181st Street station (IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line)

New York City Subway station in Manhattan the station at West 181st Street & Fort Washington Avenue 181st Street station (IND Eighth Avenue Line) August 2023 August 2023 181 Street 181st street station repaired.jpg Renovated platform view View of the renovated platform West 181st Street & Saint Nicholas AvenueNew York, New York Manhattan Washington Heights 40.849 N 73.934 W inline,title IRT IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line Broadway-Seventh north NYCT Bus: M3 Bx3 Bx11 Bx13 Bx35 Bx36 GWB Bus Station (at 179th Street) 2 side platforms 2 Underground 120 ft m 1906 05 30 mezzanine New York City Subway Broadway-Seventh north 191st Street 168th Street alltimes yes 181st Street Subway Station (IRT) March 30, 2005 New York City Subway System MPS 05000224 New York State Register of Historic Places December 18, 2004 06101.015033Cultural Resource Information System (CRIS) New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation November 7, 2014 https://cris.parks.ny.gov/ July 20, 2023 cp Dominican Historic District 100011048 January 24, 2025 y 330 191st Street 168th Street IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line 181st Street–George Washington Bridge The 181st Street station (signed as 181st Street–George Washington Bridge) is a station on the IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line of the New York City Subway. Located at the intersection of St. Nicholas Avenue and 181st Street in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, it is served by the 1 train at all times. Built by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT), the station opened on May 30, 1906, as part of the first subway, although the line had opened two months earlier and trains were skipping the station. It is one of three stations in the Fort George Mine Tunnel, which carries the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line under Washington Heights, and is 120 ft m below ground level. Due to the station's depth, the tunnel was blasted through the hillside; during the station's construction, a 300-ton boulder had killed 10 miners. The station's platforms were lengthened in 1948. The station was closed from December 2020 to November 2021 for elevator replacement. The 181st Street station contains two side platforms and two tracks. The station was built with tile and mosaic decorations as well as a ceiling vault. The platforms contain exits to 181st Street and St. Nicholas Avenue. 181st Street is one of three New York City Subway stations that can be accessed only by elevators; however, the station's four elevators are not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 3 History Construction and opening Construction Planning for a subway line in New York City dates to 1864,21 but development of what became the city's first subway line did not start until 1894, when the New York State Legislature passed the Rapid Transit Act.Walker James Blaine https://archive.org/details/fiftyyearsrapid00walkgoog Fifty Years of Rapid Transit — 1864 to 1917 1918 Law Printing New York, N.Y. November 6, 2016139–140 The subway plans were drawn up by a team of engineers led by William Barclay Parsons, the Rapid Transit Commission's chief engineer. It called for a subway line from New York City Hall in lower Manhattan to the Upper West Side, where two branches would lead north into the Bronx.October 23, 1979 Interborough Rapid Transit System, Underground Interior http://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/1096.pdf November 19, 2019 New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission September 21, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200921135400/https://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/1096.pdf live3 A plan was formally adopted in 1897,148 and all legal conflicts over the route alignment were resolved near the end of 1899.161 The Rapid Transit Construction Company, organized by John B. McDonald and funded by August Belmont Jr., signed the initial Contract 1 with the Rapid Transit Commission in February 1900,https://archive.org/details/cu31924022794253/page/n253/mode/2up?q=april+28 Report of the Board of Rapid Transit Railroad Commissioners for the City of New York For The Year Ending December 31, 1904 Accompanied By Reports of the Chief Engineer and of the Auditor Board of Rapid Transit Railroad Commissioners 1905 229–236 under which it would construct the subway and maintain a 50-year operating lease from the opening of the line.165 In 1901, the firm of Heins & LaFarge was hired to design the underground stations.4 Belmont incorporated the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT) in April 1902 to operate the subway.182 The 181st Street station was constructed as part of the IRT's West Side Line (now the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line) from 133rd Street to a point 100 ft north of 182nd Street. Work on this section was conducted by L. B. McCabe & Brother, who started building the tunnel segment on May 14, 1900. On that date, a groundbreaking ceremony took place at Broadway and 156th Street, one block south of the 157th Street station site.May 15, 1900 Ground Broken for the Big Tunnel; Ceremonies on Washington Heights Where the Work Begins https://www.nytimes.com/1900/05/15/archives/group-broken-for-the-big-tunnel-ceremonies-on-washington-heights.html 2026-08-07 The New York Times en-US 0362-4331 The 168th Street, 181st Street, and 191st Street stations were built as part of the Washington Heights Mine Tunnel (also known as the Fort George Tunnel), which stretches for over 2 mi.March 30, 2005 181st Street Subway Station (IRT) https://catalog.archives.gov/medialz/electronic-records/rg-079/NPS_NY/05000224.pdf September 11, 2020 National Register of Historic Places, National Park Service July 28, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210728164653/https://s3.amazonaws.com/NARAprodstorage/lz/electronic-records/rg-079/NPS_NY/05000224.pdf live5Scott Charles 1978 Design and Construction of the IRT: Civil Engineering https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/master/pnp/habshaer/ny/ny0300/ny0387/data/ny0387data.pdf live https://web.archive.org/web/20210117001227/https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/master/pnp/habshaer/ny/ny0300/ny0387/data/ny0387data.pdf January 17, 2021 December 20, 2020 Historic American Engineering Record 208–282 (PDF pp. 209–283) 257 The tunnel was dug through the hard rock under Washington Heights, with work proceeding from either end as well as from construction shafts. Construction shafts were excavated at 168th and 181st Streets, and elevators were installed inside these construction shafts after the tunnel was completed.257Interborough Rapid Transit Company https://books.google.com/books?id=MHURuDBc8VUC New York Subway: Its Construction and Equipment Interborough Rapid Transit Company 1904 December 23, 2020 July 28, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210728165919/https://books.google.com/books?id=MHURuDBc8VUC live60 The tunnel was mined in the early morning to minimize disruption. Much of the rock was crushed for concrete, including the concrete floor. The rails and arched roof were laid using travelers that proceeded the length of the tunnel.5 During construction, on October 24, 1903, a 300-ton boulder weakened by an explosive gave