3rd Ave. El (film)

3rd Ave. El is a 1955 American short documentary film directed by Carson Davidson. The film captures the final days of the Third Avenue Elevated Railway (the "El") in Manhattan, New York City. The Third Avenue El, a vital piece of New York City's transportation infrastructure for decades, was being dismantled section by section, a process completed in October 1955.

The film primarily consists of street-level footage of the El's structure and passing trains, showcasing the impact of the elevated railway on the surrounding urban environment. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of New Yorkers living and working along Third Avenue at the time, capturing the sights and sounds associated with this soon-to-be-vanished landmark. The film is notable for its historical significance, serving as a visual record of a bygone era of New York City history and documenting a significant change in the city's landscape and transportation system. It is often studied for its insights into urban planning, transportation history, and the social impact of infrastructure changes. The film is known for its simple yet evocative cinematography and serves as a nostalgic look at a rapidly changing city.