New York Subway Expansion

On August 24, 1904, the IRT subway in New York opened additional segments, expanding the original 1904 line. Using innovative third-rail electrification and steel cars from companies like American Car & Foundry, it alleviated street congestion. Engineer William Barclay Parsons overcame tunneling challenges beneath the Hudson. This expansion supported massive immigration and skyscraper development, setting standards for rapid transit worldwide and influencing subway designs in London and Tokyo.