Grand Central Station
One of New York City's most famous landmarks, Grand Central Terminal is located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue in Manhattan. Opened in 1913, it is the second incarnation to occupy this location.
Grand Central Depot which opened in 1871 featured an enormous glass and steel train shed. The street level tracks leading out of the station dominated the local area with few safe pedestrian crossing areas. After years of locomotive service, the noise and air pollution were chronic, and public concerns about safety were on the rise. By the end of the century the age of the steam locomotive was drawing to a close and there was an increasing demand for electric trains.
In 1902 plans were announced to improve and expand Grand Central. It was necessary to demolish the existing station and create a new double level terminal for electric trains. Construction would last ten years. Excavation was an enormous undertaking as subway access was incorporated into the planning and the grade of the outer rail yard was lowered to an average depth of 30 feet below street level.
In the mid 20th century, railroads fell into a major decline with competition from interstate highway construction and inter-city airline flights. There were plans proposed for replacing Grand Central with hi-rise commercial office buildings. The plans drew huge opposition, and the station was saved. In 1994 a massive restoration restored the station to the grandeur that is evident today.
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