way, killing 10 miners (six instantly) and injuring eight more.Dwyer Jim Jim Dwyer (journalist) August 18, 2009 Subway Station Ceilings Were Built to Last, but Not Forever limited https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/19/nyregion/19about.html live July 22, 2020 July 16, 2016 The New York Times https://web.archive.org/web/20200722193106/https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/19/nyregion/19about.htmlRoess R.P. https://books.google.com/books?id=qfZ0VxuLoc0C&pg=PA166 The Wheels That Drove New York: A History of the New York City Transit System Sansone G. Springer Berlin Heidelberg 2012 978-3-642-30484-2 Springer Tracts on Transportation and Traffic July 16, 2016166 The dead miners consisted of nine Italian immigrants (including the foreman) as well as an electrician from Germany.Mannes Elena New York Underground Transcript https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/technology/nyunderground/nyundergroundts.html dead https://web.archive.org/web/20160506075826/https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/technology/nyunderground/nyundergroundts.html May 6, 2016 July 16, 2016 PBS Opening The original New York City Subway line from City Hall to 145th Street on the West Side Branch opened in 1904,186https://books.google.com/books?id=kKUlAQAAIAAJ Report of the Public Service Commission For The First District of the State of New York For The Year Ending December 31, 1909 1910 Public Service Commission Albany en December 21, 2020 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165001/https://books.google.com/books?id=kKUlAQAAIAAJ live189 with the line being extended to 157th Street that year.191 The West Side Branch was extended northward from 157th Street to a temporary terminus at 221st Street, near the Harlem River Ship Canal,One New York Times article labeled the Harlem River Ship Canal station as being at 220th Street. However, others have referred to that station as being on 221st Street.January 14, 1907 Farthest North in Town by the Interborough 18 The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/1907/01/14/archives/farthest-north-in-town-by-the-interborough-take-a-trip-to-the-new.html live April 1, 2021 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165002/https://www.nytimes.com/1907/01/14/archives/farthest-north-in-town-by-the-interborough-take-a-trip-to-the-new.html?searchResultPosition=1 on March 12, 1906, with the station at 181st Street not yet open.limited https://www.nytimes.com/1906/03/13/archives/trains-to-ship-canal-but-they-whiz-by-washington-heights-stations.html Trains To Ship Canal — But They Whiz by Washington Heights Stations March 13, 1906 The New York Times August 16, 2015 16 0362-4331 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521164200/https://www.nytimes.com/1906/03/13/archives/trains-to-ship-canal-but-they-whiz-by-washington-heights-stations.html?searchResultPosition=1 live The 181st Street station opened on May 30, 1906, when express trains began running through to 221st Street.limited https://www.nytimes.com/1906/05/30/archives/oyster-boat-blows-up-captain-and-his-crew-have-a-narrow-escape-in.html Express to 221st Street: Will Run In the Subway To-day–New 181st Street Station Ready. May 30, 1906 The New York Times 0362-4331 September 1, 2016 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165003/https://www.nytimes.com/1906/05/30/archives/oyster-boat-blows-up-captain-and-his-crew-have-a-narrow-escape-in.html?searchResultPosition=2 live On the following day, new feeder streetcar lines operated by the Interborough Railway Company began running from the Bronx, over the Washington Bridge, and along 181st Street, to the station to provide transfers with the subway at the new station.May 31, 1906 From Battery to Kingsbridge. Yonkers Statesman https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402761/yonkers-statesman/ April 9, 2021 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165005/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402761/yonkers-statesman/ live These routes ran along Aqueduct Avenue, Fordham Road, 189th Street, Southern Boulevard, and 180th Street in the Bronx, connecting the West Bronx with the new subway line.May 26, 1906 New Bronx Lines Ready. The Interborough Subway Feeders to Start Next Thursday The New York Times https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402795/the-new-york-times/ April 9, 2021 0362-4331 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165003/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402795/the-new-york-times/ live The opening of the first subway line, and particularly the 181st Street station, in conjunction with the streetcar routes over the Washington Bridge, helped contribute to a development boom in the direct vicinity of the station and the development of Washington Heights.10 Within five years, five- and six-story apartment buildings occupied most of the area around the station.September 19, 1909 The Real Estate Market: Changes Take Place On Washington Heights The New York Sun https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402494/the-sun/ April 9, 2021 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165004/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402494/the-sun/ liveJanuary 22, 1911 Era of Building Activity Opening for Fort George: New Subway Station at 191st Street and Proposed Underground Road to Fairview Avenue Important Factors in Coming Development–One Block Of Apartments Finished X11 The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/1911/01/22/archives/article-17-no-title.html February 6, 2019 0362-4331 December 22, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20211222094832/https://www.nytimes.com/1911/01/22/archives/article-17-no-title.html live The opening of the subway transformed the sparsely populated area into a growing neighborhood with apartment buildings and thriving business district along 181st Street.December 9, 1917 West 181st Street Centre of Thriving Upper Washington Heights Residential and Business Community en-US 45 The New York Times subscription https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1917/12/09/98256660.pdf January 28, 2021 0362-4331 August 7, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210807173614/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1917/12/09/98256660.pdf live After the first subway line was completed in 1908,limited https://www.nytimes.com/1908/08/02/archives/our-first-subway-completed-at-last-opening-of-the-van-cortlandt.html Our First Subway Completed At Last — Opening of the Van Cortlandt Extension Finishes System Begun in 1900 — The Job Cost $60,000,000 — A Twenty-Mile Ride from Brooklyn to 242d Street for a Nickel Is Possible Now August 2, 1908 The New York Times November 6, 2016 10 December 23, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20211223112020/https://www.nytimes.com/1908/08/02/archives/our-first-subway-completed-at-last-opening-of-the-van-cortlandt.html live the station was served by West Side local and express trains. Express trains began at South Ferry in Manhattan or Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, and ended at 242nd Street in the Bronx. Local trains ran from City Hall to 242nd Street during rush hours, continuing south from City Hall to South Ferry at other times.https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=nyp.33433081730503;view=1up;seq=151 