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Early Addition
Many busy areas in the city have big cement barriers or huge flower planters masquerading as barriers (in order to prevent terrorism!), which makes for better security but an ugly exterior walking experience, though they may be handy as things to lean on and place bags. AM New York reports that new "elegant" security bollards are going to be installed at Grand Central Terminal. Metro-North tells AMNY that "These bollards will have a bronze-like cap over a high-strength structural steel base. They will be architecturally in concert with the historical era of the building." Hmm, but, really, what about the building's original architects think? Gothamist is happy that they are trying to improve the cosmetic appearance, but if Grand Central starts selling advertising space on them... well, we'd find architecturally correct ways to say "UGH". The bollard project costs $10 million, coming from a Department of Homeland security grant (DHS does manage to fund some stuff here), and there will be more than 200 barriers put in.
Transportation Alternatives had recommendations for more attractive bollards downtown.
Photograph by t a i s on Flickr of the old barriers
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Is that Angel, from X3, in the picture? Now THAT is security.
Angel Wings and leather pants? interesting...
i effing hate those barriers in front of grand central. it makes it impossible to walk on the sidewalk. coupled with the construction on the lexington ave side, it allows enough space for one person.
"Cement" is to "flour" as "concrete" is to "bread"
I think it should be Concrete.
I learned this the hard way ... and I'm still not over it!
The terroists have won.
Those stupid barriers are proof.
So you can't drive a vehicle in Grand central.
But those barriers won't stop a idiot with explosives in rolling luggage.
No matter what someone can get through.
Terrorists need to be stopped before they can blow stuff up.
Oh but wait that is a job where law enforcement has to THINK...
Oh... ok... that is why there are barriers. They are easier than real police work and a thought process.
Only in NYC would such a picture be used to illustrate a concrete bollard rather than the man in black leather pants and white angel wings directly in front of the bollard... with no comment necessary. Love it.
I get the feeling law enforcement is thinking pretty hard (and effectively) as it is.
Barrier mania has more to do with insurance liability and jittery local decision-makers than it does with law enforcement. This bollard upgrade is a move in a better direction.
Hey Chung, quit posting and get back in the bedroom!
Leslie - hilarious observation.
copyranter -who says she's not posting from her bed, from throes of ecstasy, even?