IND Lines, 1924 - 1989

The Contract Books Collection is a series of approximately 400 discrete volumes (and numerous duplicates) depicting the construction, modification, modernization, and rehabilitation of routes, stations, and rail facilities built and operated by the IRT, BMT, and IND systems. Contracts document the lifespans of the New York City subway system’s various routes, from their original construction under the Dual Contracts Era and numerous platform extensions effected mid-century, to installation of new elevator, escalator, and other accessibility features towards the late 20th century. While most contracts pertain to track and line structures, the construction of other facilities is also included, depicting foundations, additions, and modernization projects performed on rail yards, electric substations, bus depots, administrative buildings, and police district offices. The contract books and by and large contain little text and are comprised nearly entirely of fold-out technical drawings reduced for binding purposes.