Brooklyn Daily Eagle Almanac Brooklyn Daily Eagle 1916 119 December 21, 2020 May 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210511155639/https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=nyp.33433081730503;view=1up;seq=151 live Due to the draftiness of the 181st Street and 168th Street stations, many women's petticoats would fly about. In February 1908, engineers at the New York Public Service Commission (PSC) were almost done devising a solution to the problem.February 8, 1908 Must Keep Skirts Sedate. New York Officials Order Engineers to Stop Drafts. The Salina Evening Journal Salina, Kansas https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402524/the-salina-evening-journal/ April 9, 2021 April 9, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210409120531/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402524/the-salina-evening-journal/ live Service changes and station renovations 1910s to 1930s thumb|Street stair|alt=Stair providing entrance to the station from the street The station was originally built with two elevators on the southern end of the uptown platform.More Lifts for 181st St. Subway Station The New York Times April 23, 1909 subscription https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1909/04/23/101737198.html July 16, 2016 In fiscal year 1909, work was done to increase the carrying load of the elevators.https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uiug.30112111474968&view=1up&seq=192&q1=181ST%20STREET 1908-1909 Annual Report of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company for the Year Ended June 30, 1909 Interborough Rapid Transit Company 1909 9 December 22, 2020 April 22, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220422120156/https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uiug.30112111474968&view=1up&seq=192&q1=181ST%20STREET live On June 25, 1909, the New York City Board of Estimate approved an appropriation of $160,000 (US 160000 1909 eq) for the installation of four additional elevators on the northern end of the uptown platform.http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252010%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Evening%2520Post%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Evening%2520Post%25201909%2520Grayscale%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Evening%2520Post%25201909%2520Grayscale%2520-%25202378.pdf $160,000 For Subway Elevators. June 26, 1909 The Evening Post February 12, 2019 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165009/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2010/New%20York%20NY%20Evening%20Post/New%20York%20NY%20Evening%20Post%201909%20Grayscale/New%20York%20NY%20Evening%20Post%201909%20Grayscale%20-%202378.pdf live These elevators measured 8.75 by 11.5 ft each and could carry up to 8000 lb 1.1907 The Elevator and Escalator Equipment of the New York Subway https://hdl.handle.net/2027/iau.31858033398698?urlappend=;seq=83 The Engineering Record, Building Record and the Sanitary Engineer en 56 69–70 2027/iau.31858033398698?urlappend=%3Bseq=83 December 23, 2020 HathiTrust May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165012/https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=iau.31858033398698;seq=83;a=zoom:1 live In June 1910, work on the additional elevators was about 50 percent complete and was on track to be completed by March 1, 1911, although some of the elevators were to be placed in service before then.https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uiug.30112111474968&view=1up&seq=192&q1=181ST%20STREET 1909-1910 Annual Report of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company for the Year Ended June 30, 1910 Interborough Rapid Transit Company 1910 18 December 22, 2020 April 22, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220422120156/https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uiug.30112111474968&view=1up&seq=192&q1=181ST%20STREET live Work to install the elevators was nearly complete in 1911, and the final finishes were installed by January and February 1912.https://books.google.com/books?id=QthLAQAAMAAJ&q=%22southeast+corner%22+%22104th+street%22+%22entrance%22&pg=PA163 Report of the Public Service Commission for the First District of the State of New York 1913 New York State Public Service Commission 163 en April 10, 2021 May 4, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220504023725/https://books.google.com/books?id=QthLAQAAMAAJ&q=%22southeast+corner%22+%22104th+street%22+%22entrance%22&pg=PA163 live On February 3, 1913, the PSC was informed that the IRT had let a contract to construct an additional elevator at the station, which would be completed in April. The elevator would supplement the four elevators already in service at the station and would make use of the space provided in the elevator shaft for two additional elevators. The PSC had ordered that the IRT install two additional elevators in the station a few months prior.New Lift At 181st Street: First of Two More Elevators Being Put in Subway Station https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403235/new-york-tribune/ April 9, 2021 New-York Tribune February 4, 1913 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165005/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403235/new-york-tribune/ live On May 19, 1915, residents of Washington Heights requested that the PSC install additional elevators at the 181st Street and 168th Street stations.May 20, 1915 Brief News Notes The Bridgeport Times and Evening Farmer https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403441/the-bridgeport-times-and-evening-farmer/ April 9, 2021 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165005/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403441/the-bridgeport-times-and-evening-farmer/ live To address overcrowding, in 1909, the PSC proposed lengthening the platforms at stations along the original IRT subway.Hood Clifton 1978 The Impact of the IRT in New York City https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/master/pnp/habshaer/ny/ny0300/ny0387/data/ny0387data.pdf December 20, 2020 Historic American Engineering Record 146–207 (PDF pp. 147–208) January 17, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210117001227/https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/master/pnp/habshaer/ny/ny0300/ny0387/data/ny0387data.pdf live168 As part of a modification to the IRT's construction contracts made on January 18, 1910, the company was to lengthen station platforms to accommodate ten-car express and six-car local trains. In addition to $1.5 million (equivalent to $c US 1.5 1910 1 million in US) spent on platform lengthening, $500,000 (equivalent to $c US 0.5 1910 1 million in US) was spent on building additional entrances and exits. It was anticipated that these improvements would increase capacity by 25 percent.https://books.google.com/books?id=0fBLAQAAMAAJ&q=+zoological+station&pg=PA596 Report of the Public Service Commission for the First District of the State of New York For The Year Ending December 31, 1910 1911 Public Service Commission en January 7, 2021 January 20, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210120015525/https://books.google.com/books?id=0fBLAQAAMAAJ&q=%2Bzoological%2Bstation&pg=PA596 live15 The northbound platform at the 181st Street station was extended 176 ft to the north; timbering was used to support