What we're doing
Starting May 2, 2025 and continuing through early 2027, there will be off-peak service changes at Kew Gardens, Forest Hills, and Woodside stations.
On many weekends from 11 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday, trains won't stop at Kew Gardens, Forest Hills, or Woodside in one direction. Woodside Station will always be served by Port Washington Branch trains in both directions during these weekends.
Starting on May 3 and continuing until new platforms are completed, all riders at Forest Hills will need to be in the first four cars to exit the train.
Work won't occur on every weekend, and the direction affected will vary throughout the project. There will be no work when there are events at Forest Hills Stadium or during the US Open. Check Planned Service Changes or Service Status for the latest updates.
Why we're doing it
As part of our efforts to improve accessibility on the LIRR, we're replacing the ramps, platforms, and walkways at Forest Hills Station. We will also be upgrading the waiting room and restrooms, installing additional stairs, and building a new ramp from Ascan Av to the westbound platform.
The new platforms will be 10 cars long and equipped with snow-melt systems, making the station easier to use and reducing delays throughout the LIRR network.
Travel options
During the affected weekends, the subway will accept LIRR tickets at the following stations:
- Kew Gardens-Union Tpke
- Forest Hills-71 Av
- Woodside-61 St
- 34 St-Penn Station (when eastbound trains aren't stopping)
- Grand Central-42 St (when eastbound trains aren't stopping)
- Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport (when westbound trains aren't stopping)
Show your LIRR ticket to the subway station agent for entry. Check Planned Service Changes for subway service changes that may affect your trip.
Riders at Woodside traveling to and from Manhattan can use Port Washington Branch service, which will continue to stop at all times.
Mets-Willets Point
Riders traveling between Long Island and Mets-Willets Point won't be able to transfer at Woodside for Port Washington Branch service on the affected weekends.
Your ticket will be accepted to remain on the train into Penn Station or Grand Central to board your eastbound train there. However, it may be faster to take the subway between Mets-Willets Point and Jamaica.