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Atlantic Terminal
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Atlantic Terminal (formerly Flatbush Avenue) is the westernmost commuter rail terminal on the Long Island Rail Road's (LIRR) Atlantic Branch, located at Flatbush Avenue and Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Brooklyn, New York City. It is the primary terminal for the West Hempstead Branch, and a peak-hour terminal for some trains on the Hempstead Branch, Far Rockaway Branch, Port Jefferson Branch, Ronkonkoma Branch, and the Babylon Branch;[2] most other service is provided by frequent shuttles to Jamaica station. The terminal is located in the City Terminal Zone, the LIRR's Zone 1, and thus part of the CityTicket program.

Key Information

History

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19th century

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The station was originally named Brooklyn in 1852,[3] twenty years after the line was established as the Brooklyn and Jamaica Railroad, and was not originally a terminus.[3] The original terminus was South Ferry, via the now shuttered Cobble Hill Tunnel. When LIRR subsidiary New York and Jamaica Railroad built a new line between Hunter's Point and Jamaica in 1861, the main line was relocated there, and the line was abandoned west of East New York, in compliance with Brooklyn's ban on steam railroads. West of East New York, the tracks were taken over by horse car lines.

The Brooklyn station designation was replaced by the Flatbush Avenue station on July 2, 1877. That same summer local Atlantic Avenue rapid transit trains began to stop there on August 13.[4] The old depot was renovated between July–August 1878, when it began serving the Brooklyn, Flatbush and Coney Island Railroad. It was rebuilt again in June 1880. The headquarters for the Long Island Express Company was installed there in 1882, and gave the station a series of tracks that would later be known as the "EX Yard." In 1888, the Union Elevated Railway built an elevated railway line and station that connected to the LIRR station called the Atlantic Avenue station. The Union Elevated eventually became part of the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit Corporation. Further rebuilding took place again in 1893.

20th century

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Between 1904 and 1906, the Carlton Avenue Freight Yards were replaced by the Vanderbilt Avenue Freight Yards. This was just a portion of a major improvement project that included the complete reconstruction of the station. The second depot opened on April 1, 1907, with the depot at street level and the tracks installed underground. The station had a lobby that was larger than most LIRR stations, and contained subway type entrances to the tracks.[5] It also served as a post office building until 1925,[6] and contained a baggage depot, express buildings, some meat houses which were inherited from the previous version of the station, and a merchandise terminal for "less than carload freight" added on in 1908. The Interborough Rapid Transit Company built a subway line called the Eastern Parkway Line and a station on Atlantic Avenue, that connected to the station on May 1, 1908. The BMT also built two more subway lines on Pacific Street along the Fourth Avenue Line on June 22, 1915, and Atlantic Avenue along the Brighton Line on August 1, 1920. The connection to the BMT Fifth Avenue Line was lost on May 31, 1940.[7]

Interior of the station, c. 1893

The station was refurbished and the exterior was sandblasted in the early 1940s. The decline of rail service after World War II led to the station's gradual demise, however. Track #1 was out of service on April 10, 1959. Former express tracks numbers 9–14 ("EX" Yard) were taken out of service on March 3, 1971. At some point, the express buildings became a parking garage. Local businesses were still allowed to utilize the station, such as a barber shop, restaurants, candy stores, a snack bar, a podiatrist's office, a dental office, a beauty school, and even a row of telephone booths. Those businesses were gone by 1978. The tracks that were originally numbered from south to north were renumbered from north to south on July 1, 1978. Despite efforts to repaint the lobby in the early-1980s, random vandalism plagued the station interior causing water damage that was so severe, the street level depot was closed in 1988,[8] and portions were razed during the 1990s.

21st century

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The MTA approved plans in March 1998 to renovate the Atlantic Avenue–Pacific Street subway station and the adjoining LIRR terminal, as well as build the Atlantic Terminal shopping mall above the station.[9] Work on the stations' renovation began in 2000, and work on the shopping mall commenced the next year.[10] On January 5, 2010, a new entry pavilion, designed by di Domenico + Partners, opened, providing improved connections between the LIRR, subways, and buses.[11] In March 2010, the station was renamed Atlantic Terminal after a six-year reconstruction project,[12] during which trains continued to operate.

