103rd Street: A Key Local Station on the Upper West Side

The 103rd Street station is a local subway station located on the IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York. It serves as an important access point for residents and visitors of this predominantly residential neighborhood. Its location on Broadway connects it to one of the main arteries of Manhattan’s west side.

Connections and Services

The 103rd Street station is a single station serving one main subway line:

103rd Street Station (Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line)

• This station belongs to the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line of the IRT system of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by the following service train:
  • 1 (red)
• Main entrance address: Broadway and West 103rd Street, New York, NY 10025

Platform Details and Accessibility

• The station has two side platforms and two tracks.
• Notable features:
  • Only local trains operate.
  • The station is not ADA-accessible (it does not have elevators).
• Entrances and exits are located at street level at the intersection of Broadway and 103rd Street.

This station primarily serves the local community of the Upper West Side, offering local service along the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of Broadway and 103rd Street, in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to area destinations such as:

  • Upper West Side (North)

    • Predominantly residential area with pre-war buildings.
    • Proximity to Riverside Park, offering green spaces and views of the Hudson River.
    • Close to local shops, cafes, and restaurants along Broadway.

  • Upper West Side (South)

    • Access to Straus Park at the intersection of Broadway and West End Avenue.
    • Short walk east to reach Central Park.
    • Variety of dining and shopping options on nearby avenues.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • Symphony Space: A cultural center offering music, dance, and theater.
    • Bloomingdale Playground: A popular playground in the area.
    • Various religious and community institutions.

History and Evolution

• The 103rd Street station was opened on October 27, 1904, as part of the first underground subway line of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT).
• The station has maintained much of its original design, although it has received maintenance and minor updates over the years.
• It is part of the historical core of the New York City subway system.

Interesting Facts

• The station is a vital point for the daily commutes of area residents.
• It features original mosaics from the time of its opening, characteristic of the early IRT stations.
• It houses the artwork “Las Memorias de Nuestras Nacionas” (The Memories of Our Nations) (1995) by Nitza Tufiño on the platform walls.