South Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato proudly announced that she has secured $100,000 in State funding for QueensLink as part of the newly passed New York State Budget. The funding serves as a matching contribution for the Reconnecting Communities Grant from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) which will evaluate the social, environmental, and economic impacts of its proposed “rails and trails” project. The QueensLink vision would reactivate the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch train line to create the borough’s first true north-south subway connection, alongside new bike and pedestrian greenways. This would bring better mobility, cleaner air, and revitalized local economies to neighborhoods long left behind in transit planning.

“I’m thrilled to deliver this funding to support a project that has the power to reshape transit, boost local economies, and enhance the quality of life for families across Queens. QueensLink is more than just a transportation plan—it’s about connection, opportunity, and progress for our communities,” said the Assemblywoman. Pheffer Amato. “I want to sincerely thank NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie for his continued commitment to investing in Queens, along with his strong leadership and support throughout the budget process.”

A Request for Proposals (RFP) for the initial phase of the study is expected in June 2025 and will include analysis of how QueensLink could shorten commutes, generate jobs, and reconnect isolated neighborhoods. QueensLink is now better positioned than ever to bring its ambitious vision to life – uniting communities, improving transit access, and building a more connected future for Queens.