Project Snapshot
- Client: Metropolitan Transportation Authority / NYCT
- Location: Queens Plaza Station
- Contract: E-34054 One Station Part of 37 Elevators Project
- Scope: Analog-to-IP PIDS/security camera replacement
- Cameras Installed: 50
- Planned Duration: 2 days
- Actual Duration: Half a day
Project Overview
As part of an MTA upgrade contract,the Queens Plaza Station underwent a major elevator replacement and modernization effort aimed at improving accessibility, reliability, and passenger safety.
MKJ was brought in to replace the station’s existing analog PIDS/security camera system with a fully IP-based camera network, supporting elevator operations and station security while minimizing disruption to daily ridership. Working with longtime partners TAP Electric and Forte Construction helped us to exceed goals and expectations on this project.
The Challenge
Complete a high-stakes system cutover in an active station environment—fast, clean, and without customer complaints.
- Aging analog PIDS/security infrastructure tied to elevator operations
- A live subway station with constant passenger flow
- Tight coordination required with New York City Transit Security and the New York City Police Department
- An original outage window planned for two full days
In short: no room for delays, missteps, or last-minute problems.
MKJ’s Approach
MKJ took a pre-planning-first approach—because speed on site only happens when everything is already solved beforehand.
Key elements included:
- Full pre-staging and configuration of IP-based camera equipment
- Network readiness verified in advance
- Clear cutover sequencing to avoid service interruptions
- Detailed coordination with NYCT Security and NYPD prior to installation
- An aggressive execution plan designed specifically to reduce downtime
Nothing was left to chance.
The Results
The results exceeded expectations across the board.
What was planned:
• 2 days of on-site work
What actually happened:
• 50 IP cameras online before lunch
• Half a day total to complete the system upgrade
• Zero unplanned outages
• Minimal passenger impact
The installation was executed by MKJ field leads Savni Sandbhor, Anaan Ramay, Osman Greva, and Joe Baidoo, with overall project management by Rucha Ghalsasi, whose coordination kept every moving piece aligned.
Bigger Picture Impact
This work played a direct role in a major milestone for the overall contract.
- Queens Plaza Station reopened faster than comparable accessibility projects
- Approximately 16 elevators have now been completed under the contract
By compressing the PIDS/security scope without compromising quality or safety, MKJ helped keep the entire project on schedule—and set a new benchmark for delivery.
Why This Matters
Infrastructure projects don’t usually make headlines for efficiency—but this one should.
This case demonstrates what’s possible when:
- Planning is done early
- Teams are aligned before boots hit the ground
- Security, transit operations, and installation crews work as one unit
For MKJ, it reinforced a core belief: the best work looks easy because the hard part happened before anyone arrived on site.