In 2014, the LIRR announced that service from Babylon and Hicksville would go directly to Atlantic Terminal during New York Islanders games at Barclays Center. Passengers previously had to transfer at Jamaica to go to Babylon or Hicksville.[13]

Since the opening of Grand Central Madison and the introduction of new schedules in February 2023, most service to Atlantic Terminal has been provided by a high-frequency shuttle service to and from Jamaica.[14]

2017 accident

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During the morning rush hour of January 4, 2017, a train overran the bumper block at the end of track 6, injuring 103, none seriously.[15][16] There were 650 passengers on the train, which had originated from Far Rockaway.[17] The accident occurred at about 8:20 a.m. Two cars of the six-car M7 electric multiple unit train involved were severely damaged when it collided with the bumper at a speed of 10 to 15 miles per hour (16 to 24 km/h).[15][17] The incident was compared to a September 2016 train crash at Hoboken Terminal in Hoboken, New Jersey, wherein a train also overran a bumper block.[15]

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Railway Administration opened investigations into the accident.[15] On February 6, 2018, the NTSB released their Railroad Safety Brief on the accident. They determined the probable cause to be the engineer falling asleep due to chronic fatigue. The chronic fatigue was in part attributed to undiagnosed sleep apnea.[18]

Station layout

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The LIRR terminal, one floor below the ground level, has three high-level island platforms adjacent to six tracks. Platform A is ten cars long, but the two easternmost cars on Track 1 are not accessible due to a large gap between the train and the platform. Platform B is eight cars long. Platform C is six cars long, but Track 6 only has enough space for four cars to meet the platform as it is adjacent to the northbound local platform of the IRT Eastern Parkway Line.

Ground Street level Entrances/exits, pavilion, station house, fare control, station agents, LIRR ticket booth, MetroCard and OMNY machines
Barclays Center
Connection to Atlantic Terminal shopping mall
Basement 1
Eastern Parkway platforms 		Side platform Disabled access
Northbound local ← "2" train toward Wakefield–241st Street (Nevins Street)
← "3" train toward Harlem–148th Street (Nevins Street)
← "4" train toward Woodlawn late nights (Nevins Street)
Northbound express ← "4" train toward Woodlawn (Nevins Street)
← "5" train weekdays toward Dyre Avenue or Nereid Avenue (Nevins Street)
Island platform Disabled access
Southbound express "4" train toward Crown Heights–Utica Avenue (New Lots Avenue select rush hour trips) (Franklin Avenue–Medgar Evers College) →
"5" train weekdays toward Flatbush Avenue–Brooklyn College (Franklin Avenue–Medgar Evers College) →
Southbound local "2" train toward Flatbush Avenue–Brooklyn College (Bergen Street) →
"3" train ("4" train late nights) toward New Lots Avenue (Bergen Street) →
Side platform Disabled access
Basement 1
LIRR platforms 		Track 1      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Platform A, island platform Disabled access
Track 2      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Track 3      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Platform B, island platform Disabled access
Track 4      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Track 5      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Platform C, island platform Disabled access
Track 6      Atlantic Branch services toward Jamaica and points east (Nostrand Avenue) →
Basement 2 Mezzanine Passageway between platforms
Basement 3
Brighton platform 		Northbound ← "B" train weekdays toward Bedford Park Boulevard or 145th Street (DeKalb Avenue)
← "Q" train toward 96th Street (DeKalb Avenue)
Island platform Disabled access
Southbound "B" train weekdays toward Brighton Beach (Seventh Avenue) →
"Q" train toward Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue via Brighton (Seventh Avenue) →
Basement 3
Fourth Avenue platforms 		Northbound local ← "R" train toward Forest Hills–71st Avenue (Whitehall Street–South Ferry late nights) (DeKalb Avenue)

← "D" train toward Norwood–205th Street late nights (DeKalb Avenue)
← "N" train toward Astoria–Ditmars Boulevard late nights (DeKalb Avenue)
← "W" train toward Astoria–Ditmars Boulevard (select weekday trips) (DeKalb Avenue)

