Mapping out Elevator History

Mapping out Elevator History

Based off the year 2017, the New York City Department of Buildings published their first ever elevator report. The report provides data and statistics for more than 84,000 elevator devices in NYC.  Escalators, freight elevators, dumbwaiters, wheelchair lifts, and passenger elevators are among the devices found in the DOB’s report.  Citywide Elevator Consultants focus on a full range of services for all types of vertical transportation including new construction and modernization of major hotels, universities, government facilities, commercial and residential buildings and retail locations.

Maps and animated graphics depicting the history, vital statistics, and current condition of elevators throughout the city can be found in this most recent report. One map offers the ability to see the number and type of devices found in a particular area.  Another map provides any complaints or violations in the city.  An interactive map illustrates every elevator in the city including freight elevators, passenger elevators, roller-coasters, and dumbwaiters. Amid the maps and graphics, you can able find a section of the report dedicated to elevator history. Readers can travel through time starting in the 1850’s NYC with the installation of the first freight elevator up to the 1920/30’s with the creation of private penthouse entrances. 

The Department of Buildings has 84,000 elevators under their jurisdiction. 63,000 of those are passenger elevators.  At Citywide, our team optimizes elevator maintenance standards for clients with elevator portfolios that extend from New York City and beyond. CEC has successfully served megacorporations such as Cushman & Wakefield, CBRE, Columbia University, Hilton Hotels, Home Depot, Millennium Hotels, Equinox and Travelers Insurance.