An abandoned platform underneath the Waldorf-Astoria
Underneath the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, just a few steps from the busy Metro-North tracks at Grand Central Terminal, lies Track 61, a relic of another era. This track, now abandoned, had long been a mystery. Commuters can catch only glimpses of it, and it’s off-limits to all but the most senior MTA officials.
In 2007, Trainjotting offered up a few tidbits about Track 61, and yesterday, Matt Lauer on the Today Show went underground with a Metro-North spokesman to publicize of the track. The story is fascinating; it was built to accommodate FDR during his presidency when he tried to keep the extent of his disability brought about my polio under wraps. Watch the story, complete with a great look underground and word that maybe the platform isn’t as abandoned as we speak, right here.
Update: Loyal reader Francis Morrone points us to the Abandoned Stations entry on Track 61. It clears up the history and misconceptions surrounding the track’s origins. The track itself pre-dates FDR’s presidency.
Stories like this are why I keep coming back to SAS every day. Thanks for sharing that, Ben.
Same here. I pass by Grand Central every day. It has lots of other secrets as well. I think “Jane’s New York” on NBC and/or “Secrets of New York” on NYCTV in the New York City Area has lots of shows covering topics like these.