Howard Beach Station serves as a key transfer point between New York City Transit’s Rockaway Line and AirTrain JFK, providing a vital connection between subway riders and one of the world’s busiest airports. To improve the passenger experience and strengthen this multimodal gateway in Queens, STV delivered architectural and engineering design services, as well as construction support services. The project introduced a modern station environment that draws inspiration from airport architecture, enhancing comfort, visibility and accessibility for travelers heading to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport.
What challenges did STV address?
The station required modernization to better support high volumes of airport‑bound passengers and create a more intuitive, comfortable environment. Integrating a contemporary design vocabulary into an existing subway station while maintaining full system operations posed logistical and architectural challenges, particularly around natural lighting, climate control and circulation.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV developed a station design that draws on the visual language of airport terminals, using extensive glass elements to maximize daylight and enhance wayfinding. The station is heated in winter and cooled in summer, improving year-round comfort for riders. STV provided comprehensive architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical and civil engineering services, along with construction support, to ensure seamless integration of new features into the active transit facility.
How does this project benefit the region?
The improved station enhances the traveler experience for riders transferring between the subway and AirTrain JFK, strengthens multimodal connectivity and supports efficient airport access for Queens residents and global visitors alike.
Key stats and accolades
- Architectural design inspired by airport terminal aesthetics
- Climate‑controlled station for enhanced passenger comfort
- Seamless connection between NYC Transit and AirTrain JFK