Island platform Disabled access
Northbound express ← "D" train toward Norwood–205th Street (Grand Street)
← "N" train toward Astoria–Ditmars Boulevard or 96th Street (select weekday trips) (Canal Street)
Southbound express "D" train toward Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue via West End (36th Street) →
"N" train toward Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue via Sea Beach (36th Street) →
Island platform Disabled access
Southbound local "R" train toward Bay Ridge–95th Street (Union Street) →
"D" train"N" train toward Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue late nights (Union Street)→
"W" train toward 86th Street (select weekday trips) (Union Street) →

Subway and bus connections

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Atlantic Terminal is connected to the New York City Subway's Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center complex, which is served by the 2, ​3, ​4, ​5​, B, ​D, N, ​Q​, R and ​W​ trains.[19] Buses serving outside the complex include B41, B45, B63, B65, B67, and B103.[20]

Nearby points of interest

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The rail terminal is adjacent to and below the Atlantic Terminal mall and near the Barclays Center, Brooklyn Academy of Music and the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower, as well as Brooklyn Technical High School.

The massive Pacific Park residential, commercial and sports complex, which includes Barclays Center, is being built near the station and above its yard tracks.[21]

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  • Atlantic Terminal LIRR station
  • 1910 photo of the former LIRR Flatbush Avenue station (demolished 1988)
    1910 photo of the former LIRR Flatbush Avenue station (demolished 1988)
  • Looking down Platform A. A train to Far Rockaway is on the right
    Looking down Platform A. A train to Far Rockaway is on the right
  • Looking down Platform C
    Looking down Platform C
  • Looking down to track level in the entry pavilion
    Looking down to track level in the entry pavilion

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Atlantic Terminal

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Atlantic Terminal is a prominent multimodal transportation and retail complex located in , , at the intersection of Flatbush Avenue and Atlantic Avenue. It functions as the western terminus of the Long Island Rail Road's (LIRR) Atlantic Branch, providing commuter rail service to and , while also integrating with multiple lines and bus routes, making it one of the busiest transit hubs in the region. Above the station lies the Atlantic Terminal Mall, a five-level opened in 2004 that anchors the adjacent Atlantic Center development, offering over 35 retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. As a transit facility, Atlantic Terminal serves LIRR trains from Penn Station and , with platforms accessible via elevators, tactile warning strips, and audiovisual announcements to support riders with disabilities. The station connects directly to the Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center subway complex, which handles lines including the 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, and , as well as several MTA bus routes such as the B37, B41, and B67. This integration facilitates seamless transfers for tens of thousands of daily passengers, contributing to the area's role as a vital gateway between and . The terminal's design emphasizes efficiency and , with ticket offices, vending machines, and waiting areas operational from early morning to late evening. The commercial component, Atlantic Terminal Mall, spans approximately 370,000 square feet and features anchor tenants like Target and , alongside specialty shops such as , , and DSW, as well as family-oriented spots like Chuck E. Cheese's. Dining options range from quick-service eateries to casual restaurants, supporting the mall's function as a leisure destination in the heart of Brooklyn's growing . Owned and managed by Madison International Realty, the mall celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024, reflecting its evolution amid Downtown Brooklyn's urban renewal and economic expansion. Its proximity to and other cultural sites enhances its appeal as a multifaceted hub for , transit, and activities. The site's history dates back to the 1830s, when the intersection first hosted an LIRR terminal as part of early rail development in Brooklyn. The original station, opened in 1852 and initially named Brooklyn, underwent several rebuilds, including a wooden structure in the 1840s, a brick building in the 1870s, and a grand Beaux-Arts edifice in 1907. The 1907 terminal was demolished in 1988 amid urban redevelopment plans, leading to the current underground station and integrated mall, which opened in phases starting in 2004 for the retail portion and fully in 2010 for the transit upgrades after construction delays. This modern iteration symbolizes Brooklyn's transformation into a dynamic urban center, blending 19th-century rail heritage with 21st-century commercial vitality.

