Governor Andrew M. Cuomo unveiled on December 19, 2016, the largest permanent public art installation in New York State history in conjunction with the grand opening of Phase I of the Second Avenue Subway, which marks the city’s first major expansion project in more than 50 years. The "underground museum" features works by various artists, including large-scale portraits by Chuck Close of cultural figures such as Philip Glass, Lou Reed, Kara Walker and Cindy Sherman.
New York City's recently unveiled state-of-the-art Second Avenue Subway stations incorporate an awe-inspiring installation of public art, which creates a new museum underground and celebrates work of legendary artists, including photo-based portrait paintings by Chuck Close.
Riders can now buy weekly, monthly, and visitor passes with just a few taps on their mobile devices. During the 30-day beta testing period, users will receive one free upgrade for any fare purchase.
The effort by the transit agency comes on the heels of September’s accident, which killed one person standing on a platform and injured more than 100 others. It was later revealed the engineer in that crash suffered from sleep apnea, a fatigue-inducing disorder.
Funds will be distributed through the United Way to local organizations in need.