This station was constructed as part of the Dual Contracts by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company and opened in 1918.

Following the completion of the original subway, there were plans to construct a line along Manhattan's east side north of 42nd Street.

In July 1911, the IRT had withdrawn from the talks, and the Brooklyn Rapid Transit Company (BRT) was to operate on Lexington Avenue.

[8][9] It was predicted that the subway extension would lead to the growth of the Upper East Side and the Bronx.

As part of the project, structural deficiencies were repaired, signage and lighting were enhanced, electrical service was upgraded, station facilities were rehabilitated, new fare arrays and a new token booth were installed, and portions of the station were upgraded to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

This station has staircases that lead out to the four corners of the intersection of 116th Street and Lexington Avenue.