Forte Construction Opens Two New Elevators at 34th Street–Penn Station (A,C,E Line)

Forte Construction, serving as a subcontractor to the Design-Build Team of Lead Contractor Halmar International and Lead Designer Dewberry Engineers, is proud to announce the successful completion and commissioning of two new elevators at the 34th Street–Penn Station subway complex. This marks a significant achievement in the MTA’s ambitious accessibility initiative.

Elevators 227 and 228, were placed into service at the end of May as part of Phase 1 of the station’s elevator upgrade project. These newly commissioned elevators at the 34th Street–Penn Station subway complex are part of one of five stations Forte is rehabilitating as a key subcontractor to Halmar. This work is a component of MTA’s first Design-Build-Finance-Maintenance contract—Package 3, Contract A-37140—which includes the replacement of 14 elevators and installation of 21 brand-new ones across 13 stations in all four boroughs.

Phase 2 of the 34th Street–Penn Station project is already underway, focusing on the complete replacement of elevators EL 225 and EL 226, which are currently decommissioned and under construction. This comprehensive modernization initiative is designed to enhance accessibility for all transit users—particularly individuals with mobility impairments and those transporting heavy or bulky items—at one of the most heavily utilized stations in the subway network.

The work at Penn Station includes full replacement of the elevator machine rooms, cabs, mechanical systems, shafts, and pits. Additionally, new glazing enclosures and new tile finishes were installed, enhancing both access and visibility. Further infrastructure improvements were implemented to boost system reliability and security.

Forte Construction is proud to support a project of this scale and significance, partnering with Halmar and Dewberry Engineers, to deliver a successful outcome that enhances equity, accessibility, and everyday convenience for both New Yorkers and visitors.