I just watched a Morgan Limes video from 11 months ago that had a Q train running express on that middle track. "Front of Train Ride On an R46 (Q) Via Sea Beach Express to Coney Island From 96th Street" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8AknQoI3wg). I'm not from NYC; did they recently stop running express on this stretch? I'm learning a lot about the subway from you and YouTube.
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I spoke too soon in my previous comment. I went back and read his notes, and this was part of some weekend work diversions in August of 2022. I also checked my maps, and they, of course, don't show the express running that I saw. Still an interesting video.
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Ha! Yeah, they do often use the middle track here for service diversions, as well as for non-revenue moves to/from Coney Island Yard. It's always a treat to catch those unusual moves! I'll be sure to check out that video too!
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He has several front end videos. Another very thorough channel is Welcome to An Experience.
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Well, one of them looks like a freight track - one that hasn't seen much freight (or any activity whatsoever) in quite a while! No third rail on it either...
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Yes, the southbound express/freight track is abandoned between the portal at 4th Avenue and Kings Hwy Station and has been disconnected from the track on either end. Seems only one extra track is sufficient for the TA's needs, and not keeping the second presumably reduces maintenance costs!
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