Union Square: A Vibrant Interchange in the Heart of Manhattan

Union Square station is a major subway complex located in Manhattan, New York. It serves as a crucial transfer point between numerous subway lines, making it one of the busiest and most vital stations in the system. Its strategic location in Union Square, at the confluence of several key neighborhoods, makes it a fundamental access point for commercial, cultural, and residential destinations.

Connections and Services

Union Square station is a complex that integrates several stations under one name, allowing transfers between multiple lines:

BMT Broadway and Canarsie Lines

• This part of the complex serves the BMT Broadway Line and the BMT Canarsie Line.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • L (gray)
  • N (yellow)
  • Q (yellow)
  • R (yellow)
  • W (yellow – weekdays only)
• Main entrance: Various entrances around Union Square Park, at the intersection of Broadway, 4th Avenue, and 14th Street.

IRT Lexington Avenue Line

• This part of the complex is a station on the Lexington Avenue Line of the New York City Subway.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • 4 (green)
  • 5 (green)
  • 6 (green)
• Entrances to this section are also located around Union Square Park.

The interconnection within the Union Square complex allows passengers to make seamless transfers between the Broadway, Canarsie, and Lexington Avenue lines.

Importance and Location

• The station is located beneath Union Square Park, at the intersection of 14th Street, Broadway, and Fourth Avenue, on the border of the Greenwich Village, East Village, Flatiron District, and Gramercy Park neighborhoods.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Union Square Park

    • Known for its farmers market (Greenmarket), public events, and green spaces.
    • Historic statues and monuments.
    • Popular meeting spot for locals and tourists.

  • Around Union Square

    • Numerous shops, including department stores and boutiques.
    • Restaurants and bars for all tastes.
    • Nearby theaters and concert halls.
    • New York University (NYU) and The New School are within walking distance.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • Flatiron Building: An iconic building of unique architecture.
    • Gramercy Park: A historic private park (limited access).
    • Strand Bookstore: A famous independent bookstore with “18 miles of books.”

History and Evolution

• The first part of the station, corresponding to the IRT Lexington Avenue Line, was inaugurated on October 27, 1904, as part of the original New York City subway system.
• The BMT Canarsie Line platforms opened in 1924, and the BMT Broadway Line platforms opened in 1917.
• The complex has been renovated and modernized on various occasions to improve passenger flow and accessibility, including the addition of elevators.

Interesting Facts

• Union Square is one of the busiest stations in the NYC subway system, handling a huge daily flow of passengers.
• It is famous for its public art, including mosaics and temporary installations.
• The station serves as a vital link between Lower Manhattan and Midtown, connecting multiple key lines.