Empire State Review Team 
New York City, July 17, 2024 — The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) began installing state-of-the-art subway turnstiles across the city today in a bid to curb fare evasion, which cost the system an estimated $700 million last year. The new turnstiles feature facial recognition technology, real-time monitoring, and enhanced durability to prevent bypassing.
The pilot program, which will start with 10 stations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, is expected to expand citywide by 2025. “This is a significant investment in our transit system’s future,” said MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. “We’re committed to making the subway safe, efficient, and fair for everyone.”
While the MTA highlighted the system’s potential to recover lost revenue, privacy advocates raised concerns about the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces. “We need transparency and safeguards to ensure this doesn’t infringe on civil liberties,” said ACLU spokesperson Tara Mills.
Commuters offered mixed reactions to the new turnstiles. Some applauded the effort to modernize the subway, while others worried about delays or technical glitches. “It’s a good idea if it works,” said Brooklyn resident David Cho. “But if it slows us down, it’ll just cause more problems.”
The MTA assured the public that all data collected would be securely stored and used solely for fare enforcement. The success of the program will likely influence similar efforts in other major cities grappling with transit revenue losses.
37