the arched ceiling during the extension work, thereby allowing it to retain structural integrity.113–114 The southbound platform was not lengthened.106 Six-car local trains began operating in October 1910,168 and ten-car express trains began running on the West Side Line on January 24, 1911.168limited https://www.nytimes.com/1911/01/23/archives/tencar-trains-in-subway-today-new-service-begins-on-lenox-av-line.html Ten-car Trains in Subway to-day; New Service Begins on Lenox Av. Line and Will Be Extended to Broadway To-morrow. January 23, 1911 The New York Times April 5, 2018 en-US 0362-4331 April 5, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180405224750/https://www.nytimes.com/1911/01/23/archives/tencar-trains-in-subway-today-new-service-begins-on-lenox-av-line.html live Subsequently, the station could accommodate six-car local trains, but ten-car trains could not open some of their doors. In 1918, the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line opened south of Times Square–42nd Street, and the original line was divided into an H-shaped system. The original West Side Line thus became part of the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line. Local trains were sent to South Ferry, while express trains used the new Clark Street Tunnel to Brooklyn.August 2, 1918 Open New Subway Lines to Traffic; Called a Triumph 1 The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/1918/08/02/archives/open-new-subway-lines-to-traffic-called-a-triumph-great-h-system.html October 4, 2011 0362-4331 January 6, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210106233417/https://www.nytimes.com/1918/08/02/archives/open-new-subway-lines-to-traffic-called-a-triumph-great-h-system.html?searchResultPosition=1 live On March 10, 1925, members of a committee of the Cheskchamay Democratic Club of the 23rd Assembly District requested that the New York City Board of Transportation (NYCBOT) construct additional elevators at 180th Street and 182nd Street on the west side of St. Nicholas Avenue to reduce congestion at the station's six elevators. Transit Commissioner John O'Ryan said he would look into the issue and said that having the four north elevators run to the northbound platform instead of running only to the mezzanine level as a short-term measure could help address some of the congestion.March 11, 1925 Contract Urged For Subway Platforms: Delaney Board Asks Board of Estimate to Make Awards for Lengthening. The Brooklyn Standard Union https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403272/the-standard-union/ April 9, 2021 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165005/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75403272/the-standard-union/ live 1940s to 1990s thumb|A view of the platform extensions|alt=A column with the number "181" and a low ceiling within the platform extensions The city government took over the IRT's operations on June 12, 1940.1940-06-13 City Transit Unity Is Now a Reality; Title to I.R.T. Lines Passes to Municipality, Ending 19-Year Campaign en-US The New York Times subscription https://www.nytimes.com/1940/06/13/archives/city-transit-unity-is-now-a-reality-title-to-irt-lines-passes-to.html 2022-05-14 0362-4331 January 7, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220107193115/https://www.nytimes.com/1940/06/13/archives/city-transit-unity-is-now-a-reality-title-to-irt-lines-passes-to.html live June 13, 1940 Transit Unification Completed As City Takes Over I. R. T. Lines: Systems Come Under Single Control After Efforts Begun in 1921; Mayor Is Jubilant at City Hall Ceremony Recalling 1904 Celebration 25 New York Herald Tribune 1248134780 Platforms at IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line stations between 103rd Street IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line and 238th Street IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line, including those at 181st Street, were lengthened to 514 ft between 1946 and 1948, allowing full ten-car express trains to stop at these stations. A contract for the platform extensions at 181st Street and eight other stations on the line was awarded to Spencer, White & Prentis Inc. in October 1946,Crowell Paul October 11, 1946 Improvement Costs Voted for Subway; Board of Estimate Appropriates $31,291,000 for New Cars and Station Lengthening en-US 24 The New York Times subscription https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1946/10/11/94061958.pdf July 28, 2021 0362-4331 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165007/http://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1946/10/11/94061958.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false live with an estimated cost of $3.891 million (US 3891000 1946 eq).11 Oct 1946 City Approves $35,153,000 Subway Outlay: Board of Estimate Awards Contract for 400 Cars and 10 Station Projects 40 New York Herald Tribune 1941-0646 1287183692 The platform extensions at these stations were opened in stages. On April 6, 1948, the platform extension at 181st Street opened.Report for the three and one-half years ending June 30, 1949. 1949 New York City Board of Transportation 2027/mdp.39015023094926July 10, 1948 More Long Platforms – Five Subway Stations on IRT to Accommodate 10-Car Trains 8 The New York Times subscription https://www.nytimes.com/1948/07/10/archives/more-long-platforms-five-subway-stations-on-irt-to-accommodate.html March 27, 2016 0362-4331 January 8, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210108210737/https://www.nytimes.com/1948/07/10/archives/more-long-platforms-five-subway-stations-on-irt-to-accommodate.html?searchResultPosition=1 live Simultaneously, the IRT routes were given numbered designations with the introduction of "R-type" rolling stock, which contained rollsigns with numbered designations for each service.Brown Nicole How did the MTA subway lines get their letter or number? NYCurious amNewYork May 17, 2019 https://www.amny.com/transit/nyc-subway-name-1-31116195/ January 27, 2021 March 2, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210302020704/https://www.amny.com/transit/nyc-subway-name-1-31116195/ live The route to 242nd Street became known as the 1.Friedlander Alex Lonto Arthur Raudenbush Henry April 1960 A Summary of Services on the IRT Division, NYCTA https://erausa.org/pdf/bulletin/1960/1960-01-bulletin.pdf New York Division Bulletin Electric Railroaders' Association 3 1 2 January 27, 2021 September 14, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200914232631/https://erausa.org/pdf/bulletin/1960/1960-01-bulletin.pdf dead In 1959, all 1 trains became local.February 7, 1959 Wagner Praises Modernized IRT — Mayor and Transit Authority Are Hailed as West Side Changes Take Effect 21 The New York Times subscription https://www.nytimes.com/1959/02/07/archives/wagner-praises-modernized-irt-mayor-and-transit-authority-are.html November 6, 2016 January 1, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180101082503/http://www.nytimes.com/1959/02/07/archives/wagner-praises-modernized-irt-mayor-and-transit-authority-are.html?