For public transportation to the Refuge, take the A Rockaway Subway Line to Broad Channel stop - one station past JFK Airport train connection. Walk through Broad Channel community to the Bay Shore Road. Continue in a northwest direction along the highway to the Wildlife Center. It's a considerable walking distance for physically challenged people with no convenient resting places until you reach the Wildlife Center. Be sure to take water and a snack with you as drinking water and nourishment are not conveniently available.
However, it is well worth the effort to go without a car for nature lovers.