4. The Roosevelt Island Tram was Initially Designed as a Temporary Solution for Commuters, Replacing a Trolley

Before the construction of the Roosevelt Island Tram, commuting from Roosevelt Island to Manhattan was rather difficult. The trolley tracks connecting the two had been slowly deteriorating beyond repair and the city was in need of a temporary transportation solution for commuters while the subway station on Roosevelt Island was being finished.

The aerial tramway was chosen as the most efficient solution and construction began immediately. As the plans for the subway station continued to fall behind schedule, the tram became popular and was converted into a permanent facility, even after the station on Roosevelt Island was completed in 1989. Although it isn’t quite as popular as it was before the subway’s opening, the tram is still a safe and efficient way to commute.