New York Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a comprehensive $77 million initiative aimed at curbing subway crime in the city. As part of this plan, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has initiated the installation of 'spikes' on certain turnstiles to deter fare evaders, who cost the transit agency hundreds of millions of dollars annually in lost revenue.
The newly introduced spike features involve the placement of metal sheets with sharp edges on guardrails between turnstiles to prevent fare beaters from using the gate handrails for leverage when attempting to jump over. However, reports indicate that the spikes are not particularly effective, as evaders can still place their hands on top of the spikes or simply duck underneath the bars. These spikes have been implemented at the Lexington Avenue 59th Street Station in Manhattan, which serves several train lines.
Despite the installation of spikes, fare evasion remains a prevalent issue, especially at stations lacking high turnstiles. Some commuters have criticized the spike installation as 'silly and foolish,' questioning its efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
Furthermore, the MTA currently allocates approximately $1 million per month on private unarmed security guards to deter fare evasion. However, these guards lack the authority to apprehend individuals who evade payment.
Governor Hochul's strategy to combat fare evasion includes the installation of modern high-rise turnstiles at 40 stations. It remains unclear whether the spike deployment at the 59th Street Station is part of this broader plan.
Hochul emphasized that fare evasion results in a staggering $700 million annual revenue loss for the MTA, with a significant portion attributed to the subway system. To address safety concerns and criminal activities on the transit system, the governor announced the deployment of an additional 750 police officers, with 300 assigned to overnight train patrols.
Moreover, Hochul highlighted plans to install new subway edge barriers at over 100 stations by 2025 to prevent accidents and enhance passenger safety. Additionally, funding will be allocated for the installation of LED lighting in all subway stations to improve visibility.
The governor also revealed intentions to expand a 24/7 'Welcome Center' near end-of-line stations to provide support for homeless individuals, underscoring the administration's commitment to enhancing safety and security across the subway system.
