In this chapter, the focus shifts to a pivotal period in the 1930s, when Robert Moses’ relationship with political power began to change dramatically. At first, Moses saw power mainly as a means to realize his ambitious plans for public works. However, by 1936, his priorities had started to shift. His attempt to take control of the New York City Tunnel Authority, for example, revealed that he was now seeking power for its own sake, not just as a way to build parks or roads. When he was denied authority over the tunnel project, Moses didn’t simply walk away. Instead, he tried to undermine the project through legislative maneuvering, even though he actually supported its goals. This marked a turning point, as Moses became more focused on consolidating his own influence.
As the Great Depression wore on, Moses became increasingly aggressive in his pursuit of control over new public works and housing projects. Although he had previously shown little interest in housing for the poor, the influx of federal and state funding changed his outlook. Sensing an opportunity, he secretly devised a plan to take over the City Housing Authority and launch a massive slum clearance initiative. Rather than working through official channels, Moses tried to sidestep Mayor La Guardia by presenting his plan directly to influential citizens and broadcasting it on the city’s radio station. La Guardia, however, was quick to respond. He cut off the broadcast and made sure Moses was kept out of any leadership roles in housing.
The rivalry between the two men only grew from there. La Guardia went out of his way to exclude Moses from major housing projects, overseeing the construction of thousands of apartments without his involvement. This sidelining frustrated Moses and led him to criticize the mayor publicly, but La Guardia stood firm. He recognized that Moses’ ambitions were no longer limited to parks and infrastructure. Determined to keep Moses in check, La Guardia began slashing budgets and keeping a closer eye on his projects. Yet by this point, Moses had started to build his own base of power through independent public authorities, making him harder to control.
Ultimately, the chapter paints a vivid picture of the escalating battle between Moses’ relentless quest for power and La Guardia’s determination to maintain democratic oversight of the city’s future. The tension between their competing visions would shape New York for years to come.