History

19th-century origins

The origins of Atlantic Terminal trace back to the early development of rail infrastructure in , beginning with the incorporation of the Brooklyn and Jamaica Railroad on April 25, 1832, to construct a 10-mile line connecting the City of to on . This railroad, the first on , opened for service on April 18, 1836, running along what is now Atlantic Avenue from a terminal at the foot of Atlantic Street (near the modern Pacific Street) to , facilitating initial passenger and freight transport between and eastern communities. The line's establishment supported the growing demand for reliable connections to via , serving both local commuters and regional commerce in an era when rail was rapidly expanding as a key economic driver. In 1836, the newly formed Company leased the Brooklyn and Jamaica Railroad for $33,300 annually, integrating it into its network to extend services eastward toward Greenport and beyond, marking the beginning of the LIRR's dominance in the region. This merger allowed the LIRR to operate the line as its Atlantic Branch, with surface-level tracks laid at grade along Atlantic Avenue, exposed to street traffic and grade crossings that characterized early 19th-century rail operations. The surface configuration enabled efficient handling of both passenger trains to destinations and freight services, including goods transport vital to 's burgeoning industrial and port economy, though it also posed safety challenges from shared roadways. By the mid-1870s, as Brooklyn's population and rail needs grew, the LIRR relocated its western terminus eastward to better serve expanding urban areas, opening the first station on July 2, 1877, at the intersection of Flatbush and Atlantic Avenues. This new station became the primary endpoint for the Atlantic Branch, reintroducing steam-powered services that extended directly into central Brooklyn and connected to Long Island's freight yards and passenger routes, enhancing accessibility for residents and businesses. The move reflected the LIRR's strategic shift toward deeper integration with Brooklyn's street grid, with the station's simple wooden structure accommodating surface tracks that handled mixed traffic until later modifications. A pivotal figure in advancing the LIRR's Brooklyn ambitions was Austin Corbin, who acquired control of the railroad in 1880 and served as its president until 1896, overseeing expansions that solidified the Atlantic Branch's role in regional connectivity. Under Corbin's leadership, the line saw improvements in capacity for both passenger excursions and freight hauling, positioning as a crucial hub despite ongoing challenges with at-grade operations.

20th-century expansions

In the early , the (LIRR) modernized the Atlantic Branch to accommodate growing urban demand in , beginning with efforts. On July 26, 1905, the line was electrified using a 600 V DC third rail system, transitioning from steam-powered operations to electric multiple units for more efficient service to the terminal. This upgrade, part of broader LIRR initiatives to subterranean infrastructure in densely populated areas, reduced surface congestion and smoke pollution near the station. Reconstruction followed swiftly to integrate these changes, transforming the terminal from its 19th-century at-grade configuration. By 1907, the LIRR completed a major overhaul, depressing the tracks underground while elevating the passenger facilities to street level in a new Beaux-Arts-style building at and Atlantic Avenue. The revamped terminal opened on April 1, 1907, featuring expanded platforms, better connectivity to elevated lines, and a grand waiting room to handle increased commuter volumes. This project, planned since 1902, positioned the station as Brooklyn's primary rail hub, linking to the emerging IRT subway system by 1908. World War II temporarily boosted operations at the terminal, as became essential for moving troops, freight, and wartime passengers amid fuel rationing and highway restrictions. However, post-war prosperity accelerated a sharp decline in ridership, with the rise of automobiles and suburban sprawl diverting commuters away from rail lines like the Atlantic Branch. By the 1950s, platforms at Flatbush Avenue Terminal fell into disuse, and service frequencies were cut, reflecting the LIRR's broader financial strains from deferred maintenance and competition. Track 1 was decommissioned in 1959, symbolizing the station's diminishing role. Throughout the century, the facility retained its designation as , a name adopted in without significant changes despite evolving urban contexts. Amid redevelopment efforts in , the 1907 structure—long neglected and structurally compromised—was demolished in 1988 to clear space for mixed-use projects, including office towers and improved transit access. The Public Development Corporation oversaw the razing, marking the end of an era for the once-grand neo-Renaissance building.

21st-century reconstructions

The original Flatbush Avenue Terminal, a Beaux-Arts structure completed in 1907, was demolished in 1988 amid plans for broader redevelopment in , leaving the site with only underground tracks and makeshift facilities for ongoing rail service. Following precursor expansions in the that had elevated tracks and added platforms, the comprehensive reconstruction of the terminal commenced in 2004, spanning six years while trains operated from a temporary above-ground structure of steel and concrete to maintain service continuity. The $108 million project delivered a modern underground station with enhanced platforms and the new above-ground , which opened on , 2010, providing improved lighting, escalators, and direct access to adjacent transit; the facility was officially renamed Atlantic Terminal effective March 8, 2010. This rebuilding effort formed a key element of in the area, integrating the LIRR terminus with surrounding developments through pedestrian pathways and shared . As part of the Atlantic Yards initiative—a $4.9 billion mixed-use project led by Forest City Ratner—the reconstructed terminal connected directly to the arena, which opened on September 28, , facilitating efficient access for event attendees via underground passages and surface-level links to subway and bus lines. The enhanced hub supported rising commuter demand, with LIRR boardings at Atlantic Terminal increasing to 36,901 total and 21,829 on weekdays from to 2014, underscoring the station's role in regional connectivity.

