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MTA Debuts AI-Enabled Plexiglass Fare Gates at Two Stations in Pilot to Curb Evasion

The trial showcases sensor‑equipped plexiglass gates ahead of a decision on a $1.2 billion systemwide rollout.

Overview

  • New gates went live at Broadway–Lafayette in Manhattan and Third Ave–138th St. in the South Bronx, with about 20 stations to follow in the coming days.
  • Panels open after payment and trigger loud alarms on unpaid entry, using sensors and AI to distinguish people, luggage and children under 40 inches.
  • The MTA says the design eases access for riders using wheelchairs and strollers, and the long‑term plan targets roughly 150 stations.
  • Conduent built the pilot arrays now in use, with STraffic and Cubic also competing for the contract, and a vendor decision expected next year.
  • In a parallel effort, turnstile sleeves and vertical fins have been installed at 327 stations with $7.3 million budgeted to finish most, while a New York Post opinion piece and social‑media videos question their effectiveness as officials report evasion has declined this year.