Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

In the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the relentless hum of industry echoed through the air. Within the confines of a dimly lit office adorned with maps and blueprints, Poul and Jonathan hunched over a table, deeply engrossed in conversation about the intriguing proposition Caroline Dupont had laid before them.

"Regarding the metro station, has it been confirmed that New York's Board of Transportation is seeking a solution for the gridlock plaguing their streets?" Poul inquired, his eyes reflecting the intensity of his thoughts.

Jonathan ran a weary hand through his disheveled hair, his voice laden with fatigue from his tireless efforts. "I had to contact Caroline twice to make sure, but she's adamant: they're desperate for a proposal, and architects and engineers are already jockeying to submit their bids."

Poul's brow furrowed, creasing his forehead as he contemplated their predicament. "Although our hands are full of numerous ventures, I can't ignore this golden opportunity in the transportation sector."

Jonathan nodded emphatically, his eyes alight with determination. "Agreed. So, shall we journey to New York and present our own proposal for a metro station?"

A sly grin spread across Poul's face, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "We're already launching an electric company; why not venture into transportation as well?" He chuckled, the weight of their accomplishments settling upon him. "After all, we've been leaping from one enterprise to another, capitalizing on every profitable industry this alternate nineteenth-century world has to offer."

"Then it's decided," Jonathan declared resolutely, his voice filled with conviction. "I'll have Amelia arrange a meeting with the New York Board of Transportation's council members."

With their course of action determined, Poul and Jonathan wasted no time in preparing for their journey to New York. The following day, they found themselves on board a steam locomotive, the colossal iron beast bound for the bustling metropolis. As the train chugged along the iron tracks, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on rails providing a steady backdrop, the pair revisited their proposal, refining their ideas and discussing the most persuasive ways to present them.

Upon arriving in New York, they were immediately engulfed by the cacophony of sounds and the whirlwind of activity that defined the city. Horse-drawn carriages clattered down cobblestone streets, the hooves of the horses striking the stones with rhythmic precision. Street vendors hawked their wares, their voices merging into a symphony of persuasion, while the masses hurried to and fro, each individual intent on their own pursuits.

As they navigated the congested avenues, the very issue they aimed to solve became abundantly clear: the city's transportation infrastructure was woefully inadequate for the burgeoning population. Poul and Jonathan exchanged knowing glances, their resolve to revolutionize urban transit only strengthened by the chaos they witnessed.

The New York Board of Transportation's headquarters loomed before them, an imposing edifice of brick and mortar that hinted at the gravitas of the institution. Drawing in a deep breath, Poul pushed open the heavy oak doors, their hinges groaning in protest, and the two engineers stepped inside.

The council members, an eclectic mix of esteemed architects, city planners, and transportation experts, awaited them in a grand meeting room adorned with ornate wood paneling and plush velvet curtains. As Poul and Jonathan took their places at the head of the table, the air was thick with anticipation. With a confident nod at his companion, Poul began.

"Good afternoon, gentlemen, and thank you for granting us the opportunity to present a solution that could transform New York's pressing transportation challenges," Poul began, his voice steady and commanding.

As he spoke, the council members of the New York Board of Transportation exchanged knowing glances, murmuring among themselves about Poul's Albian heritage. The discrimination Poul faced in this parallel world was no secret to him, and he was acutely aware of the prejudices that accompanied his origins.

However, the credentials Poul and Jonathan had provided were indisputable. As founders of the rapidly growing Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, Arms Manufacturing Company, Switch & Signal Company, and a foreign branch of the Air Brake Company in the German Empire, they had already made their mark on the industrial landscape. In short, they were a force to be reckoned with and had much to offer.

Though some councilors may have wanted to raise concerns about Poul's background, his accomplishments, and reputation spoke louder.

Poul cleared his throat, signaling the beginning of their proposal. "Gentlemen, we stand before you today to introduce a groundbreaking innovation in transportation: the electric locomotive. We believe that this technology, combined with a carefully designed metro system, will revolutionize urban transit in New York City."

Jonathan unveiled a series of blueprints and diagrams on the table, revealing intricate designs of the electric locomotive and the metro system they envisioned. He continued, "Unlike the steam-powered engines you're familiar with, electric locomotives produce no smoke or steam, making them the ideal choice for an underground metro system. Passengers will no longer suffer the choking fumes that would inevitably accompany steam engines in enclosed spaces."

Poul chimed in, "To create the necessary tunnels for this metro system, we'll employ another groundbreaking innovation of ours: the tunnel boring machine. This advanced piece of equipment will allow us to efficiently excavate the underground passages needed for our electric locomotives to traverse."

Jonathan elaborated on the mechanics of the tunnel boring machine. "This machine is specifically designed to excavate through various types of soil and rock. Its cutting head is equipped with robust teeth that can break through even the toughest geological formations. As the cutting head rotates, it grinds away the material, which is then transported to the surface via a conveyor belt system. Simultaneously, the tunnel walls are reinforced with precast concrete segments, ensuring structural integrity and safety."

Poul then provided a simplified explanation of the electric locomotive's mechanism. "Our electric locomotive utilizes a series of powerful electric motors that receive energy from an overhead catenary system. The catenary is a network of wires suspended above the train tracks, supplying a continuous flow of electricity to the locomotive. This electric power drives the motors, propelling the train forward with remarkable efficiency and minimal pollution."

The council members exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of curiosity, skepticism, and awe. One of the councilors, an older gentleman with a distinguished air, raised his hand. "Gentlemen, this all sounds incredibly impressive, but I must admit, I've never heard of such technology. How can you assure us that this electric locomotive will function as you describe?"