MTA announces setbacks with OMNY system and plans to address crime on transit system

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) officials recently announced that the agency’s plans to fully implement the tap-and-go OMNY payment system is running 15 months behind schedule and millions of dollars over budget.

The agency is half-way completed with implementation of the payment system but has run into complications due to the ongoing pandemic and difficulties coordinating with OMNY’s contractor. When completed, the OMNY system will be available for commuters on all subways, trains and buses.

The entire project is expected to cost $772 million, an increase from the MTA’s original $573 million contract with Cubic Corporation. Final costs of the project are still yet to be negotiated.

As of Jan. 21, the OMNY system has been available in all city subway stations and buses. Completion of all elements of the project, including OMNY card vending machines and expansion of the system to Metro North and Long Island Rail Road trains, is expected to be completed by 2024.

MTA officials reported that despite setbacks, a quarter of all riders use the OMNY system to pay for their trips. 

The agency is also facing growing concerns over crime in the city’s subways, fueled by recent attacks taking place on subway platforms. MTA head Janno Lieber announced on Monday that the agency will communicate daily with the New York Police Department (NYPD) regarding how to address the recent increase in violent incidents.

Mayor Eric Adams also announced that one thousand police officers will be placed in the city’s subway system, specifically to walk through subway cars and interact with commuters rather than observing from the station’s platforms. 

In a recent statement, Lieber emphasized the importance of ensuring commuter’s safety. 

“We have to allow people to get back to their normal lives. And if they’re scared to travel on mass transit, they can’t. It’s that simple,” said Lieber.

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