Empire State Review Team 
New York City, November 18, 2024 — The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) launched new real-time safety features across the city’s subway system today, part of a $1.5 billion modernization initiative. The upgrades include platform screen doors, enhanced surveillance cameras, and AI-powered crowd monitoring systems.
The pilot program began at 15 high-traffic stations, including Times Square and Grand Central. “These changes represent a new era of safety and efficiency for the subway system,” said MTA Chair Janno Lieber. The platform screen doors aim to prevent track-related incidents, while the AI systems provide real-time data to improve crowd management and emergency response.
Commuters welcomed the upgrades, particularly the safety doors, which have long been advocated by transit groups. “This is a much-needed improvement,” said Brooklyn resident James Lee. “It’s good to see the MTA prioritizing safety.”
Some concerns were raised about potential delays during installation and the need for further accessibility improvements. MTA officials assured the public that disruptions would be minimal and pledged additional upgrades to elevators and ramps for disabled riders.
The enhancements are part of the MTA’s larger vision for a safer, more modern subway system by 2030. If successful, the pilot program will expand citywide, with the goal of making the subway system one of the safest in the world.
