Many East Harlem neighbors and business owners said the short-term pain is worth the addition of a subway up Second Avenue, which has been promised for nearly a century. Aqel Sheet Metal on Second Avenue didn't have much space to work with before the MTA started subway construction out its front door. Since construction began, the MTA has had regular monthly meetings with Manhattan Community Board 11 through a “Second Avenue Subway Task Force.” Jose Altamirao (left), the chair of the Second Avenue Subway Task Force, stands with Manhattan Community Board 11 Chair Adem Brija. Felix Rivera, 78, hopes the MTA finished the Second Avenue subway extension into East Harlem before he dies.