Critics argue that the MTA’s recent efforts to combat fare evasion have gone off the rails.
The agency is expanding a program that locks subway emergency gates for 15 seconds after they’re opened, aiming to prevent fare dodgers from slipping in without paying.
Yet, despite this pilot initiative, it seems some riders have found ways to get the doors open for those trying to avoid fares. The Metropolitan Transportation Agency announced it will roll out this program to at least 150 stations this year.
Some advocates believe this move is reckless, potentially creating chaos during emergencies like fires or shootings, and also criticized how it affects people with disabilities.
“In a panic situation, needing to exit quickly, those 15 seconds could be crucial,” said Sharon McLennonweir, executive director of the New York Independence Center for Disabilities.
Dustin Jones, a wheelchair advocate who previously sued the MTA over accessibility concerns, labeled the program as “very dangerous.” He emphasized that for someone with a disability, every second counts in an emergency.
The news about the expanded fare evasion measures follows a Blue Ribbon Panel report indicating the MTA is facing a “crisis level” of fare avoidance.
The report stated, “Every dollar lost to fare evasion threatens the financial stability of the MTA, undermines reliable transportation for New Yorkers, and increases the need for alternative revenue sources, including fare hikes.”
The MTA has not responded to multiple questions about what riders should do in an actual emergency when facing a wait due to the safety gate.
However, it has been reported that the agency follows all fire codes in deploying these measures.
The next set of emergency gates is set to be installed later this year at several stations, including 34 St-Penn Station and Canal St. Currently, over 70 stations have been equipped with these gates, which have reportedly reduced fare evasion by about 40% and system-wide fare losses by 10%.
Yet, there’s skepticism among some riders about whether these measures are worth the risk.
“I think that’s a bad idea,” remarked 68-year-old Bernice Parks. “Imagine if there’s a fire and smoke.”
Another Williamsburg resident, who preferred to remain unnamed, said that while fare dodging is frustrating, putting lives at risk isn’t an acceptable trade-off.
Similarly, Tony Morris, 57, from Williamsburg, suggested the measures might not effectively deter kids from jumping turnstiles, speculating maybe the MTA could finally see some financial recovery.
Sol Lipschutz, 53, felt that while the initiative might not pose significant risks, he would still be concerned in an emergency.
Mandelstam, 40, another local, expressed approval of the program, noting he was tired of seeing people cheat the fare while paying customers followed the rules.
The MTA has been taking various steps to address fare evasion across the subway system. More than 200 stations are under scrutiny, with gate guards deployed, modified turnstile arms, and specialized teams focused on specific routes.
As a result, the MTA claimed fare evasion dropped by 26% in the latter half of 2024, coinciding with an increase in fare-related subpoenas issued by the NYPD.
Expect more initiatives later this year, including adjustments to remaining turnstiles and the introduction of “wide aisle” gates at 20 city stations.
The fare gates, slated for installation this fall, are being tested by four different vendors. By 2029, at least 150 stations are anticipated to have them.
Pilot locations include major hubs like Atlantic AV-Barclays Center and 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal.
“Fare evasion jeopardizes the entire transit system and the essential services it provides to our community,” stated New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow, emphasizing that the team has made significant progress in the fight against fare evasion and is committed to ensuring compliance and fairness for all riders.
