The Design and Architecture of New York City's Public Transportation System
A hallmark of New York City’s transportation system is its efficiency, but the aesthetic treasures of some of these engineered spaces—both sung and unsung—are what make the system glorious. Consider the beauty and functionality of mosaics and bas-reliefs in the subway; Grand Central Terminal, both inside and out; and the new transportation hub in lower Manhattan—a real “Calatravaganza.” From iconic structures such as Eero Saarinen’s TWA Building at JFK Airport to hidden details like the depictions of life preservers worked into a balustrade on an East River pier, New York City’s system is among the greatest in the world. And just think of glories past—the elevated stations that resembled Swiss chalets, the original Pennsylvania Station, and more.
You'll Walk Away with
- An appreciation of both the functionality and beauty of NYC’s public transportation system
- Increased familiarity with NYC history
Ideal for
- The curious and creative
- All members of the community—working, retired, and in between
NO open sections available for this course at the moment. Please check back next semester.