Substation 219

Substation 219 is a single-story electrical power facility with double-height interior space built from masonry at 309 West 133rd Street. The structure features limestone trim, brick chevron patterns, and geometric aluminum doors marking its entrance.

The Independent Subway System built this facility in 1932 to power the IND Eighth Avenue Line subway trains. It emerged during the subway expansion that connected different parts of the city.

The limestone frieze with diamond-shaped ornaments reflects industrial design values of the 1930s, blending practical function with artistic detail. This decorative approach gives technical infrastructure an appealing visual quality that marked the era.

The building is protected and receives funding and tax benefits for preservation work. Confirm access and timing before visiting, as it remains an active facility.

The structure uses aluminum for geometric door elements, which was unusual for industrial buildings in the 1930s. This material was expensive at the time and signals the technical ambition behind the project.

Location: Manhattan

Architectural style: Art Deco architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.81556,-73.94806

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:40