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JFK Rail Link Remains Heated Topic Several local Queens leaders have given their support for the proposed Jamaica leg of the JFK Airport rail link, including former Congressman Rev. Floyd Flake and Dr. Charles Kidd, president of York College. However, the issue of the Airtrain remains controversial as opponents contend that construction of the link would disrupt, and potentially devalue, homes along the train route.
The 8.4 mile light rail link will connect JFK Airport to the Long Island Railroad Station in Jamaica, as well as providing an extension to the Howard Beach subway and long-term parking.
Those who support the elevated rail link believe it will benefit queens communities, especially Jamaica.
Arthur Benjamin, chair of the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, said the project will, "provide Jamaica Center, including York College, with special new potentials for economic and community development, thereby strengthening the 30 year-old public-private partnership of business, community, and government that has lifted Jamaica from economic trauma and has set Southeast Queens on a promising course towards middle-income viability."
The Greater Jamaica Development Corp., along with the Port Authority, have pushed for the rail link because of increasing competition from Newark Airport, which last year surpassed JFK in...