Grand Central Terminal in New York City is a bustling hub, with throngs of commuters streaming in and out each day, and patrons enjoying meals and drinks at its renowned restaurants and bars. Yet, hidden within this iconic structure are two secret areas that remain largely unseen by the public. One of these is M-42, a bunker situated nine stories below the terminal’s lowest floor. During World War II, this bunker was shrouded in secrecy and guarded by personnel with shoot-to-kill orders. The fear of potential sabotage while the station’s trains were transporting troops added an air of mystery to this subterranean space.
Below the grandeur of Grand Central lies Track 61, an unlisted track absent from any official train map. This track was designed for affluent travelers arriving on private trains, featuring a unique freight elevator that ascends to the garage level of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Among its notable users, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt stands out. Afflicted by polio and reliant on leg braces and a wheelchair, FDR often utilized Track 61. His private train was equipped with a special car to accommodate his Pierce-Arrow limousine. This arrangement allowed FDR to seamlessly transition from train to hotel, shielding the public from witnessing his mobility challenges.
The clandestine nature of Track 61 served a dual purpose, providing VIPs like FDR with discreet access while concealing any visible signs of disability from public view. This hidden entrance into the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel ensured that the President’s movements remained private and dignified, despite his physical limitations.
These secret areas beneath Grand Central Terminal add layers of intrigue to its storied history. M-42’s wartime role reflects the station’s strategic significance during critical periods, while Track 61’s covert operations offer a glimpse into the lengths taken to preserve the privacy and security of notable figures. These hidden spaces serve as reminders of the terminal’s multifaceted past, blending practicality with a touch of clandestine allure.