_r=0 live On December 28, 1950, the NYCBOT issued a report concerning the construction of bomb shelters in the subway system. Five deep stations in Washington Heights, including the 181st Street station, were considered to be ideal for being used as bomb-proof shelters. The program was expected to cost $104 million (equivalent to $c US 0.104 1950 3 billion in US). These shelters were expected to provide limited protection against conventional bombs while protecting against shock waves and air blast, as well as from the heat and radiation from an atomic bomb. To become suitable as shelters, the stations would require water-supply facilities, first-aid rooms, and additional bathrooms.Ronan Thomas P. December 29, 1950 Subway Shelters to Cost $104,000,000 Proposed for City en-US 1 The New York Times subscription https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1950/12/29/82088911.html August 3, 2017 0362-4331 May 2, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210502021408/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1950/12/29/82088911.html liveLister Walter Jr. 29 Dec 1950 Subway Bomb Shelters Outlined, City Seeks U.S. Aid on Financing: Bingham Plans Sleeping Quarters for 101,500, Standing Room for a Million More 1 New York Herald Tribune 1941-0646 1327452864 However, the program, which required federal funding, was never completed.https://www.newspapers.com/clip/33803059/daily_news/ Stein's Plan For Subway Cash. Would Utilize Extensions For Shelters, Let U.S. Pay O'Flaherty Mary January 5, 1957 New York Daily News July 12, 2019 July 12, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190712200507/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/33803059/daily_news/ live On July 28, 1959, the New York City Transit Authority (NYCTA) released an invitation to contractors to bid on a project to remove an entrance kiosk at street level and replace it with an underpass under 181st Street to the street's northern building line. Work on the project was to be completed within eight months of the letting of the contract.August 11, 1959 Invitation to Contractors (Contract C-133) New York Daily News https://www.newspapers.com/clip/75402215/daily-news/ April 9, 2021 The old entrance kiosk was demolished with a ceremony in April 1960. City officials claimed it was the highest subway kiosk in Manhattan, at 188 ft above sea level.Johnston Richard J. h 1960-04-08 City Escorts a Subway Kiosk Into Limbo; Uptown Ceremony Full of Pomp and Press Agentry en-US The New York Times subscription https://www.nytimes.com/1960/04/08/archives/city-escorts-a-subway-kiosk-into-limbo-uptown-ceremony-full-of-pomp.html 2022-06-14 0362-4331 Additionally, in Fiscal Year 1959, two elevators in the station were replaced with automatic ones that could travel at higher speeds.https://s3.amazonaws.com/nycsubway.org/images/pdf/nyct_annual_report_1959.pdf Annual Report For The Year Ending June 30, 1959 New York City Transit Authority 1959 9 December 22, 2020 May 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210511153724/https://s3.amazonaws.com/nycsubway.org/images/pdf/nyct_annual_report_1959.pdf live In Fiscal Year 1961, the installation of fluorescent lighting at the station was completed.New York City Transit Authority Annual Report For The Year Ended July 1, 1960 to June 30, 1961 New York City Transit Authority 1961 12 In 1963, one of the elevators at the station was replaced, while work replacing two more was underway.New York City Transit Authority Annual Report For The Year Ended July 1, 1962 to June 30, 1963 New York City Transit Authority 1963 15 In June 1964, it was expected that the replacement of another elevator would be completed in September.https://s3.amazonaws.com/nycsubway.org/images/pdf/nyct_annual_report_1964.pdf New York City Transit Authority Annual 1963-1964 New York City Transit Authority 1964 5 April 9, 2021 August 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210811011611/https://s3.amazonaws.com/nycsubway.org/images/pdf/nyct_annual_report_1964.pdf live thumb|The northern end of the station in 1978|alt=The northern end of the station in 1978, showing an archway and a shorter ceiling in the background, as well as a tall ceiling in the foreground The mezzanine to the southern elevators was closed in 1981.8 The station was closed for the installation of new elevators in the late 1990s and reopened on November 22, 1999, upon the completion of the installation.According to Patch and the MTA, in 2020 the elevators were more than eighty years old. However, directly contradicts a 1999 bulletin in the Daily News that announced the installation of new elevators. The entrance at the southeast corner of 181st Street and St. Nicholas Avenue was to remain closed until early 2000.November 19, 1999 1 9 The 181st Street station will reopen on Monday, November 22. Elevator installation is complete. New York Daily News https://www.newspapers.com/clip/22799942/daily_news/ March 8, 2019 May 21, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220521165204/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/22799942/daily-news/ live In April 1988,Brozan Nadine June 4, 1989 'Skip-Stop' Subway Plan Annoys No. 1 Riders The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/04/nyregion/skip-stop-subway-plan-annoys-no-1-riders.html June 15, 2016 0362-4331 August 10, 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160810125540/http://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/04/nyregion/skip-stop-subway-plan-annoys-no-1-riders.html live the NYCTA unveiled plans to speed up service on the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line through the implementation of a skip-stop service: the 9 train.Moore Keith June 10, 1988 TA's skip-stop plan hit New York Daily News https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25210677/daily_news/ November 8, 2018 November 8, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181108224523/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25210677/daily_news/ live When skip-stop service started in 1989, it was only implemented north of 137th Street–City College on weekdays, and 181st Street was served by both the 1 and the 9.August 20, 1989 #1 Riders: Your Service is Changing New York Daily News https://www.newspapers.com/clip/22823286/daily_news/ November 8, 2018 November 8, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181108224708/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/22823286/daily_news/ liveAugust 1989 Announcing 1 and 9 Skip-Stop Service on the Broadway-Seventh Avenue Line http://subwaynut.com/brochures/1and9skipstop.pdf August 1, 2009 New York City Transit Authority June 26, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200626000015/http://subwaynut.com/brochures/1and9skipstop.pdf deadLorch Donatella August 22, 1989 New Service For Subways On West Side The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/1989/08/22/nyregion/new-service-for-subways-on-west-side.html June 15, 2016 0362-4331 August 10, 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160810113522/http://www.nytimes.com/1989/08/22/nyregion/new-service-for-subways-on-west-side.html live Skip-stop service ended on May 27, 2005, as a result of a decrease in the number of riders who benefited.Chan Sewell Sewell Chan May 25, 2005 On Its Last Wheels, No. 9 Line Is Vanishing on Signs The New York Times limited https://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/25/nyregion/25train.html August 29, 2016 0362-4331 March 17, 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150317100921/http://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/25/nyregion/25train.html liveMay 7, 2005 Noteworthy – 9 discontinued http://www.mta.info/nyct/service/9_discont.htm dead