The new images show how transit officials hope to turn Penn Station’s dark caverns into a modern, light-filled transit center.
Reports point to two possible ways to renovate Penn Station – none of which would require a move to Madison Square Garden, MTA executive Janno Lieber told Wednesday’s monthly board meeting.
According to a proposal, 40% of the upper level of the station would have been removed – creating a single-level installation with ceilings 40 meters high.
The other “two-tier” alternative would maintain the upper tier more, but would create an atrium in a former Amtrak waiting area.
On 33rd Street, MTA and city officials want to move MSG loading areas to create an expansive pedestrian market with a majestic entrance as a central element, Lieber said.
Governor Andrew Cuomo’s grand vision for the area also includes new routes, one block south of the current Midtown complex, which stretches 7 and 8 boulevards between 30th and 31st streets.
A third Penn Station concept unveiled on Wednesday could take over the space facing 8th Avenue, currently occupied by the Hulu Theater, which is part of Madison Square Garden.
But Lieber said unleashing theater theater utilities on the arena would cost another $ 1 billion or more and fail to crowd the 7th Avenue crowds.
“I would say that we have emphasized this, at least in the MTA’s view, as a priority,” he said. “Part of 7th Avenue is where people are and where we need to prioritize.”
State officials are working with NJ Transit and Amtrak to determine the next steps.
Lieber said officials must act quickly to prepare for the additional request created by a new tunnel over the Hudson River, which officials hope will proceed under President Biden.
“This is our chance,” he said. “We know we have to have a Penn station that is ready to receive that extra capacity when the tunnels are completed. It’s not that far. ”
