NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — The second tallest office tower in New York City officially opened its doors on Monday.
One Vanderbilt pierces the sky at just over 1,400 square-feet and connects directly to Grand Central Terminal.
The building, which opened as office workers continue to work from home, was able to build so high by including around $220 million in subway repairs below ground.
People will be able to walk underground from the building to the terminal, which will include a direct link to a new Long Island Rail Road Terminal – the East Side Access tunnel being constructed beneath Grand Central.
MTA Chief Development Officer Janno Lieber says the improvements should reduce congestion.
“We've added stairways so that people can get on and off the platforms much more easily,” he said. “We've added elevators.”
SL Green Realty CEO Marc Holliday says his company will be moving in and he is bullish on the future of New York City and its recovery from the pandemic.
“This city has been written off many times before and has always rebounded stronger than ever,” he said.
The project also includes a large public plaza.
The 1.7 million square feet of office space at One Vanderbilt is around 67% leased and has already been modernized to prevent the spread of coronavirus with UV lights.
Business leaders have criticized Mayor Bill de Blasio for not being enough of a cheerleader during the COVID downturn. The mayor attended the ribbon cutting on Monday.
"This is one of the first and most tangible signs of the rebirth of New York City," de Blasio said, offering a rosy view. "This city doesn't just survive tough times, we transform."
The $3 billion project has been in the works for 20 years.