the past.

As the company expanded its workforce in Seattle (where the first HQ is located) to more than 45,000 employees, commute times for locals have grown longer. Last year, The Atlantic's Ronald Brownstein reported that Seattle was adding 60 people daily to its population — the most rapid increase the city has seen since the Gold Rush. Seattle now has around 61,000 "super commuters," or people who spend at least 90 minutes traveling to work each day.

Amazon has helped out with a few transit investments — most notably, the purchase of a $5.5 million streetcar add more stations and light rail options by 2041.

solicitation for HQ2

Even when combined, these investments fall short of the $37 billion required to ease pressure in New York City. With the city expected to become more congested, that number could climb even higher.

While Amazon may not destroy the subway in the way that some New Yorkers anticipate, it's not poised to save the system, either.

pulse