Just over 82% complete, the NYC Second Avenue Subway will bring relief to East Side Manhattanites who find living and working in the city a touch inconvenient. But these surreal photos of the newly installed train tracks taken by photographer Bhushan Mondkar will be a treat to more than just New Yorkers. For those who are simply enamored by the expansion of New York's already expansive subway system, they provide a behind-the-scenes look at the building process, which boasts many successes amidst a sea of challenges.
Dr. Michael Horodniceanu, president of Capital Construction at Metropolitan Transportation Authority, anticipates that the last 18% will be the most challenging, but is confident that the project will open by its projected December 2016 launch.
As a part of the first phase, three new stations at 96th, 72nd and 86th streets will be added, and those who frequent the existing station at 63rd and Lexington will be excited by its planned makeover. After the opening, the Q train will be rerouted along this line.
Between testing new systems and integrating them with existing infrastructure, subway expansion is no easy feat in an already developed metropolitan city, but the successful launch of the NYC Second Avenue Subway should be a model for other cities hoping to do the same.
Expanding Subway Snapshots
These Photos Reveal the NYC Second Avenue Subway Close to Completion
Trend Themes
1. Subway Expansion - This trend highlights the growth and expansion of subway systems in major cities, presenting opportunities for construction companies, transportation companies, and urban planning firms to contribute innovative solutions.
2. Urban Infrastructure - This trend focuses on the development and improvement of urban infrastructure, opening up opportunities for engineering firms, architecture firms, and construction technology companies to introduce disruptive innovations.
3. Transportation Innovation - This trend emphasizes the need for innovative transportation solutions, offering opportunities for technology startups, automakers, and logistics companies to revolutionize how people move and commute in cities.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can leverage this trend by exploring new construction methods and techniques to build efficient and sustainable subway systems.
2. Transportation - The transportation industry can take advantage of this trend by developing advanced transportation systems and technologies to enhance the efficiency and convenience of subway networks.
3. Urban Planning - This trend presents an opportunity for urban planning professionals to incorporate subway expansion into city development plans, creating more sustainable and accessible urban environments.