Case Study: NYC MTA Subway Station Escalator Upgrade

As part of an initiative to modernize transit infrastructure and improve rider accessibility, the New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) launched a multi-year escalator upgrade program across several major subway stations. Skanska USA Civil Northeast, the general contractor, was tasked with managing the complex renovation, which included providing access to new escalator machine rooms (EMRs) and shafts embedded below-grade in tight, high-traffic environments. 

Acudor Products was brought on to custom-engineer floor access hatches that could meet strict MTA performance standards for watertightness, durability, and security—while accommodating space and structural constraints unique to aging NYC infrastructure. 

Technical Challenges 

The access solutions needed to address a range of technical and environmental factors: 

• Structural interference from existing beams and concrete forms required a non-standard frame design. 
• Security compliance necessitated compatibility with NYC’s oversized padlock systems. 
• Water intrusion prevention was critical due to the below-grade location of the EMRs and potential exposure to surface runoff. 
• Load-bearing requirements had to account for pedestrian traffic and occasional service equipment. 

Acudor’s Custom Solution 

Acudor engineered a custom variant of its FC-300 Series floor access door—our gasketed, watertight floor hatch designed for flush installation in concrete floors exposed to exterior or high-moisture environments. 

Technical Specifications: 

• Model: Custom FC-300 
• Size: 24" x 36" clear opening 
• Material: Type 304 Stainless Steel (door and frame) for corrosion resistance in transit environments 
• Door Panel: 1/4" diamond plate reinforced to support up to 300 lbs/sq ft live load 
• Frame: Angle frame with 1-1/2” drain coupling and 1/4” neoprene gasket, factory-welded 
• Hinges & Lifting: Stainless steel continuous piano hinge, enclosed automatic hold-open arm with red vinyl grip handle 
  • Locking: Custom recessed slamlock and padlock hasp to accept NYC’s special oversized padlocks 
  • Security retained without compromising water channel integrity 
• Finish: Mill finish stainless steel (non-slip surface) 

Custom Engineering Highlights: 

• The recessed lock mechanism was specially modified to maintain the uninterrupted full-perimeter drainage channel, ensuring water tightness even with added locking hardware. 
• The frame geometry was reworked in collaboration with Skanska field engineers to fit between dense beam networks while maintaining the hatch’s structural integrity and operability. 
• Spring mechanisms were enclosed to reduce exposure to debris and corrosion, critical in subway environments. 

Outcome 

The result was a high-performance, code-compliant access solution that delivered on all technical and operational fronts. The hatches were installed across multiple stations with zero post-installation adjustments required, demonstrating the precision of Acudor’s fabrication and design coordination. 

Benefits realized: 

•  Watertight seal ensured long-term protection of escalator electrical and mechanical systems 
•  Secure locking met NYC MTA safety protocols without field modification 
•  Custom fitment avoided costly field alterations or delays 
•  Corrosion-resistant materials ensured longevity in a demanding, high-traffic environment 

Skanska and the MTA both praised the smooth integration and performance of the access systems, and Acudor’s ability to meet tight deadlines and evolving site requirements. 

Product Reference 

Acudor FC-300 Watertight Floor Door View Product Spec Sheet 

Learn more about the FC-300