MTA | 3 Stations Manhattan
Client
New York City Transit
Architect
NYCTA, DCPM Architecture
Completion
2018
Infrastructure Renewal and Accessibility Enhancement
As part of the New York City Transit Authority’s ongoing commitment to improving rider safety, accessibility, and infrastructure reliability, this project delivered critical structural repairs and station upgrades at three historic stations along the 8th Avenue Line: 103rd Street, 145th Street, and 168th Street.
The project
The most extensive scope was centered at 145th Street Station, originally constructed in 1906, where comprehensive modernization efforts brought the station up to current standards while preserving its historic character. Key upgrades included the complete replacement of all platform edges to bring them into full ADA compliance, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. Additional enhancements involved installing new platform toppings, a precisely aligned rubbing board set to the best-fit line for safe train docking, and the integration of non-slip warning strip tack tiles for increased passenger safety.
Work at 103rd Street and 168th Street stations included similar accessibility and safety upgrades, along with structural repairs to reinforce and restore aging infrastructure. This included targeted reinforcement of existing steel columns and beams, extending the service life of these legacy stations. Persistent water infiltration issues were also addressed through specialized chemical injection techniques to seal and mitigate existing leaks, preserving the structural integrity of the facilities.
The development
All work was executed during 53-hour weekend General Orders, requiring meticulous coordination, precise execution, and seamless return-to-service before weekday operations resumed. Limited access to work zones within the active subway environment added further complexity, demanding a high level of technical expertise and operational planning.
The result
This multi-station initiative reflects a balance of historic preservation, code compliance, and 21st-century performance, ensuring that these iconic transit hubs continue to serve New Yorkers reliably and safely for generations to come.