https://web.archive.org/web/20050507104933/http://www.mta.info/nyct/service/9_discont.htm May 7, 2005 September 18, 2016 Metropolitan Transportation Authority mta.info 21st century Several of the elevators in the station are staffed by elevator attendants, who are also employed at four other deep-level stations in Washington Heights. The elevator attendants are intended to reassure passengers, as the elevators are the only entrance to the platforms, and passengers often wait for the elevators with an attendant.Grynbaum Michael M. April 28, 2011 The Subway's Elevator Operators, a Reassuring Amenity of Another Era en-US The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/29/nyregion/subway-elevator-operators-dwindle-in-new-york.html live limited August 3, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20110504015543/https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/29/nyregion/subway-elevator-operators-dwindle-in-new-york.html May 4, 2011 0362-4331 The attendants at the five stations are primarily maintenance and cleaning workers who suffered injuries that made it hard for them to continue doing their original jobs.Brachfeld Ben Espaillat, TWU sue MTA over plan to stop staffing uptown subway elevators amNewYork July 13, 2023 https://www.amny.com/transit/espaillat-twu-sue-mta-uptown-subway-elevators/ July 14, 2023 In July 2003, to reduce costs, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced that as part of its 2004 budget it would eliminate 22 elevator operator positions at the 181st Street station and four others in Washington Heights, leaving one full-time operator per station.Waller Nikki November 23, 2003 Why They Take the A Train (and the 1/9) – Neighborhood Report: Washington Heights en-US The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2003/11/23/nyregion/neighborhood-report-washington-heights-citypeople-why-they-take-train-1-9.html live limited August 3, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20150528000737/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/11/23/nyregion/neighborhood-report-washington-heights-citypeople-why-they-take-train-1-9.html May 28, 2015 0362-4331 The agency had intended to remove all the attendants at these stops, but kept one in each station after many riders protested.Piazza Jo December 7, 2003 M.T.A. Urged Not to Cut Elevator Jobs At 5 Stations en-US The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/07/nyregion/mta-urged-not-to-cut-elevator-jobs-at-5-stations.html live limited August 3, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20190417211300/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/07/nyregion/mta-urged-not-to-cut-elevator-jobs-at-5-stations.html April 17, 2019 0362-4331Sanchez Ray 8 Dec 2003 Deep Fears In Heights A02 Newsday 2574-5298 279797824 In addition, the MTA began operating all elevators at all times; prior to the change, each elevator only operated if it was staffed by an elevator operator.Luo Michael 2003-12-16 Likely M.T.A Budget Cuts 22 Subway Elevator Operators' Jobs en-US The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/16/nyregion/likely-mta-budget-cuts-22-subway-elevator-operators-jobs.html 2023-07-13 0362-4331 The change took effect on January 20, 2004,Sangha Soni 21 Jan 2004 Riders fear elevator cutbacks Operators not standing by 3 New York Daily News 2692-1251 305858845 and was expected to save $1.15 million (US 1150000 2003 eq) a year. In November 2007, the MTA proposed savings cuts to help reduce the agency's deficit. As part of the plan, all elevator operators at 181st Street, along with those in four other stations in Washington Heights, would have been cut.Neuman William November 30, 2007 M.T.A. Savings Proposal May Mean Service Cuts en-US The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/30/nyregion/30holiday.html live limited August 3, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20081211154932/https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/30/nyregion/30holiday.html December 11, 2008 0362-4331Gould Joe Nichols Adam 1 Dec 2007 Subway Elevator Cuts a Downer, Say Riders 10 New York Daily News 2692-1251 306138699 MTA employees had joined riders in worrying about an increase in crime as a result of the cuts after an elevator operator at 181st Street on the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line helped save a stabbed passenger.Sangha Soni January 21, 2004 Riders fear elevator cutbacks. Operators not standing by. 87 New York Daily News https://www.newspapers.com/clip/28294365/daily_news/ live February 11, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190212012813/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/28294365/daily_news/ February 12, 2019 The move was intended to save $1.7 million a year. However, on December 7, 2007, the MTA announced that it would not remove the remaining elevator operators at these stations, due to pushback from elected officials and residents from the area.December 8, 2007 Changing Course, M.T.A. Will Keep Elevator Operators On en-US The New York Times https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9E0CE3DE1531F93BA35751C1A9619C8B63 live August 3, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20180616053810/https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-9E0CE3DE1531F93BA35751C1A9619C8B63.html June 16, 2018 0362-4331 In October 2018, the MTA once again proposed removing the elevator operators at the five stations, but this was reversed after dissent from the Transport Workers' Union.Krisel Brendan October 31, 2018 Uptown Subway Stations Won't Lose Elevator Operators, Union Says Washington Heights-Inwood, NY Patch https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/uptown-subway-stations-wont-lose-elevator-operators-union-says live November 1, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181101095558/https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/uptown-subway-stations-wont-lose-elevator-operators-union-says November 1, 2018 The MTA again suggested reassigning elevator operators to station-cleaner positions in June 2023,Mocker Greg June 16, 2023 Transit union and MTA debate future of elevator operators at Uptown subway stations https://pix11.com/news/local-news/manhattan/transit-union-and-mta-debate-future-of-elevator-operators-at-uptown-subway-stations/ July 13, 2023 PIX11Simko-Bednarski Evan June 15, 2023 MTA reassigning elevator operators deepest NYC subway stations https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/ny-subway-elevator-operator-reassign-20230615-dlzuv5usqbhelht2eskf2d76iq-story.html July 13, 2023 New York Daily News prompting local politicians to sue to prevent the operators' reassignments.Saltonstall Gus July 13, 2023 MTA Elevator Job Cuts Endanger Wash Heights Straphangers: Pol's Suit https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/mta-elevator-job-cuts-endanger-wash-heights-straphangers-pols July 13, 2023 Washington Heights-Inwood, NY Patch thumb|Station view before the 2009 ceiling collapse. Note the scaffolding on the bridge from the 2007 ceiling collapse|alt=View of the station before the 2009 ceiling collapse, with scaffolding on an overpass between the platforms The station was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. There was a partial ceiling collapse at the station in 2007. After that collapse, protective scaffolding was erected, and officials devised a master plan for ceiling repairs. However, funds