MTA enforces strict measures against fare evasion at a notorious evasion-prone spot in Queens.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has taken steps to combat fare evasion at the 61st Street-Woodside subway station, a crucial transit hub in Queens. This action is part of the MTA's broader initiative to address fare evasion throughout the city.
Recent modifications at the station include the installation of spiked metal barriers and new metal "half moon" sleeves on turnstile arms, making it more difficult for individuals to evade the fare. Similar changes have been implemented at stations such as Lexington Avenue-59th Street and Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall/Chambers Street in Manhattan this year.
The MTA's efforts to thwart fare evasion have shown promising results, with a 36% reduction in subway fare evasion, according to Janno Lieber, MTA chair and CEO. The authority also plans to install modern fare gates in 20 stations this year to further combat the issue.
However, it appears that not all efforts have been successful. Our platform photographer observed several public transit users jumping the sleeved barriers with relative ease at Brooklyn Bridge-City/Chambers Street on Feb. 16.
The MTA has lost approximately $700 million each year in unpaid fares and tolls, making the issue of fare evasion a significant concern. To address this, the MTA held three public hearings in August about the proposed fare changes and accepts public comments at various locations through Sept. 12. The schedule for public comments can be found at mta.info.
During an Aug. 30 visit to the station, no one was observed jumping the turnstiles, with two uniformed NYPD officers stationed there. However, our platform observed at least five people jumping over or crawling under the turnstile to evade the fare after the officers left for platform patrol.
In addition to the fare increase for NYC trains and buses to $3, expected in January, and a 25-cent fare hike for express buses, the MTA is hopeful that these measures will help reduce fare evasion and generate much-needed revenue.
Our platform has reached out to the MTA for comment on the changes to the station and is awaiting a response.
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