Travelers using Port Authority of New York and New Jersey facilities from September 2 to 4 are being advised to plan ahead due to ongoing construction, lane closures, and changes in airport operations. The agency recommends that all travelers allow for additional travel time and consider using mass transit options.
Major construction is underway at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as part of a $19 billion redevelopment project aimed at transforming the airport with new terminals, local concessions, family-friendly amenities, and improved air travel experiences. This work has resulted in detours and closures on parts of the airport roadway network. The Port Authority encourages travelers to use AirTrain JFK, MTA subway or buses, or Long Island Rail Road services for access to the airport. Trains run every 20 minutes from Grand Central Terminal or Penn Station to Jamaica station for connections to AirTrain JFK.
For motorists driving to JFK, the agency suggests using the free drop-off, pickup, and waiting lot at AirTrain JFK’s Lefferts Boulevard station. Passengers can park or be dropped off there and take an eight-minute ride on the free AirTrain to their terminal.
Several changes have been made regarding vehicle pickups at JFK terminals:
– At Terminal 4, for-hire vehicle pickups have moved to Lot 66 Ride App & Car Services Pickup location between noon and 2 a.m., with a free shuttle bus provided.
– At Terminals 5 and 7, pickups have been relocated to the Howard Beach Ride App & Car Services Lot. Passengers should use the free AirTrain JFK from these terminals.
– The taxi stand at Terminal 5 is now located on the ground level of its Yellow Parking Garage.
– Parking adjustments have been made at various garages due to construction; some areas are reserved for individuals with special needs or closed entirely.
The TSA now requires all airline passengers aged 18 years and older to present REAL ID-compliant identification at security checkpoints. Alternative acceptable forms include passports and Global Entry cards. Those without compliant IDs will undergo additional screening.
To manage parking demand at Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and JFK Airport, travelers arriving by private car are urged to pre-book parking spaces online in advance. Those who do not pre-book may face higher rates or be unable to find a spot.
At LaGuardia Airport, Q70 bus LaGuardia Link service remains fare-free year-round as part of efforts announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul in April 2022 (https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-fare-free-q70-bus-service-laguardia-airport).
PATH train users should note overnight maintenance closures affecting certain stations from 11:59 p.m. until 5 a.m., with alternative entrances available during those hours.
Lane closures are scheduled this week on several major crossings:
– George Washington Bridge: Multiple lanes will be closed intermittently between September 2 and September 5 during daytime and overnight hours.
– Lincoln Tunnel: Each tube will close one night this week between September 2–5; remaining tubes will accommodate traffic.
– Bayonne Bridge: Three southbound toll lanes will close one after another overnight on September 2 into September 3.
The Port Authority advises checking online resources for real-time updates about service changes or traffic impacts across its facilities.
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