The place is literally next to 145th Street Metro Station (opposite McDonalds) and it's quick to go to downtown. Miriam is also quick to give response and answers to your questions about NY.
When I was there, in the first night the metro did not go to 145th (stopped in 137th street) and I had to take bus due to some rail works. Furthermore, it would be better if the elevator worked when I was there (the place is on the 5th floor). But these are something beyond the host's control.