In 2004, this architect had already developed a project for a new terminal at the main New York station, but then it was recognized as insufficiently careful in relation to historical monuments: according to the customers' idea, new railway tracks will be laid in the former post office building of the early 20th century. At the same time, critics spoke very warmly about Childs' version, in particular - about the project of glazing of ceilings, which rises above the main volume of the building, like a high arch.
A year later, the public was presented with an alternative project, already by the architectural firm HOK. But he, too, did not satisfy the developers, The Related Companies and the Vornado Realty Trust, who again offered cooperation to SOM and David Childs. The reason for this was the technical difficulties in the implementation of the HOK project and its excessively high cost (the official budget of the project is $ 818 million).
The glass slabs, according to the new version, will be supported by a network of steel cables. Above the train hall, the roof will be flatter, and above the lobby it will be steeper. The "arch" of Childs' previous project had to be removed, as it would have been visible from the street, disrupting the historical appearance of the building, and developers would not have received about $ 100 million in tax breaks from the city authorities for the careful preservation of the monument.
Another change is that the operating room of the post office will be restored and will continue to function like a regular post office. It occupies only 3% of the area of the old building, so this decision will not affect future passengers at Moynihan Station.
In addition to the railway terminal with an area of 28,000 sq. m, the new complex will include shops, an elite hotel and restaurants.