for the ceiling repairs were not approved by the New York State Legislature until August 14, 2009. Two days later, on August 16 at around 10:30 pm, a 25-foot section of the bricks collapsed onto both tracks and platforms. Nobody was injured in the incident. This caused suspension of 1 service between 168th Street and Dyckman Street stations in both directions for eight days with free shuttle buses providing replacement.August 18, 2009 Subway station repairs to take days WABC-TV news https://abc7ny.com/archive/6969234/ live August 18, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20110604043702/http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=resources%2Ftraffic&id=6969234 June 4, 2011Grynbaum Michael M. August 24, 2009 Service on No. 1 Subway Line Is Largely Restored The New York Times http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/24/service-on-no-1-subway-line-is-largely-restored/ August 24, 2009 February 26, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120226004141/http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/24/service-on-no-1-subway-line-is-largely-restored/ live End-to-end service on the 1 was restored on August 24, and the 181st Street station reopened one week later.August 30, 2009 No. 1 Line Service Restored to 181st Street Metropolitan Transportation Authority http://www.mta.info/mta/news/releases/?en=090830-NYCT130 live August 31, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091222084723/http://mta.info/mta/news/releases/?en=090830-NYCT130 December 22, 2009Mancini John September 1, 2010 Subway Misery Has Express Stop At 181st Street NY1 http://www.ny1.com/content/124760/subway-misery-has-express-stop-at-181st-street dead September 1, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20120226004146/http://www.ny1.com/content/124760/subway-misery-has-express-stop-at-181st-street February 26, 2012 An internal MTA audit found that the ceiling had been allowed to decay for a decade prior to the collapse.Hasselle Della June 29, 2010 MTA Negligence Led to Subway Station Ceiling Collapse, Report Says https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20100629/manhattan/mta-negligence-led-subway-station-ceiling-collapse-report-says January 7, 2021 DNAinfo New York January 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210111094653/https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20100629/manhattan/mta-negligence-led-subway-station-ceiling-collapse-report-says/ dead A $30 million (US 30000000 2011 eq) repair of the 168th and 181st Street stations was to start in early 2012,Redwine Tina October 11, 2011 Washington Heights Straphangers Annoyed At Long-Delayed Subway Station Repairs NY1 http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/transit/148777/washington-heights-straphangers-annoyed-at-long-delayed-subway-station-repairs dead October 12, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120226004151/http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/transit/148777/washington-heights-straphangers-annoyed-at-long-delayed-subway-station-repairs February 26, 2012October 13, 2011 MTA to Revamp 168th Street 1 Train Platform in 2012 https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20111013/washington-heights-inwood/mta-revamp-168th-street-1-train-platform-2012 January 7, 2021 DNAinfo New York January 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210111123149/https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20111013/washington-heights-inwood/mta-revamp-168th-street-1-train-platform-2012/ dead but was delayed by several months due to scheduling conflicts.Zanoni Carla May 7, 2012 MTA Delays Overhaul of 168th and 181st Street 1 Train Stations Until Fall https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20120507/washington-heights/mta-delays-overhaul-of-168th-181st-street-1-train-stations-until-fall January 7, 2021 DNAinfo New York January 12, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210112083358/https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20120507/washington-heights/mta-delays-overhaul-of-168th-181st-street-1-train-stations-until-fall/ dead The renovation, which started in late 2012, was scheduled to take two and a half years.Chiwaya Nigel March 6, 2013 Repairs to 168th and 181st Street 1 Stations to Begin in Spring, MTA Says https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20130306/washington-heights/repairs-168th-181st-street-1-stations-begin-spring-mta-says January 7, 2021 DNAinfo New York January 12, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210112031222/https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20130306/washington-heights/repairs-168th-181st-street-1-stations-begin-spring-mta-says/ dead The project received the 2018 Design Award of Excellence from the Society of American Registered Architects' New York chapter.2018 Design Awards Winners https://www.sarany.org/2018-design-awards-winners March 29, 2021 SARA NY en-US March 30, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220330071843/https://www.sarany.org/2018-design-awards-winners live This station was closed from December 5, 2020, to November 30, 2021, for elevator repair; this was accelerated from an original date range of March 2021 to February 2022.Saltonstall Gus 2021-12-01 Wash Heights 181st Street 1 Station Reopens With New Elevators https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/wash-heights-181st-street-1-station-reopens-new-elevators 2021-12-01 Washington Heights-Inwood, NY Patch en December 1, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20211201190144/https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/wash-heights-181st-street-1-station-reopens-new-elevators livehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jb18Blr3dBA#t=5076 https://web.archive.org/web/20210128060237/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jb18Blr3dBA 2021-01-28 dead Traffic & Transportation November Committee Meeting video YouTube November 2, 2020 November 2, 2020 1:24:36 to 1:25:05Abramov Nora Mocker Greg December 18, 2018 5 subway stations will get replacement elevators https://pix11.com/2018/12/18/5-subway-stations-will-get-replacement-elevators/ live https://web.archive.org/web/20190529164827/https://pix11.com/2018/12/18/5-subway-stations-will-get-replacement-elevators/ May 29, 2019 December 19, 2018 WPIX 11 New YorkDecember 18, 2018 Five Subway Stations in Upper Manhattan to Receive New Elevators http://www.mta.info/press-release/nyc-transit/updated-five-subway-stations-upper-manhattan-receive-new-elevators https://web.archive.org/web/20191219182344/http://www.mta.info/press-release/nyc-transit/five-subway-stations-upper-manhattan-receive-new-elevators December 19, 2019 mta.info December 18, 2018 Metropolitan Transportation Authority As part of the reconstruction, the elevators were extended to directly serve the northbound platform.December 3, 2020 Washington Heights 181st 1 Station Set To Close: What To Know https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/washington-heights-181st-1-station-set-close-what-know March 29, 2021 Washington Heights-Inwood, NY Patch en December 11, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201211194704/https://patch.com/new-york/washington-heights-inwood/washington-heights-181st-1-station-set-close-what-know live During construction, the frequency of M3 bus service between 191st Street and 168th Street