1. The Second Avenue Subway Stations, whether vaulted or rectangular in profile, are column-free to the extent possible. This structural strategy will improve passenger flow, visibility, and security. In order to achieve the column-free structure without excessive cost or large beam depths, economical structural spans and spacing modules are incorporated into station design.

2. The underplatform and overtrack exhaust systems are central to the air-tempering and ventilation strategies. Exhaust ducts and fans will remove air from areas closest to the two largest sources of heat in the station-the brakes and car air conditioners. In the winter, by turning these exhaust systems off, enough heat will be retained within the station to render mechanical heating unnecessary.

3. During a fire, the mechanical system operates in an emergency mode and extracts smoke from the tunnel and underground stations. Simultaneously, the system provides fresh air to passenger egress areas, to create zones of higher air pressure and to minimize migration of smoke.

4. The lighting design for the Second Avenue Subway will improve the passenger experience with brightly lit walls, enhanced lighting at transition points, and the use of daylight, especially at entrances. Energy-efficient technologies, in concert with a stationwide lighting control system, will be incorporated throughout.

5. The new subway line's signage will employ both fixed and variable messaging elements. The centrally controlled variable-messaging system will display updated train information and emergency information. Fixed and variable signage will be integrated into the architectural features to increase visual clarity and enhance navigation.

6. Through geometry and the strategic use of sound-absorptive materials, the stations will provide comfortable aural environments with a clear and intelligible public address system.