Recent developments (2010–2025)

In the years following the 2010 reopening of its modernized pavilion, Atlantic Terminal experienced ongoing enhancements to its rail services and facilities, building on the foundational reconstructions of the early to better integrate with surrounding commercial and event-driven activity in . In 2014, the (LIRR) introduced enhanced service patterns, including direct trains from the and Hicksville branches to Atlantic Terminal specifically for events at the nearby , such as games, to accommodate increased ridership without requiring transfers at . This adjustment marked an early post-reopening effort to leverage the terminal's proximity to the arena, which opened in 2012, by streamlining access for fans from Long Island's southern and central branches. Service expansions continued with timetable adjustments effective February 27, 2023, as part of the LIRR's transition to full operations at . These changes increased weekday rush-hour service to Manhattan terminals, with trains on branches like Hempstead and Far Rockaway now splitting between Penn Station and Grand Central, while eliminating scheduled connections at to improve overall efficiency. Additionally, Jamaica shuttle frequencies were optimized by having all trains stop there for seamless cross-branch transfers, reducing wait times and enhancing connectivity to Atlantic Terminal for Brooklyn-bound passengers. Parallel to these operational updates, the station pavilion and adjacent Atlantic Terminal Mall underwent ongoing renovations in the early , encompassing structural improvements, tenant fit-outs, and plaza enhancements to support growing foot traffic. These upgrades, estimated at approximately $50 million, aimed to modernize the 760,000-square-foot complex amid its role as a hub for 13 million annual subway riders near . By 2024–2025, the terminal's commercial synergies reached new milestones, highlighted by the Atlantic Terminal Mall's 20th anniversary celebration in December 2024, which featured a gala attended by local leaders and members to reflect on its evolution as a retail anchor. In June 2025, a major Nike store opened at Atlantic Center within the mall, spanning 16,000 square feet and billed as the brand's largest full-priced location in outside , further boosting the site's appeal as a destination for and transit.

Station Design and Layout

Platforms and infrastructure

Atlantic Terminal features three high-level island platforms serving six tracks, all situated underground on a single level approximately 20 feet below street level. This configuration allows for efficient handling of peak-hour traffic on the Atlantic Branch, with platforms designed to accommodate up to 10-car . The tracks, numbered 1 through 6 from south to north, are equipped with bumper blocks at their western ends to halt incoming safely. is provided by a 750 V DC system, standard for the LIRR's electrified lines including the Atlantic Branch. Access to the platforms is primarily through the main entrance pavilion at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and , which connects directly to the station via escalators and stairs. Additional street-level connections include entrances from the adjacent Atlantic Terminal Mall and nearby sidewalks along Ashland Place and Hanson Place, facilitating seamless integration with the surrounding urban environment. The station's infrastructure was reconstructed in the early , incorporating the historic right-of-way, which includes cut-and-cover sections dating back to the for . This design ensures structural stability while supporting current operations.

Accessibility features

Atlantic Terminal achieved full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) following its 2010 reconstruction, which incorporated elevators providing vertical access from street level to all platforms. These elevators, along with tactile warning strips installed along platform edges, ensure safe navigation for passengers with mobility or visual impairments, meeting federal standards for key transit stations. To support users with visual impairments, the station features signage on directional and informational displays, audible announcements integrated into the passenger information systems, and high-contrast markings on key surfaces for better visibility. These elements, standard in MTA's accessible facilities, facilitate independent travel and reduce barriers during high-traffic periods. Accessible amenities include ADA-compliant restrooms equipped with grab bars and wide stalls, waiting areas available daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and information kiosks with ticket machines at platform level designed for easy reach by all users. In 2023, the waiting area was renovated with brighter lighting, new benches, an updated information desk, and improved restrooms. The station's platforms, integrated with these features, are sufficiently wide to handle peak-hour crowds while allowing ample space for wheelchairs and strollers, promoting inclusive access for diverse passengers.

