Originally Posted by izzik
Instead of walking on the sidewalk under the tracks, I would recommend :
1. Exit the AAirtrain, pass through exit turnstiles
2. Continue on same level through double doors - this will lead you to an
overhead walkway which is above the LIRR tracks.
3. At the end of the overhead walkway, there is an elevator which brings you down to the subway level turnstiles. Use your MTA card to enter the subway and go from there.
No need to be exposed to the immediate area around the station.
Hmm, well that is another option. I took it one time and the wait for the elevator was long. I think thing moved and inch a minute. I don't have much baggage so it was faster for me to go outside. If you have a lot of bags, it's probably a better bet. The area around the station is not Beverly Hills, but then it's not South Central either. Its a lower income working class multi-ethnic neighborhood. Stay in the vicinity of the stations and there is nothing to worry about.
Sutphin/Jamaica is better for Midtown and north and Howard Beach is better for Downtown.