The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has installed protective platform edge barriers at 56 subway stations. 

Halfway through 2025, the MTA is on track to install barriers at more than 100 subway stations by the end of the year. This directive is part of a larger set of initiatives Gov. Kathy Hochul announced in her State of the State address to protect subway riders and workers. 

The MTA’s Subway Safety Measures

The MTA continues to upgrade station lighting with brighter, safer LED bulbs. LEDs are now installed in 342 stations, with all 472 subway stations scheduled to be upgraded by the end of the year. Safety in the subway system continues to improve with overall major crimes dropping by 3% from the same period last year and by almost 10% when compared to pre-pandemic levels. 

“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re making investments to ensure that our system not only is safe but — equally important — feels safe to riders. With new platform barriers, MTA’s thousands of new security cameras, increased deployments from the NYPD, and 10 percent less crime before COVID, it’s no wonder customer satisfaction has risen dramatically this year,” said MTA Chair/CEO Janno Lieber. 

Rider Feedback

Recent customer surveys have shown that 59% of riders wanted the installation of protective platform barriers throughout the system — including 88% of riders over the age of 65, according to the MTA. 

A majority of respondents have also noted that they believe the presence of platform barriers in the station makes them feel safer and believe the barriers will protect against falls onto the tracks. Platform barriers are built and installed using in-house New York City Transit (NYCT) labor with in-house machinery in a NYCT facility, resulting in lower costs and a faster installation timeline. 

The selection of stations for the installation process prioritizes feasibility, including stations with standard car-stopping positions. Among these train lines, stations with higher ridership levels and island platforms are prioritized, the MTA said.