What Is the “Project X” Windowless Manhattan Skyscraper?
The official name of the windowless skyscraper is the AT&T Long Lines Building or simply the Long Lines Building. However, locals have given it an unofficial nickname: “Titanpointe,” a name that highlights the structure’s monumentality and perceived indestructibility.
Why and When Was the Skyscraper Built?
The AT&T Long Lines Building was completed in 1974 after five years of construction. The architect behind the project, John Carl Warnecke, was also responsible for designing several notable government buildings, such as the Hawaii State Capitol and the Eternal Flame Memorial for John F. Kennedy.
John Warnecke designed the windowless skyscraper to house three massive ATSs (Automated Telephone Service) — two from AT&T and one from Verizon. While the Verizon ATS was removed in 2009, AT&T still owns the building. Today, the structure not only serves telecommunications purposes but also houses a high-security data center.
Why Does the Building Have No Windows?
The absence of windows serves two key purposes:
- Energy efficiency: Solid walls help maintain cooler temperatures inside, reducing the need for air conditioning, especially during hot weather.
- Security: The building was designed to be highly resilient, capable of withstanding a nuclear explosion.
Because the building houses critical telecommunications infrastructure, international communication, and data, its security was prioritized. This has led to many conspiracy theories, with some claiming that the structure also serves as a headquarters for the NSA (National Security Agency). Though there is no concrete proof, rumors persist that the building is used for wiretapping and data surveillance.
The building is also designed for autonomous operation in case of emergencies. It contains enough water and food to sustain 1,500 people for up to 14 days, further fueling speculation that it could serve as a bunker for high-ranking officials in the event of a catastrophe.
Technically, the building does have small vents located on the 10th and 29th floors, but the rest of its facade is solid and devoid of even the smallest windows.
How Tall Is the Building?
The AT&T Long Lines Building stands 550 feet (approximately 167.7 meters) tall. While it’s far from the tallest skyscraper in New York, it remains one of the most mysterious.
Despite its height, the building only has 29 floors, fewer than a typical skyscraper of similar size, which would normally have more than 40 floors. This is due to the exceptionally high ceilings — each floor is 18 feet (~5.5 meters) tall — required to accommodate the ATS systems used when the building was constructed in the 1970s.
Additionally, each floor is designed to support a load of 3,300 pounds per square meter (about 1,500 kilograms), significantly more than the standard 700 pounds per square meter (about 300 kilograms) in regular buildings.
Interestingly, the building occupies almost an entire city block.
Where Is the Windowless Skyscraper Located?
The windowless skyscraper is located in Manhattan at the intersection of three streets:
- Thomas Street
- Church Street
- Worth Street
The official address is 33 Thomas St, New York, NY 10007.
You can combine your visit to this building with a trip to the Ghostbusters firehouse, which is within walking distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The AT&T Long Lines Building has sparked many questions, largely due to its secretive nature. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions:
How Can I Get Inside?
Unfortunately, tourists are not allowed inside. There are no public tours or tickets, and access is restricted to employees with proper credentials.
Is Photography Allowed?
There is no official restriction on photographing the building, even though it is often thought to serve classified purposes. You’re free to take pictures from any angle without violating any regulations.
What Is Inside the Windowless Skyscraper Now?
Officially, the building houses telecommunications equipment for cellular and internet services. Unofficially, some claim it serves as an NSA surveillance hub for monitoring phone calls and internet activity.
Why Was the Building Located in Manhattan?
Given the high cost of land in Manhattan, even in 1974, many wonder why this building was constructed in such a prime location. The most likely explanation is its proximity to AT&T’s former headquarters, which was located just a block away on 32nd Street. This made the current location a convenient choice for the new building.
If you know any other interesting facts about the windowless skyscraper in New York, feel free to share them in the comments!