Yikes: Major, yearslong disruptions are coming to JFK starting Wednesday
There's a renaissance happening at the three major New York City-area airports.
A brand-new terminal opened earlier this year at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), the dreaded "third-world country" that was LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is now history, and the region's busiest airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), is undergoing perhaps the biggest transformation yet.
As part of the "JFK Vision Plan," the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which manages and oversees the airport, has embarked on a nearly decadelong transformation project that'll make JFK a whole lot better than before.
This includes a brand-new Terminal 1 and Terminal 6, expanded facilities in Terminal 4 and Terminal 8 and the demolition of the existing Terminal 7.
While the redevelopment sounds good on paper (and looks great in renderings), the next few years are not going to be fun for those headed to or from JFK.
That's because major disruptions are coming to how you get to JFK: Many of the existing roadways are getting torn up, which will undoubtedly lead to traffic jams, congestion and possibly even total gridlock.
The Port Authority previewed the changes coming to JFK at a special media event Tuesday, and while the agency is being transparent about what's coming, you're not going to like these updates — especially because the disruption is estimated to last (at least) four to five years.
“We are asking people to take note of the construction challenges to recognize there will be temporary changes and we are going to be doing the best we can to minimize those disruptions," said Rick Cotton, the executive director of the Port Authority. "In the end, it will be worth it," he added.
Traffic changes at terminals 1 and 5
If you plan to drive to JFK, be prepared for what could turn into gridlock.
As part of the construction of the new terminals 1 and 6, the Port Authority will close multiple airport roadways, which will primarily affect those headed to terminals 1 and 5.
Though the ramifications of the roadway changes aren’t yet clear, new traffic patterns at both terminals will certainly cause a headache as you try getting to or from these facilities.
The changes will begin at a yet-undisclosed date in early May, and they'll last for at least four to five years. Of course, these disruptions could even cause backups on other JFK roadways.
The Port Authority recognizes the possibility of total gridlock, and to prevent that, the agency just opened a new traffic management center at its on-site Airport Operations Center.
Multiple traffic engineers are stationed there around the clock, and they’re responsible for monitoring traffic flows and diverting vehicles as necessary to alleviate any bottlenecks.
They have the capability to remotely change traffic lights, and they’re in 24/7 communication with Port Authority police officers, who can physically block and direct traffic as needed.
Related: Watch us race to JFK via train, subway, cab and helicopter
Relocated taxi stands and Uber/Lyft pickups
If you prefer taking a taxi or a ride-hailing service from JFK, you’re going to be in for a big schlep if you land at JetBlue’s Terminal 5.
Beginning Wednesday, the taxi stand at Terminal 5 is being relocated to the ground level of the Yellow Garage, which is attached to Terminal 5 by an enclosed pedestrian bridge.
But the revamped pickup setup for ride-hailing services, which will start in the next 30 to 45 days, will become even more of an inconvenience.
Ubers and Lyfts will only be allowed to pick up Terminal 5 passengers at a new staging area being built on the roof of the Orange Garage, which is adjacent to Terminal 7.
This area will be covered with canopies in the case of inclement weather.
To get there, flyers will need to pick up their luggage, walk to the Terminal 5 AirTrain station, take the train one stop and then make their way to the roof of the Orange Garage — a big headache, especially for those with lots of checked bags or mobility issues.
Note that you’ll still be dropped off at Terminal 5, regardless of whether you’re arriving at the airport in a taxi, Uber, Lyft or private car.
For now, the Port Authority is only changing the pickup procedure for Terminal 5 passengers, but the agency isn’t ruling out the possibility of future disruptions to the drop-off and pickup experience for ride-hailing passengers.
One idea that’s being considered is the opening of a remote lot to handle all ride-hailing service vehicles at JFK (similar to what happened at LaGuardia during the redevelopment). Hopefully, the agency can avoid this measure because that’d surely be a big pain for travelers.
Related: There's a new way to get from midtown Manhattan to JFK
Major AirTrain closure
Going forward, the AirTrain will become the most reliable way to get to or from JFK. The train runs in a continuous loop to all JFK terminals from Howard Beach and Jamaica stations, which are accessible via the New York City subway and Long Island Rail Road.
However, even the AirTrain will have some disruptions. Beginning May 1, the AirTrain station at Terminal 1 will be closed for at least seven months.
Travelers headed to Terminal 1, which is home to many large international airlines, including Air France and Lufthansa, will need to take the AirTrain to either Terminal 4 or Terminal 8, where the Port Authority will set up a busing operation to take travelers to Terminal 1.
Shuttle buses from Terminal 4 to Terminal 1 will run daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., while buses from Terminal 8 to Terminal 1 will be available 24/7.
For now, the only near-term AirTrain disruption will be at Terminal 1, though the Port Authority said that future closures at other terminals are possible as the construction progresses.
Bottom line
There’s a possible traffic nightmare coming to JFK.
With multiple terminal redevelopment projects underway, the Port Authority is adjusting traffic patterns to make room for construction. This will lead to roadway closures, relocated Uber/Lyft and taxi pickup areas, and changes to the AirTrain system.
More than anything, you’ll need to pack your patience and allow extra time when traveling to or from JFK in the coming years. I’d consider taking public transportation to the airport if you can, or even rerouting to fly from nearby LaGuardia or Newark if at all possible.
In the meantime, stay tuned to TPG, JFKAirport.com and @JFKAirport on Twitter for more updates on the disruptions coming to JFK.
Related reading:
- When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
- The best airline credit cards
- What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
- 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
- Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
- The best credit cards to reach elite status
- What are points and miles worth? TPG’s monthly valuations
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.