How much time to you actually have to catch a train at Grand Central Terminal?

May 14, 2012 6:09 AM

How much time do you actually have to catch a train at Grand Central Terminal?

I'm wondering what the last possible moment is to catch a train. For example, if you go through the entrance doors to the tracks, are you all set, or can the train still leave? If you're running to the entrance doors, does someone yell out a warning before they close?

And finally, is there some standard amount of "cushion time" added to departure times, or is it essentially unpredictable?

Thanks,

Jon

posted by Jon44 to Travel & Transportation around New York, NY (5 answers total)

I used to commute to and from GCT. I would say that the conductors are very accommodating for late arrivals--if they see you running, they'll hold the train.

I'd also say that if they do not see anyone coming, they will leave promptly at the scheduled time; don't count on any cushion. If your train is at 9, I would make sure to be there by 9.

I think you generally have 10-15 minutes from the time they announce the track to saunter onto the train.
posted by Admiral Haddock at 6:16 AM on May 14, 2012

built-in cushion time for commuter trains: one minute.
posted by ElCuadrangular at 6:27 AM on May 14, 2012 [2 favorites]

They leave on time. There is a warning bell that you can hear if you are on the platform that implies to get into an open door because they are leaving. I have been on the platform running toward the train and had it close the doors and leave. Do not count on any extra time.
posted by JohnnyGunn at 6:28 AM on May 14, 2012 [1 favorite]

"I have been on the platform running toward the train and had it close the doors and leave. Do not count on any extra time."

Yes, me too. You basically have exactly until the train is scheduled to leave. You might get lucky being half a minute late, but you might not.
posted by DestinationUnknown at 6:32 AM on May 14, 2012 [1 favorite]

The Secret New York Minute: Trains Late by Design
Every commuter train that leaves New York City deliberately leaves a minute late, to help the harried.
posted by monospace at 11:44 AM on May 14, 2012