Looking forward, looking back at Grand Central

The Island Now

Let us all rejoice in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Grand Central Terminal, which first opened on Feb. 2, 1913. 

Contrast this with the late, great Penn Station Terminal which was destroyed in the name of progress in 1962. Fast forward, 51 years later. Penn Station is still a shell of its former glory. There is no natural lighting, decent food court, gourmet food shops, upscale stores or quality restaurants. 

Most Long Island Rail Road and New Jersey Transit commuters rush in and out each day. Grand Central Terminal has high ceilings, natural light, a food court, gourmet food shops, upscale stores and great restaurants such as the Oyster Bar.

Not only do Metro North commuters have a real terminal, but they are joined on a daily basis by thousands of people who work nearby and patronize the great food court, quality restaurants and stores. LIRR commuters just have a station. Few people who work nearby Penn Station stop by during the day to patronize any of its commercial establishments.

LIRR riders look forward to 2019 when the MTA Eastside Access project provides a direct connection to Grand Central Station via the 63rd Street tunnel and reaches beneficial use. We can then join our Metro North comrades in utilizing this great institution to and from work.

 

Larry Penner

Great Neck

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