QUEENS, NY — State Senator James Sanders Jr. joined Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) officials, fellow elected leaders, and community members on Thursday, July 2, to celebrate the completion of long-awaited accessibility improvements at the Locust Manor Long Island Rail Road Station—a transformative investment that will make commuting safer, easier, and more inclusive for thousands of Southeast Queens residents.

The project, which adds ADA-compliant elevators and other accessibility improvements, represents a significant milestone in improving transportation equity for seniors, people with disabilities, parents with strollers, veterans, and commuters carrying groceries or luggage. The improvements are part of the MTA's ongoing commitment to making more Long Island Railroad stations fully accessible.

"This is more than a ribbon-cutting," Senator Sanders said. "It is about restoring dignity. It is about ensuring that every resident—regardless of age or physical ability—can access public transportation safely and with independence."

Speaking during the ceremony, Senator Sanders reflected on the everyday challenges many residents have faced for years.

"Yes, we're a naturally occurring retirement community, but sometimes we have children that we have to take up these steps. Sometimes we have groceries that we're taking up or down, and sometimes we're just tired and don't want to struggle with these steps. And now you have a chance not to."

For years, community members advocated for accessibility improvements at Locust Manor Station, recognizing that equal access to transportation is essential to economic opportunity, healthcare, education, and quality of life. Senator Sanders has consistently championed investments that strengthen infrastructure while ensuring that government serves every resident.

"Transportation is the backbone of our community," Sanders continued. "When we invest in accessible transit, we invest in opportunity. We make it easier for people to get to work, attend school, visit family, access healthcare, and fully participate in community life."
The celebration brought together MTA leadership, public officials, local residents and stakeholders to recognize the completion of a project that will benefit generations of commuters throughout Southeast Queens.

Senator Sanders also emphasized that the work does not stop here.

"We will continue fighting for investments that modernize our transit system, improve accessibility, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure that Southeast Queens receives the attention and resources our residents deserve. Every neighborhood deserves safe, reliable, and accessible transportation."

As District 10 continues to grow, Senator Sanders reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for projects that improve mobility, support economic development, and enhance the daily lives of constituents.

"This project demonstrates what can happen when government, community advocates, and transportation leaders work together with a shared purpose. Today we celebrate progress—but tomorrow we continue the work."