MAS: now is the time for a new Penn Station

Before: “One entered the city like a god." After: "One scut­tles in now like a rat.” MAS wants to make Penn Station great again.

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Diller Scofidio and Renfro's concept for a new Penn Station (image: DSR)
Diller Scofidio + Renfro’s concept for a new Penn Station (Image: DS+R)

The Municipal Art Society is campaigning hard for a new Penn Station — which would restore the second great train station of New York City to the grandeur it once had before the original building was demolished in 1963. The loss of the elegant glass roofed original was so painful to New Yorkers and to lovers of architecture that it resulted in strengthening New York’s landmark laws. The utilitarian replacement station, under Madison Square Garden, is still the busiest in the country, yet inspired these lines from architectural historian Vincent Scully:

“One entered the city like a god. One scuttles in now like a rat.”

According to the MAS, the City Council is holding a hearing on Wednesday, June 19, at which the public can express support; written support will be accepted till the council vote on July 10th. For more information about the campaign for a new Penn Station, see the MAS site. And watch the video below: