MTA awards final contract for Second Avenue Subway's first phase

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has awarded the final contract for the first phase of the Second Avenue Subway in New York City, MTA officials announced yesterday.

The $208.4 million contract was awarded to the 86th Street Constructors Joint Venture, which includes Schiavone Construction Co. L.L.C. and John P. Picone Inc. The contract covers station finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, ancillary buildings and entrances for the 86th Street Station.

The award covers the 10th and final contract for the project's first phase, MTA officials said in a press release.

"This is a great milestone for the MTA and for all New Yorkers," said Michael Horodniceanu, president of MTA Capital Construction.

The $4.45 billion project, which calls for extending the Q Line along Second Avenue, is the largest expansion of the subway system in a generation. The line will feature new stations at 72nd, 86th and 96th streets, and is expected to open in December 2016.