NYC Proposes 41-Mile Subway Expansion Over Free Buses

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A new report from the Transit Costs Project at NYU's Marron Institute of Urban Management proposes that New York City spend $1 billion per year on building over 41 miles of new subway and elevated transit lines over the next 40 years, rather than implementing a $1 billion per year free bus service program. The proposed subway expansion projects include a connection to LaGuardia Airport, an extension of the Second Avenue Subway, a new cross-Bronx line, and several extensions in Queens.

Why it matters

New York City has historically struggled with the high costs of subway construction, with recent projects costing over $2.5 billion per mile. This new proposal aims to deliver a more 'transformative' transit expansion at a lower cost, potentially providing more long-term benefits to the city than a free bus program.

The details

The Transit Costs Project report suggests that with an annual investment of $1 billion, New York City could build over 41 miles of new subway and elevated transit lines over the next 40 years. This would include projects like a subway connection to LaGuardia Airport, an extension of the Second Avenue Subway through Midtown East, a new cross-Bronx line, and several extensions to the far reaches of Queens. The researchers believe this expansion can be achieved for significantly less than the $2.5-$4 billion per mile costs of recent subway projects.

• The Transit Costs Project report was published on January 30, 2026.

What’s next

The city will need to evaluate the feasibility and costs of the proposed subway expansion projects compared to the free bus service program.