9. FDR Rode the Inaugural Ride


FDR’s 1932 Packard Car, driven by Governor Andrew Cuomo

The Midtown Tunnel was intended to be constructed starting in the early 1930s, but like many public works, it was derailed by the Great Depression. But the project came back to life in 1935, thanks to a $58 million Public Works Administration Loan, signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

A few weeks before opening day, FDR became the first person to drive through the tunnel. Roosevelt also signaled the ground breaking in 1936 with the push of a ceremonial button.