Breaking News: $19 Billion MTA Repair Program Proposed

A sweeping new subway improvement plan is on the table in New York City. The "Fast Forward" plan will modernize the subway's signal system, improve wheelchair accessibility, and "restructure the inner workings of the department."

1 minute read

May 23, 2018, 11:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


New York Subway

Francesco Ferrarini / Shutterstock

"A sweeping proposal to overhaul New York City’s subway and improve the broader transit system is expected to cost more than $19 billion, " reports Emma G. Fitzsimmons.

The proposal expands on the emergency repair plan unveiled last summer (although to questionable effect), according to Fitzsimmons, who is reporting information shared by two people briefed on the proposal this week.

New York City Transit Authority President Andy Byford is spearheading the proposal. "His plan will focus on speeding up the rollout of a new signal system to replace the subway’s current antiquated equipment," reports Fitzsimmons.

Additional coverage of the proposal is available from Jim Dwyer, also reporting for the New York Times, and Vincent Barone, reporting for amNewYork.

Byford's actions since taking the helm of the New York City Transit Authority at the beginning of 2018 include an ambitious plan to resurrect the city's struggling bus system.  

Tuesday, May 22, 2018 in The New York Times

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