On January 1, 2025, Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as New York City’s mayor at the historic Old City Hall subway station. This abandoned transit hub, which opened its doors in 1904, will serve as the backdrop for Mamdani’s private ceremony.
Mamdani’s Historic Swearing-In Ceremony
The Old City Hall subway station, located beneath City Hall, has been closed since 1945. It is only accessible through guided tours, making this event particularly special. Mamdani, who will become the city’s first Muslim mayor, described the station as “a physical monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and build great things that would transform working peoples’ lives.”
Old City Hall Subway Station: A Brief History
- Opened: 1904
- Closed: 1945
- Designed by: Rafael Guastavino
- Significance: One of NYC’s original 28 subway stations
After the private ceremony, Mamdani’s public inauguration will take place outside City Hall. The choice of venue highlights the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Visiting the Old City Hall Station
Currently, the Old City Hall station can be visited via tours conducted by the New York Transit Museum. These tours offer a unique glimpse into the station’s ornate architecture, characterized by vaulted tile archways.
- Tour Access: Only available to New York Transit Museum members
- Membership Cost: Starts at $65 per year
- Tour Ticket Price: $50
Graham Rapier, a former reporter, noted the use of a ramp to help visitors navigate the gap between the subway cars and the platform during the tours. The station’s accessibility remains a challenge due to its design and longer modern train cars.
Significance of the Ceremony
Mamdani, at 34 years old, will be the youngest mayor of New York City since 1892. His election marks a significant milestone in the city’s diverse political landscape. The event on January 1 will not only celebrate his ascension to office but also highlight a cultural moment for the city.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Swearing-In Date | January 1, 2025 |
| Inauguration Location | Old City Hall subway station |
| First Muslim Mayor | Yes |
| Youngest Mayor | Since 1892 |
This event brings a historical location back to life, signaling a new chapter for New York City under Mamdani’s leadership.
