The night before Hudson Yards is unveiled to the world, thousands streamed through the complex for a preview of the mall at the center of the multi-billion dollar development.
In addition to retail, the 44,000 square foot complex will include luxury high rises, offices, restaurants and even a public school. An estimated 125,000 people are expected to move in, causing some to wonder about the impact on the infrastructure on the west side, including the 7 subway line which is extended to accommodate the expected increase in traffic.
The Firefighter's Union raised more concerns about the development.
"They have never considered putting a firehouse in there, I believe that was shortsighted," said Gerard Fitzgerald, President of the Uniformed Firefighter’s Association of Greater New York.
Fitzgerald said it will likely take crews more than 10 minutes to respond to an emergency.
"The planning was never there, the money has not been allocated and there is no solution right now," Fitzgerald continued.
But city fire officials say they are aware and an FDNY spokesperson responded to the worries.
"We have begun working with the mayor’s office to begin the process of finding space on the west side for new department facilities and resources,” said Francis Gribbon, the Deputy Commissioner for Public Information.
But Hudson Yards grand opening remains on track, with many looking to the possible benefits.
"New York is one of those places where people come in religiously every day, so it's like you can't avoid it, it's actually helping us build up the economy a little bit," said one person at the grand opening.
Hudson Yards President Jay Cross didn't comment on the concern about the lack of a fire house at the ceremony, but it’s certainly far from settled as far as the debate is concerned.
As for the grand opening, it will go on with all of the fanfare that you would imagine.