MTA Installs Spikes and Paddles to Deter NYC Subway Fare Evasion
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is implementing measures to combat fare evasion in New York City subways. The agency plans to install jagged metal partitions and plastic paddles on turnstiles across the system.
Details of the Installation
As part of this initiative, barriers have already been placed at 327 subway stations, with an additional 129 stations set to receive them by the end of next month.
Investment and Impact
The MTA is investing $7.3 million in these new additions, which is minor compared to the $1.1 billion allocated for redesigned fare gates at 150 stations under a five-year construction plan.
- Current fare evasion has reportedly decreased by 60% since similar designs were previously implemented.
- NYC Transit President Demetrius Chrichlow noted the effectiveness of these modifications despite public perceptions of their appearance.
Financial Implications
Fare evasion impacts the MTA’s budget significantly. This fiscal year, the authority anticipates losing approximately $400 million due to fare evasion, up from $285 million in 2022.
Future Initiatives
In addition to the spikes and paddles, the MTA is set to pilot fare gates from four different companies at 20 stations. These gates feature double doors and have been successfully employed in various cities worldwide to curb fare evasion.
The MTA’s ongoing efforts aim to enhance the integrity of the subway system and ensure fair contributions from all riders.
