MTA to tackle subway action plan

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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Metropolitan Transportation Authority / Patrick Cashin

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has developed a two-phase action plan to improve its system and lay a foundation for a more modern subway.

MTA Chairman Joseph Lhota unveiled the NYC Subway Action Plan July 25 following a push from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo that called for a customer-first plan. MTA says the plan will bring solutions to multiple system stresses, such as a record volume of customers, aging infrastructure and lack of capital expenditure necessary to grow the system. The first phase will deal with signals, track and power, which are key drivers in 79 percent of the systems major incidents, while the second phase will focus on modernization.

MTA Chairman Joseph Lhota said, “New Yorkers are rightfully frustrated with the current state of the subways, and their demands for better service have been heard. We are committed to earning back their trust by implementing solutions that will enhance the customer experience in the short- and long-term. The NYC Subway Action Plan marks the beginning of a new chapter for the MTA and provides an opportunity to stabilize and improve the system and lay the foundation for modernization. As we work to build a better system, customers can expect to see progress in ways both big and small.”

MTA will begin with the first phase of the action plan immediately and aims to deliver improvements within one year. In addition to signals, track and power systems, Phase One will address water-related damage and corrosion, track fires, car breakdowns, police activity and station issues. MTA says Phase One will focus on a better customer experience through increased reliability and capacity, enhanced stations and safety, and clear and accurate communication.

More information on Phase Two will be detailed in the near future, but MTA says it will address long-term, system-wide improvements and incorporate innovations developed from the MTA Genius Transit Challenge.

More information on the NYC Subway Action Plan is available at MTAMovingForward.com.

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