You’ve probably noticed the whimsical Tom Otterness Life Underground sculptures while at the 14th Street A/C/E station, but did you notice the MTA Signal Learning School? Heralded by a traffic light that actually changes colors, the official name of the school is the Charles E. Morehouse Signals Learning Center. According to a nearby plaque, Charles “exemplified the commitment to excellence that is the trademark of maintenance of way-signals” from 1953-2002.
Inside, suddenly the transit system turns into a 1960s era school corridor, with linoleum floors, glass block walls and a paneled, dropped ceiling. There isn’t too much written about the Signal Training Center, but we do know that in December 2013 a new exit was installedto go directly to street level, along with a new fire sprinkler system.
Michelle is the founder of Untapped New York and the author of The Art Spy (HarperOne, forthcoming) Secret Brooklyn, Secret New York Hidden Bars & Restaurants, and Broadway. michelleyoungwriter.com
