Brooklyn commuters weigh pros and cons of new fare gates
The new gates, which feature glass doors, are the MTA’s newest tools in the fight against fare evasion. However, commuters are conflicted on what the impact would be.
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New fare gates have been installed at several subway stations across Brooklyn, including the Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center station.
The new gates, which feature glass doors, are the MTA’s newest tools in the fight against fare evasion. However, commuters are conflicted on what the impact would be.
“It’s just annoying,” said one commuter. “It’s not going to stop anyone from evading the fare.”
The fare gates are one of three pilot designs being tested at 20 stations in the city. The plan is to eventually install a final design at 150 stations in 2026.
While the MTA says these gates will help reduce fare evasion – for riders, the question now is whether tougher gates will also mean better train service.
“This is where the money's going to?” questioned another commuter. “…Work on the trains and security. It may dilute some people, but you can crawl underneath if people really want to. Or just wait until someone opens and walk through.
Commuters say new fare gates, plus other changes from the MTA — like no more MetroCards, are happening all too quickly.
“I guess it’s helpful,” said Nancy. “But I think with the fare raises, it’s just a lot going on at once. I know they're trying to prevent people from trying to like hop the fare, but I feel like it's just going to cause more frustration.”
