In 2019, the New York City Department of Transportation initiated the removal of the Bethel Avenue and Tracy Avenue pedestrian bridges along the Staten Island Railway. These bridges provided pedestrian access to the Staten Island Railway via the former Nassau and Atlantic stations. The stations were demolished in 2017 after the new Arthur

Kill Road train station opened in Tottenville, offering the community a new $27.6 million, a handicap-accessible station with a 150-vehicle parking lot. Work included the removal of each bridge’s pedestrian decks, staircases, piers, lighting systems, and utilities; asbestos and lead abatement; and installation of new fencing on existing concrete barriers.

Melissa Johnson Associates was responsible for local community outreach during the demolition of the pedestrian bridges, both of which were located immediately adjacent to residences, on-street parking, and Arthur Kill Road in Tottenville. During demolition, major parking areas were maintained at all times, and short-term access restrictions to local streets and on-street parking were communicated to local stakeholders. The project team implemented measures to reduce noise in the area, and minimized impacts to residents and motorists. MJA’s community liaison coordinated all outreach efforts and responded to questions from the community board, elected officials, and local residents.

The now-defunct Atlantic station opened in about 1910
and was built to serve the Atlantic Terra Cotta factory. The Nassau station opened in the 1920s and was built to serve the workers of the Nassau Smelting & Refining Company.