59th Street–Lexington Avenue: A Key Hub in Midtown Manhattan

The 59th Street–Lexington Avenue station complex is a major subway hub located at the confluence of Midtown East and the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York. It serves as a crucial transfer point between several main subway lines, making it one of the busiest stations in the system. Its strategic location makes it a vital access point to commercial districts, luxury residential areas, and nearby cultural attractions.

Connections and Services

The 59th Street complex is a node that interconnects different parts of stations under the streets:

59th Street (Lexington Avenue Line)

• This part of the complex is an express station on the Lexington Avenue Line of the New York City Subway (IRT).
• It is served by trains of the following services:
  • 4 (green)
  • 5 (green)
  • 6 (green)
• Main entrance address: Lexington Avenue between 59th Street & 60th Street New York, NY 10022

59th Street (BMT Broadway Line)

• This part of the complex is a local station on the Broadway Line of the New York City Subway (BMT).
• It is served by trains of the following services:
  • N (yellow)
  • R (yellow)
  • W (yellow)
• Entrances to this section of the station are primarily located at 5th and Lexington Avenues, near 59th and 60th Streets.

The interconnection within this complex allows passengers to make convenient transfers between the Lexington Avenue Line (IRT) and the Broadway Line (BMT).

Importance and Location

• The station is located beneath the intersection of 59th Street and Lexington Avenue, extending to nearby avenues, on the border between Midtown East and the Upper East Side.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Midtown East

    • Known for its corporate offices, luxury shops, and department stores like Bloomingdale’s.
    • Vibrant commercial district with access to Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue.
    • Home to numerous companies and consulates.
    • Nearby landmark buildings.

  • Upper East Side (South)

    • A predominantly residential neighborhood known for its elegant buildings and proximity to Central Park.
    • Area of The Plaza Hotel and Grand Army Plaza at the southeast corner of Central Park.
    • Access to museums and galleries in the vicinity.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • Central Park: The southeast corner of the iconic park is a few blocks away.
    • Cable car to Roosevelt Island (Roosevelt Island Tramway): Accessible on foot.
    • 57th Street shopping district.

History and Evolution

• The Lexington Avenue Line (IRT) part of the station was inaugurated on July 17, 1918, and the BMT Broadway Line part on September 1, 1919.
• The station complex has undergone significant renovations over the years to improve passenger circulation, accessibility (including elevators), and overall aesthetics.
• Connections between the different lines and levels have been optimized to facilitate transfers.

Interesting Facts

• The station is one of the busiest in the New York City subway system, given its location in a major commercial and office district.
• Its location serves as a gateway to both Midtown shopping areas and Upper East Side residential areas.
• It is a key transfer point between trunk lines originally operated by rival companies (IRT and BMT) and offers cross-platform transfers for express and local services on the Lexington Avenue Line.