Cracked Sidewalk Reveals Subway Entrance in Downtown NYC

A large hole has appeared in the sidewalk near Battery Park, exposing a glimpse into the subway below. The opening, roughly the size of a baseball, emerged last week and has since been temporarily covered with a bolted orange cone.

Video footage shows light emanating from the hole, which drops between a concrete layer and the ceiling of the Bowling Green subway station beneath. The unusual sight offers a rare view of the station’s interior, much to the fascination—and concern—of passersby.

Local residents took the situation humorously, joking that the hole might serve as a “special rat express entrance.” The cause of the hole remains unclear, but a city worker at a ferry ticket stand mentioned that the cone has been in place for several days, serving as a placeholder.

Despite the apparent hazard, the cone prevents any immediate danger, and the worker noted that the cracked sidewalk surrounding the hole suggests ongoing or future repairs might address the broader infrastructure issues in the area.

The Parks Department, now aware of the hole, considers it a “high priority” and is assessing the best repair method. Until then, the small orange cone marks the spot of the city’s latest and most curious underground opening.