Fare evasion in the New York City subway system has been a growing problem, costing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) nearly $500 million annually. With losses mounting and previous deterrents failing to yield substantial results, the MTA has introduced a new anti-fare evasion measure—installing metal shields on subway turnstiles.
This new initiative aims to make it more difficult for riders to jump over turnstiles, one of the most common fare evasion methods. The shields have been installed at the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall/Chambers Street subway station, with the potential for expansion depending on its success.
However, many New Yorkers remain skeptical about the effectiveness of this measure, with some arguing that it’s just another temporary fix rather than a long-term solution. Let’s explore this new strategy, how commuters are reacting, and whether this move will actually curb fare evasion in NYC.
What Are the MTA’s Metal Shields?
The metal shields are four-inch extensions placed on top of existing subway turnstiles. They are designed to make it harder for fare evaders to jump over by increasing the height of the turnstile.
How Do They Work?
- The shields extend the top portion of the turnstiles, making it more awkward and difficult for someone to leap over.
- The design utilizes the existing turnstile structure, meaning it’s a low-cost solution compared to replacing entire turnstile units.
- By making small modifications, the MTA hopes to reduce fare evasion without needing major infrastructure changes.
However, many commuters and transit experts are questioning whether this minor modification will be enough to deter persistent fare evaders.
Mixed Reactions From Commuters
The public response to the metal shields has been divided. Some support the effort, acknowledging that it’s a step in the right direction. Others criticize it as an ineffective and cheap attempt to solve a much bigger issue.
What Riders Are Saying
- Some commuters appreciate the effort. “At least they’re trying something,” one rider noted. “Fare evasion is out of control, and we need to do something about it.”
- Others think it’s just a band-aid solution. “I do understand why they did it that way because it’s probably inexpensive for them,” a rider said. “It’s just adding a small piece instead of changing the entire design.”
- Many believe it won’t work. Reports have already surfaced of people still jumping over the turnstiles, crawling under, or finding other ways to evade paying their fare.
These reactions highlight the ongoing struggle between the MTA and persistent fare evaders, who seem to always find a way around new deterrents.
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The Cost of Fare Evasion in NYC
Fare evasion isn’t just about lost ticket sales—it’s a major financial issue affecting public transportation quality and budget allocation.
How Much Does Fare Evasion Cost the MTA?
- In 2023, the MTA estimated that fare evasion led to $690 million in lost revenue across the subway and bus systems.
- Subway fare evasion alone accounted for nearly $500 million in losses.
- These losses impact funding for system maintenance, upgrades, and transit workers’ salaries.
With such high stakes, the MTA is under pressure to implement strategies that successfully curb fare evasion without alienating paying riders.
Past Fare Evasion Prevention Efforts
The MTA has tried multiple solutions to stop fare evasion in recent years. Unfortunately, many of them have failed to significantly reduce the problem.
1. Spiked Barriers on Turnstiles
- In January 2025, the MTA installed spiked barriers at the 59th Street/Lexington Avenue station.
- These barriers featured sharp spikes designed to make jumping over turnstiles painful.
- However, people quickly found ways to bypass them by wearing thick clothing or using objects to cover the spikes.
2. Increased Fines and Policing
- The MTA increased fines for fare evasion to deter offenders.
- More police officers and MTA workers were stationed at subway entrances.
- However, many argue that over-policing disproportionately affects low-income communities while failing to stop repeat offenders.
3. Taller Turnstiles and Exit Gates
- The MTA tested taller turnstiles in some subway stations.
- They also began locking emergency exit gates—which many fare evaders use to enter for free.
- However, this caused congestion issues, especially during rush hours.
While each measure has had some impact, none have completely solved the problem—leading to yet another attempt with the new metal shields.
Will the Metal Shields Actually Work?
The big question remains: Will these shields significantly reduce fare evasion, or are they just another failed experiment?
Potential Advantages
✅ Affordable Solution: Unlike replacing entire turnstile systems, adding metal shields is a low-cost way to make fare evasion harder.
✅ Slows Down Evaders: The shields might make it more difficult for casual fare evaders to jump over.
✅ A Step in the Right Direction: Even if not a perfect solution, it signals that the MTA is actively trying to reduce fare evasion.
Potential Drawbacks
❌ Won’t Stop Determined Evaders: Many fare evaders will still find ways to bypass the shields.
❌ Doesn’t Address Root Causes: Fare evasion is often linked to economic hardship—this solution doesn’t help those who can’t afford transit fares.
❌ Could Lead to More Damage: If riders become more desperate, they might break turnstiles or cause damage to evade fares.
Ultimately, only time will tell whether this latest effort will prove effective or just be another short-term fix.
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A Better Approach to Fare Evasion?
Instead of only adding physical barriers, a more comprehensive approach could include:
- Better Community Engagement: Addressing economic struggles that cause fare evasion.
- Improved Transit Policies: Considering fare reductions or free transit programs for low-income riders.
- Advanced Technology: Implementing more sophisticated tap-in/tap-out systems to track unpaid fares.
While metal shields might reduce some fare evasion, a long-term solution will require a mix of policy changes, technology upgrades, and community support.
Conclusion: Another Temporary Fix or a Real Solution?
The MTA’s installation of metal shields on turnstiles is yet another attempt to curb the fare evasion crisis in NYC. While it’s a low-cost measure, many are doubtful that it will lead to a significant reduction in lost revenue.
If the MTA wants real results, it may need to rethink its entire strategy, considering both enforcement and economic factors that drive fare evasion.
For now, though, fare evaders continue to find ways around every barrier, leaving the effectiveness of this latest attempt uncertain.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where were they installed?
At the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall/Chambers Street subway station.
2. Do they actually stop fare evasion?
Somewhat, but many still find ways around them.
3. How much money does the MTA lose from fare evasion?
Nearly $500 million annually from subway evasion alone.
4. Are there better solutions?
A mix of technology, enforcement, and community programs could work better.
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