Architectural elements

The Atlantic Terminal pavilion, designed by the architecture firm di Domenico + Partners, LLP, represents a modernist entry structure that opened in January 2010 as part of the terminal's modernization efforts. This three-story pavilion features a soaring, light-filled atrium with wide staircases and a glazed curtain wall system, creating an open and navigable space that draws commuters into the underground platforms while emphasizing transparency and visual connectivity. The design prioritizes clarity and ease of orientation, serving as a flagship element for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) transit infrastructure in Brooklyn. Key materials in the include a combination of walls, framing, , and cladding, selected for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding urban environment. The panels on the walls help control solar heat gain, while the stone elements provide a grounded, monumental presence that complements Downtown Brooklyn's evolving skyline of mixed historic and contemporary buildings. Positioned at the convergence of Atlantic Avenue, , and Fourth Avenue, the pavilion functions as a pivotal urban gateway, anchoring the transportation hub and facilitating seamless integration with adjacent developments in the area. Its corner placement enhances pedestrian flow and visibility, contributing to the revitalization of this high-traffic intersection as a central node in Brooklyn's civic and commercial landscape. Sustainability features incorporated into the pavilion include the extensive use of natural daylight through the atrium and curtain walls, which reduces reliance on artificial lighting, alongside and external fins that minimize heat gain and associated energy demands for cooling. These elements align with broader MTA goals for efficient public infrastructure.

Transportation Services

Long Island Rail Road operations

Atlantic Terminal functions as the primary terminus for the Long Island Rail Road's , where trains operate directly between the branch's eastern endpoint and the station throughout the day. Off-peak shuttle services from to Atlantic Terminal run every 15–20 minutes on weekdays, providing reliable connectivity for commuters traveling to . During peak hours, LIRR service at Atlantic Terminal is expanded with direct extensions from Hempstead (full service) and limited peak-hour trains from Far Rockaway and branches; these enhancements, which originated in 2014 and were further developed through 2023, allow for increased direct access to without transfers at for rush-hour riders. Peak frequencies reach up to every 12 minutes in the morning and every 10–20 minutes in the evening, accommodating high demand during commute times. The station serves as the terminus for Atlantic Branch services and select peak extensions to Brooklyn, reflecting its role as a key entry point for -bound passengers based on post-2023 MTA ridership trends.

Subway and bus connections

Atlantic Terminal provides direct intermodal connections to the New York City Subway via an underground passageway leading to the adjacent complex. This subway hub is served by ten lines: the 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains on the ; the B and Q trains on the ; and the D, N, R, and W trains on the . These connections enable efficient transfers for passengers arriving by , with the passageway integrating directly into the station's mezzanine levels. Bus services further enhance the terminal's role in regional commuting, with multiple MTA routes stopping at nearby curbside locations along Atlantic Avenue and . Key routes include the B41 (to and Cadman Plaza), B45 (to ), B63 (to Bay Ridge), B65 (to Crown Heights), B67 (to Greenpoint), and B103 (express to Canarsie). These buses complement subway options by offering access to local neighborhoods and supporting peak-hour flows into and out of the Brooklyn area. Transfer efficiency between LIRR and subway services is supported by shared fare control areas within the complex, allowing seamless movement without street exposure. Paid transfer policies apply, as LIRR tickets do not include subway or bus fares; passengers must pay separately using or , though the CityTicket program offers discounted $5 off-peak or $7 peak fares for intra-New York City LIRR travel, facilitating cost-effective connections. The hub's interconnectivity accommodates over 100,000 daily transit users as of 2025, underscoring its importance as a major commuting gateway amid recovering post-pandemic ridership trends across the MTA network.

