New York City is taking significant steps to enhance subway platform safety through structural improvements and increased police presence. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the need for subway gates during a recent media availability, stating that such measures could help prevent accidents on platforms. He described the proposal as “long overdue,” especially in high-volume areas like Grand Central Station, where the flow of passengers increases the risk of accidents (Source: https://youtu.be/GimX8v2xoMk&t=2259).
In addition to architectural changes, the city plans to deploy more than 200 officers to subway trains and platforms, particularly in the 50 stations with the highest crime rates. This initiative aims to address public perception concerns about safety, despite overall crime rates having decreased. The mayor emphasized that 78% of transit crime occurs on trains and platforms, underscoring the necessity of police presence in those areas (Source: https://youtu.be/z666Bz_wPCw&t=2146).
Adams acknowledged that while crime numbers are down, many commuters still feel unsafe in the subway system. He reiterated the importance of balancing actual crime statistics with public perception, indicating that ongoing efforts will target high-risk areas and enhance the visibility of law enforcement (Source: https://youtu.be/z666Bz_wPCw&t=2039).
The call for structural improvements like platform gates aligns with ongoing discussions in Albany about subway safety legislation. The mayor noted the importance of addressing mental health issues among those experiencing homelessness, which could further contribute to enhancing safety in the transit system (Source: https://youtu.be/GimX8v2xoMk&t=2223).
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