was increased. According to a study conducted by New York University researchers and published in 2024, the 181st Street station had some of the highest particulate matter pollution levels of any subway station in New York City.Barron James November 26, 2024 The Air in Subway Stations Is Bad for You, Study Finds https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/26/nyregion/subway-stations-pollution.html November 27, 2024 The New York TimesKhalifeh Ramsey Lane Charles August 7, 2024 Toxic NYC subway air puts Black, Hispanic riders at higher health risk, NYU study finds https://gothamist.com/news/toxic-subway-air-is-worse-for-black-and-hispanic-commuters-nyu-researchers-say November 27, 2024 Gothamist left Station layout GroundStreet levelExit/entranceMezzanineFare control, station agent, elevator bankBridgeElevator bank, crossover to southbound platformPlatform levelElevator bankSide platformNorthbound← newyork 1 toward NYCS Van Cortlandt Park–242nd Street ()Southbound→ newyork 1 toward NYCS South Ferry Broadway-Seventh () →Side platform The 181st Street station, which has two tracks and two side platforms,trackref trackbook33 is served by the 1 train at all times.timetable 1 The station is between 191st Street to the north and 168th Street to the south.map The station is 120 ft m below the surface.6 It is one of three in the deep-level Fort George Mine Tunnel, along with the 168th Street station to the south and the 191st Street station to the north; the tunnel allows the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line to travel under the high terrain of Washington Heights.165 The 181st Street station is one of three stations in the New York City Subway system that can be accessed solely by elevators. The other two, also located on the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line, are 168th Street, as well as Clark Street on the Broadway-Seventh Brooklyn in Brooklyn. However, this station is not ADA-accessible. Near the northern end of the station, there are four elevators adjacent to the northbound platform, which lead from the fare control level to one level above the platforms and the northbound platform itself. On the second level, a footbridge connects the side platforms.6 There is a second footbridge near the center of the station. It leads to a shaft next to the northbound platform, which formerly contained two elevators leading to the fare control area. The footbridge and southern elevator bank were closed in 1981; the shaft is used for ventilation and contains a staircase.6 There was also a third footbridge in the station.https://forgotten-ny.com/2010/04/181st-street/ 181st Street Kevin Walsh April 7, 2010 March 29, 2021 Forgotten NY April 23, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210423095425/https://forgotten-ny.com/2010/04/181st-street/ live Design thumb|Some of the name plaques contain a tablet with the words "181st Street", beneath which is a secondary tablet with the words "George Washington Bridge".|alt=Name plaque containing a tablet with the words "181st Street", beneath which is a secondary tablet with the words "George Washington Bridge" Much of the station is contained within a vault that measures 50 ft wide.60 The lowest 6 ft of the vault walls are wainscoted with rust-colored brick. Atop the brick wainscoting are a belt course made of marble and a multicolored mosaic frieze measuring about 16 in thick. The tops of the walls contain tan brick. Tile name tablets are placed above the frieze at regular intervals, with white letters on a dark background surrounded by floral designs. Some of these plaques consist of a single mosaic tablet with the words "181st StreetGeorge Washington Bridge" on two lines of text, in reference to the nearby George Washington Bridge. Others contain a primary plaque with the words "181st Street", a secondary plaque with the words "George Washington Bridge" beneath it, and a mosaic flower atop the primary plaque.6–7 thumb|The station ceiling|alt=Detail of the station's ceiling with a circular light on the ceiling. The platform extension and its low ceiling are in the distance, The top of the vault ceiling is approximately three stories above the platform level. The center of the vault ceiling has six multicolored terracotta medallions at regular intervals; these formerly held lighting fixtures. The medallions contain foliate rings surrounded by egg-and-dart moldings, followed by guilloche moldings. Similar, smaller rosettes are on the side walls of the vault. The modern lighting fixtures are fluorescent tubes on the vault walls.6–7 The station's platform extensions have ceilings that are 10 to 12 ft above the platform level. At the portals between the original vault and the much lower ceilings of the platform extensions, there is a wide arch over the tracks flanked by narrow arches over each platform. These transitions are clad with tan brick. The arch over the tracks has a volute with a laurel wreath.6 The walls of the platform extensions have white ceramic tiles with mosaic friezes as well as plaques with the words "181st StreetGeorge Washington Bridge". The walls are divided every 15 ft by multicolored tile pilasters that are 16 in wide. Columns near the platform edge, clad with white tile, support the jack-arched concrete station roof.7 The northern elevator mezzanine is the only one that is open to the public, as the southern mezzanine was shuttered in 1981 when that elevator bank closed. The walls of the mezzanine and connecting passageways are clad with white ceramic tiles, while the tops of the walls contain multicolored friezes similar to at platform level. The mezzanine and passageway ceilings are made of concrete. The fare control area contains two retail spaces and is clad with ceramic and glazed tile.8 Exits There are two exits to this station, one at either eastern corner of St. Nicholas Avenue and 181st Street. The northeast-corner entrance is inside a building and the southeast-corner entrance is on the street.8 The station serves Yeshiva University and the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal.https://new.mta.info/document/2416 181st Street Neighborhood Map April 2018 mta.info Metropolitan Transportation Authority April 1, 2021 December 22, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20211222143241/https://new.mta.info/document/2416 live Notes References 30em External links http://www.nycsubway.org/wiki/IRT_West_Side_Line#181st_Street IRT West Side Line 181st Street Station Reporter – 1 Train The Subway Nut – 181st Street Pictures https://web.archive.org/web/20200225155545/http://www.subwaynut.com/irt/181n1/index.php February 25, 2020 181st Street entrance from Google Maps Street View St. Nicholas Avenue entrance from Google Maps Street View Platforms from Google Maps Street View y yes Category:1906 establishments in New York City Category:IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line stations Category:New York City Subway stations in Manhattan Category:Railway and subway stations on the National Register of Historic Places in Manhattan Category:Railway stations in the United States opened in 1906 Category:Washington Heights, Manhattan Category:Historic district contributing properties in Manhattan Category:Individually listed contributing properties to historic districts on the National Register in New York (state) Category:New York State Register of Historic Places in New York County