Incidents and

2017 accident

On January 4, 2017, during the morning , (LIRR) train 2817, a six-car passenger train originating from Far Rockaway in , overran the bumper blocks at the end of track 6 in Atlantic Terminal, , New York. The train, carrying approximately 600 to 700 passengers, derailed and the lead car crashed into a platform and adjacent station structure, causing significant disruption at the busy terminal. No fatalities occurred, but 108 people were injured, with injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious cases like broken bones; 106 individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation determined that the primary cause was the engineer falling asleep due to chronic fatigue from undiagnosed severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Contributing factors included the LIRR's lack of routine OSA screening for safety-sensitive employees and inadequate rest provisions for the engineer, who had worked extended shifts the previous day. Additionally, signal system limitations played a role: the train received a 5 mph restrictive approach signal, but the Automatic Train Control (ATC) system only enforced a 15 mph speed limit, allowing the train to accelerate to about 13 mph at impact; no Positive Train Control (PTC) was implemented at the terminal to prevent overruns. The NTSB found no defects in the track, signals, or rolling stock. In the immediate aftermath, passengers experienced chaos, with reports of smoke filling the cars and the train tilting, complicating evacuation efforts; many walked out unassisted, while others required stretchers or wheelchairs. Emergency responders, including personnel, arrived quickly to assist, and Governor visited the scene to oversee the response. The incident caused temporary suspension of LIRR service into and out of Atlantic Terminal, disrupting commutes for thousands of passengers during peak hours and requiring rerouting via subway connections. The NTSB and launched investigations on site. Damage to the train, platform, and concourse totaled approximately $5.3 million, leading to repairs that were completed by mid-2017 to restore full operations. The , which operates the LIRR, faced multiple lawsuits from injured passengers seeking compensation for medical costs, pain, and lost wages; notable settlements included $9 million awarded to one passenger in 2020. In response to NTSB recommendations, the LIRR implemented OSA screening for locomotive engineers starting April 17, 2017, during recertification testing, and the MTA expanded such screenings agency-wide to address fatigue risks. These changes contributed to broader improvements, including enhanced crew monitoring protocols.

Safety measures and improvements

Prior to the 2017 derailment at Atlantic Terminal, the (LIRR) had implemented (ATC) signals to enforce speed limits on approaches to the station, a system in place since the mid-20th century and governing movements into the terminal. The 2017 derailment served as a catalyst for enhanced safety protocols at the terminal. In response, the LIRR upgraded crew monitoring procedures, including requirements for constant communication between engineers and conductors during terminal approaches, as recommended by prior safety assessments. (PTC) was fully implemented across the LIRR system, including Atlantic Terminal, by December 2020, providing automated enforcement to prevent and signal violations. The railroad also introduced annual safety drills for personnel, incorporating scenario-based training on emergency response and track protection at key terminals like Atlantic Terminal. As of 2025, the LIRR maintains compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations at Atlantic Terminal, including dedicated emergency evacuation paths from platforms to street level and comprehensive CCTV coverage throughout the station for real-time monitoring and incident response. To prevent incidents related to human factors, the LIRR revised its fatigue management policies following National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommendations from the 2017 investigation, mandating obstructive sleep apnea screening for all locomotive engineers starting in April 2017 and integrating fatigue risk assessments into operational guidelines. These measures, including limits on work hours and mandatory rest periods, align with FRA's broader Fatigue Risk Management Program requirements adopted in 2022.

Surrounding Area and Developments

Atlantic Terminal Mall

The Atlantic Terminal Mall, located in , , opened on September 7, 2004, as a 370,000-square-foot retail complex built directly above the Long Island Rail Road's Atlantic Terminal station. Developed by Forest City Ratner Companies, the five-story mall was designed to integrate seamlessly with the transportation hub, providing convenient access for commuters and enhancing the area's commercial vitality. Initially featuring anchors like Target, which occupies nearly half the space across three levels, the development marked a significant effort in the neighborhood. The mall hosts approximately 35 stores and dining options, catering to a diverse mix of shoppers with retailers such as , , , and . Notable additions include the nearby at 123 , offering product support and sessions since 2017, and Target as a longstanding anchor since opening. In June 2025, Nike launched a 16,000-square-foot flagship store at the adjacent Atlantic Center—part of the combined Atlantic Terminal & Center complex—described as the brand's largest full-priced location in outside , featuring sneakers, apparel, and sport innovations. In December 2024, the mall commemorated its 20th anniversary with celebrations attended by local leaders and community members, emphasizing Downtown Brooklyn's evolution into a thriving retail destination amid broader urban growth. Ongoing $50 million renovation plans, extending through 2025, focus on upgrades to common areas, tenant spaces, and digital enhancements to improve visitor experience and maintain competitiveness.

