SKU: 431135154

The Routes Not Taken: A Trip Through New York City's Unbuilt Subway System

Sale price$19.09 Regular price$21.21
Save 10%

Pay in installments of $5.30 with ShopPay, AfterPay and Klarna

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Sep 23 - Sep 28

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

The Routes Not Taken: A Trip Through New York City's Unbuilt Subway SystemRobert A. Van Wyck, mayor of the greater city of New York, broke ground for the first subway line by City Hall on March 24, 1900. It took four years, six months, and twenty three days to build the line from City Hall to West 145th Street in Harlem. Things rarely went that quickly ever again. The Routes Not Taken explores the often dramatic stories behind the unbuilt or unfinished subway lines, shedding light on a significant part of New York City's

Robert A. Van Wyck, mayor of the greater city of New York, broke ground for the first subway line by City Hall on March 24, 1900. It took four years, six months, and twenty-three days to build the line from City Hall to West 145th Street in Harlem. Things rarely went that quickly ever again. The Routes Not Taken explores the often dramatic stories behind the unbuilt or unfinished subway lines, shedding light on a significant part of New York City's history that has been almost completely ignored until now.

Home to one of the world's largest subway systems, New York City made constant efforts to expand its underground labyrinth, efforts that were often met with unexpected obstacles: financial shortfalls, clashing agendas of mayors and borough presidents, battles with local community groups, and much more. After discovering a copy of the 1929 subway expansion map, author Joseph Raskin began his own investigation into the city's underbelly. Using research from libraries, historical societies, and transit agencies throughout the New York metropolitan area, Raskin provides a fascinating history of the Big Apple's unfinished business that until now has been only tantalizing stories retold by public-transit experts.

The Routes Not Taken sheds light on the tunnels and stations that were completed for lines that were never fulfilled: the efforts to expand the Hudson tubes into a fullfledged subway; the Flushing line, and why it never made it past Flushing; a platform underneath Brooklyn's Nevins Street station that has remained unused for more than a century; and the 2nd Avenue line--long the symbol of dashed dreams--deferred countless times since the original plans were presented in 1929. Raskin also reveals the figures and personalities involved, including why Fiorello LaGuardia could not grasp the importance of subway lines and why Robert Moses found them to be old and boring. By focusing on the unbuilt lines, Raskin illustrates how the existing subway system is actually a Herculean feat of countless political compromises.

Filled with illustrations of the extravagant expansion plans, The Routes Not Taken provides an enduring contribution to the transportation history of New York City.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Fordham University Press
Published: 09/01/2015
ISBN: 9780823267408
Pages: 336
Weight: 1.40lbs
Size: 9.70h x 6.20w x 0.90d
Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 431135154

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.8 ★★★★★
Based on 19 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
S
Verified Purchase
S. McCartin
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
good for puppys young dogs, handle is separate, locking carabiners on both ends
Color: Orange, Size: 30FT
This is a good sturdy leash but probably wouldn't stand up to a conscientious chewer if your dogo has that bad habit. I like this one because the handle is separate so it can be used both as a tie out lead and as a regular lead. I also like the "locking" carabiners that should not open accidentally. I bought the thirty foot version because my new puppy loves to go outside then refuse to come back in or let me catch him when I need him to come inside (not catching me silly Hooman). When he's bigger I won't be so concerned about him being outside alone but since I'm in a sort of rural area, we have the occasional fox and hawk around when the sun goes down. Not too much to worry about in the way of pests but every puppy parent has an obligation to protect their young'un till they gain some wisdom. I have stairs in the back of the house, the way this is made I can attach it to the banister easily so I don't even need one of those tie stakes that bury in the ground. The price wasn't bad, the hardware looks sturdy and should last awhile. I just also bought the fifteen foot version, same quality as the thirty foot product I like that the handle is separate so it can be used as a tie down or a leash easily. My only big wish would perhaps be some more color choices, the orange is nice for visibility a yellow would be nice and then maybe some other colors like red/purple would be good as well. The thickness of the rope means that it doesn't "easily" get tangled into a giant knot. I leave the back door open and puppers can go in and out as he likes but he also sometimes runs around in the living room and thus far haven't had any large tangles to unwrap. He did manage to get the leash caught around a piece of tree branch that was on the ground (and complained loudly) but that was only because the branch was too heavy for him to drag the lead off of by himself. These leads are worth the money, I will likely buy a couple more to keep in the vehicle and other locations besides home.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 29, 2026
M
Verified Purchase
MyCountryStory
Carnegie, US
★★★★★ 5
My Go-To Leash for Outdoor Fun and Training with My Lab Puppy
Color: Orange, Size: 15FT
The Joytale Long Leash, specifically the 15-foot model, is an exceptional product that has seamlessly integrated into the daily activities of our black lab puppy. Purchasing this leash has proven to be a decision that greatly benefits both our family and our energetic puppy, especially during our adventures in the backyard and while hiking. The vibrant orange color of the leash stands out, which is not just visually appealing but also significantly enhances safety by ensuring the leash remains highly visible. This feature is particularly useful in varied terrains and during low-light conditions, providing peace of mind that our puppy is always within sight and safe. The leash's design, featuring a removable padded handle, has been a game-changer for comfort. The padding ensures that our hands are protected from any strain or discomfort, even during those longer hikes or when our puppy gets a bit too excited and pulls. This thoughtful inclusion has made our outdoor adventures much more enjoyable, allowing us to focus on the fun and bonding with our puppy rather than any potential discomfort. Equally impressive is the double hook mechanism that the Joytale Long Leash boasts. This feature has instilled a great sense of security in us, knowing that the leash is securely attached to our puppy’s collar or harness. It's especially reassuring during hikes in more challenging terrains where a secure leash attachment is crucial for our puppy's safety. The 15-foot length of the leash has been perfect for our needs. It provides ample space for our black lab puppy to explore and play, whether we're in the backyard or adventuring through hiking trails. This length strikes a perfect balance, offering enough freedom for him to explore while still under our control, facilitating a safe and enjoyable environment for him to learn and grow. Durability is another aspect where the Joytale Long Leash shines. It has stood up to the rigorous daily activities of our puppy, showing no signs of wear and tear. This durability is not only a testament to the quality of the materials used but also to the thoughtful design that has gone into making this leash a reliable accessory for pet owners.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2024
B
Verified Purchase
Brenda M.
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 5
Great long leash, would buy again
Color: Blue, Size: 30FT
Well-made leash, perfect for recall training and other situations where the dog needs a bit of space to roam without getting into trouble. Seems to be comfortable for the dog, as it is not inhibiting him from running around and playing. I bought the 30 foot length 3/8” diameter version. Light weight, good value for the price. Best feature is the locking carabiner, because my rescue pup “moonlights” as an escape artist. 🤣🤣
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2026
A
Verified Purchase
Amazon Customer
Grantham, US
★★★★★ 5
Good quality
Color: Black, Size: 30FT
30 feet is perfect for training. Nice sturdy training lead
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2026
T
Verified Purchase
Tracie
Grantham, US
★★★★★ 4
Good lead for the price
Color: Orange, Size: 30FT
Well made and strong lead that’s not too heavy. Hardware is secure. Nice bright color. Comes with padded handle.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2026

recommand products