The lower level was built first and had two tracks and two side platforms and served local trains.

The upper level was built as part of the Dual Contracts and had one track that served express trains that bypassed this station.

Its high elevation also led to its having a reputation as a popular location for suicide jumps.

In 1927, The New York Times reported that: The number of suicides from the 110th Street Station of the Sixth Avenue elevated is ruining the business of the merchants with shops below, according to [the merchants]....

According to [a spokesperson] there were eleven suicides from that station in the past year, and the effect has been such that potential customers prefer to walk a little farther rather than risk seeing a person hurtle from above.