Barclays Center and Pacific Park

The , a multi-purpose indoor arena in , New York, opened on September 28, 2012, serving as the primary home for the of the since its inception as a franchise in Brooklyn. The venue served as the home of the National Hockey League's from the 2015–16 season to the 2020–21 season, following their temporary relocation from on ; the team now plays at . Designed with a of 17,732 for and similar events, the arena hosts a wide array of concerts, matches, and other entertainment, accommodating up to 19,000 for certain configurations while emphasizing its role as a cultural and sports hub adjacent to the . Pacific Park, formerly known as Atlantic Yards, encompasses a 22-acre site in , featuring residential towers, office spaces, and public parks integrated around the . The project, approved in 2006, plans for a total of 6,430 housing units, including 2,250 affordable rentals, alongside commercial and recreational amenities, with construction phased from 2010 onward under initial developers Forest City Ratner and later Greenland Forest City Partners. By mid-2025, eight residential towers and the arena have been completed, delivering over half of the planned units and enhancing local green spaces, though full build-out has faced delays due to financial challenges. Direct pedestrian connections link the and to Atlantic Terminal, with the LIRR station situated directly across , allowing seamless access via sidewalks, signage, and accessible pathways for event attendees. Since 2014, the has provided enhanced special services for Barclays Center events, including additional late-night trains from Atlantic Terminal to accommodate crowds, particularly for concerts and other gatherings, operating every 15 to 25 minutes post-event. As of November 2025, Pacific Park's development is accelerating under a new master development team led by Cirrus Real Estate Partners and LCOR, in partnership with and U.S. Immigration Fund, following a transition from Forest City Partners amid prior stalls. In October 2025, the joint venture assumed rights to the remaining sites, committing $12 million to an fund and preparing groundbreaking for additional residential buildings, contributing to increased with nearly 3,000 units now occupied. This progress positions the site for substantial completion of remaining phases by the early 2030s, bolstering Brooklyn's residential and entertainment landscape.

Other nearby attractions

Fort Greene Park, located approximately 0.5 miles north of Atlantic Terminal, is a 19th-century green space established in 1847 as one of Brooklyn's first public parks, offering rolling hills, mature trees, and panoramic views of the borough. The park's centerpiece is the , a 149-foot Doric column completed in 1908 to honor the estimated 11,500 American prisoners who died on British ships during the Revolutionary War, with a crypt containing their remains discovered in the early 1800s. This historic site draws visitors for its blend of natural respite and solemn commemoration, enhancing the area's appeal as a cultural hub accessible via the terminal's subway and bus connections. The (BAM), situated about 0.3 miles east of Atlantic Terminal at 30 Lafayette Avenue, is the oldest continuously operating in the United States, founded in 1861 to present theater, , , and . BAM's Howard Gilman Opera House and BAM Rose Cinemas host innovative programming, including avant-garde works and international festivals, attracting over 500,000 patrons annually and fostering Brooklyn's reputation for artistic excellence. Its proximity to the terminal facilitates easy access for audiences arriving by rail or subway, integrating it into the neighborhood's vibrant cultural fabric. Nearby historic sites include the , a 512-foot landmark completed in 1929 at 1 Hanson Place, which served as Brooklyn's tallest building until 2010 and features a gilded dome and intricate marble interiors designated as landmarks in 1966 and 1996. Remnants of early rail infrastructure, such as the 1844 Atlantic Avenue Tunnel—rediscovered in 1980 and once used for freight trains—underscore the area's transportation heritage dating back to the . These structures highlight Atlantic Terminal's role in Brooklyn's industrial past, drawing history enthusiasts who utilize the station's services for exploration. The annual Atlantic Antic festival, held on Atlantic Avenue from 4th Avenue to Hicks Street, leverages the terminal's transit hub to welcome over 200,000 visitors for Brooklyn's largest street fair, featuring ethnic foods, arts, crafts, live music, and family activities since its in 1975. This event, marking its 50th anniversary on October 5, 2025, boosts local tourism by providing direct rail and subway access, connecting attractions like and BAM to a broader influx of out-of-town guests.

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