The plan itself drew major opposition from the public and architects, especially from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, as it would have resulted in the destruction of the terminal.

By the 1950s, passenger volumes at Grand Central Terminal had declined dramatically from the early 20th century, and there were proposals to demolish and replace the station.

[1][2] The New York Central Railroad was losing money, partially on paying taxes on the building's air rights.

New York Central wanted to sell the property or its air rights to allow the construction of a skyscraper above or on the terminal's site.

[15][16] The structure was built on the site of the former Grand Central Terminal Baggage Building, which was demolished to make way for its construction.

[25] The most prominent criticisms came from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who stated: Is it not cruel to let our city die by degrees, stripped of all her proud monuments, until there will be nothing left of all her history and beauty to inspire our children?

Maybe... this is the time to take a stand, to reverse the tide, so that we won't all end up in a uniform world of steel and glass boxes.