Governor Hochul Announces MTA Solicitation for Secure, Accessible and Modern Fare Gates for the Future of the Subway System

 

Next Generation Fare Gates Aim to Improve Station Accessibility and Combat Fare Evasion

Invitation to Pre-Qualify Follows Upgrade of Entire Fare Array with Modern Fare Gates at Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport Station

View Request for Information Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is seeking to pre-qualify vendors of secure, accessible, and modern fare gates to be deployed in the New York City subway system. The MTA seeks to replace its legacy fare arrays and strategically deploy next generation fare gates that better align with the Authority’s goals of promoting fare compliance and preventing fare evasion, enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities and people utilizing strollers, and improving the overall customer experience. The Request for Information is the first phase of a multi-step procurement process to modernize the fare gates.

“The safety of all New Yorkers is my top priority,” Governor Hochul said. “These new fare gates will improve the safety and accessibility of the Subway system, while ensuring riders have an easier time entering and exiting stations.”

Fare evasion has reached crisis levels in the transit system, with a loss of $285 million in revenue due to subway fare evasion in 2022 alone. A key recommendation from the MTA’s Blue-Ribbon Panel report on fare evasion was modernizing fare gates in the subway. In November, the MTA replaced an entire fare array at the Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport station with more secure and accessible wide-aisle fare gates following a pilot at Atlantic Av-Barclays Center subway station in March 2023 and Sutphin-Archer in April 2023.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Reimagining the fare array is a common-sense solution to the uptick in fare evasion in the subway system. There’s a reason it was one of the best received recommendations delivered by the Blue-Ribbon Panel. Since the release of the Panel’s report, the MTA has taken a range of actions against fare evasion including installation of prototype wide-aisle fare gates at two stations. This RFI will help us take things to the next level, so we can make sure every person entering the system pays their share.”

Other MTA Measures Taken to Deter Fare Evasion to Date

Modernizing the fare array in subway stations is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by MTA agencies since the release of the Blue-Ribbon Panel report in May 2023. Since then, MTA agencies have taken the following actions:

• Modified 777 turnstiles at 95 fare arrays in 42 stations to prevent customers from back-cocking.
• Deployed 432 unarmed gate guards and re-keyed all 1,620 emergency exit access key locks.
• Launched a pilot to delay egress on emergency exit gates to discourage opportunistic evasion.
• Piloting fins on turnstiles to deter riders from attempting to jump the turnstiles.
• Deployed NYC Transit EAGLE teams, with support from the NYPD, to local and Select Bus Service (SBS) bus stop hubs with high rates of fare evasion.
• Over the past three months, with targeted enforcement at three hubs, EAGLE teams have had over 30,000 customer contacts that include 14,240 customers assisted with fare payment, 4,017 verbal warnings and 6,670 evasion summonses.
• Collaborated with New York City on Fair Fares outreach with enhanced digital messaging and additional enrollment opportunities at Transit Talk events.
• Formed partnerships between the Metro-North Railroad and Labor members to focus on increasing conductor fare collection using on-board video technology to review and correct performance.
• Launched a pre-boarding inspection pilot program on Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North at their major Midtown hubs, Grand Central and Penn Station. Crews check tickets before customers board to discourage delayed e-tickets activation and boarding without a ticket.
• So far both railroads have held two trial runs, reaching over 7,000 customers which confirmed a significant number of customers are boarding without pre-purchased or activated e-tickets.
• The MTA Police Department has recorded a 210 percent increase in fare evasion arrests and 104 percent increase in fare evasion summonses between 2022 and 2023, thanks to enhanced train patrols and patrolling subway stations located at commuter railroad hubs.
• MTA Bridges and Tunnels has further enhanced their crackdown efforts on scofflaws with the deployment of Portable License Plate Readers, which have increased license plate reads.
• Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 15, 2023, Bridge and Tunnel officers have intercepted 2,718 vehicles – a 50 percent increase from the same time in 2022 and surpassed the total of 1,880 vehicles that were interdicted in all of 2022. Bridge and Tunnel officers have also issued 2,933 summonses for covered or obstructed license plates since the beginning of the year.
• The MTA plans to coordinate with the NYPD for enhanced toll evasion enforcement for congestion pricing.

CONSUMER ALERT: NYS DIVISION OF CONSUMER PROTECTION PROVIDES TIPS TO HELP CONSUMERS NAVIGATE RETURN AND REFUND POLICIES

 

Discover What to Look for When Reviewing Return and Refund Policies

Laws Protect Consumers So They Can Make Informed Decisions During Holiday Shopping

Secretary Rodriguez: “The last thing you want is to purchase an item and realize you can’t return it due to a missing receipt or it is outside of the return window, so I urge New Yorkers to follow these tips to ensure you can get your money back if you change your mind about a purchase.”

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for “Tuesday’s Tips” – Practical Tips to Educate and Empower New York Consumers on a Variety of Topics

For this week’s “Tuesday’s Tips”, the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminds shoppers of New York State laws that protect consumers so they can make informed decisions about holiday returns. To avoid surprises, DCP recommends that consumers carefully review and understand what to look for when reviewing return and refund policies.

 

“Consumer spending during this holiday season hit an all-time high, which could mean the number of returns made will be as well,” said New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “The last thing you want is to purchase an item and realize you can’t return it due to a missing receipt or it is outside of the return window, so I urge New Yorkers to follow these tips to ensure you can get your money back if you change your mind about a purchase.” 

Around the holidays, gift givers and receivers often change their minds. This year’s holiday weekend from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday, set record levels for consumer spending which indicates shopping is showing no signs of slowing down according to the National Retail Federation. The increase can lead to more refunds and returns this holiday season.  To help navigate the busy shopping season, DCP offers the following tips:

• Pay Attention to Return Policies: New York State law requires that retailers post their return and refund policies clearly to inform consumers before the transaction is completed. Retailers must provide a written copy of the store’s return policy when requested.

New York State Law does not require retailers to accept returns, however, they must post a conspicuous notice visible to consumers before the point of sale advising that no returns will be accepted.

If the retailer does not post a return policy, the law requires the retailer to accept returns of unused, undamaged merchandise within 30 days of the purchase date. The returned item must include a proof of purchase and the refund must be in the form of cash or credit based on the customer’s preference.

• Understand the Refund Terms: For retailers that allow returns, New York State law does not require refunds to be given in any specific manner. However, it does require the form of the refund - cash, credit, or exchange - be clearly disclosed in advance of purchase. Retailers must also disclose any fees associated with the return. If no fee is listed, customers should inquire whether the store imposes a re-stocking fee for returned merchandise and determine prior to purchase if the item can be returned for a refund or only store credit.
• Retain Any Proofs of Purchase: Consumers should hold on to receipts in the event a product needs to be returned. If purchasing gifts, ask if a gift receipt is available. 

Consumers having difficulty obtaining a refund are encouraged to file a complaint with the New York State Division of Consumer Protection.

 

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

 

For more consumer protection tips, follow the Division on social media at Twitter: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: www.facebook.com/nysconsumer.

Permits Filed For 24 Bruckner Boulevard In Port Morris, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a 12-story commercial building at 24 Bruckner Boulevard in Port Morris, The Bronx. Located between Lincoln Avenue and Alexander Avenue, the lot is near the 3rd Avenue-138th Street subway station, serviced by the 6 train. Jorge Madruga of YYY 62nd Street LLC is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 124-foot-tall development will yield 144,286 square feet designated for commercial space. The concrete-based structure will also have a cellar, a 40-foot-long rear yard, 47 enclosed parking spaces, and 50 bicycle parking spaces.

Aufgang Architects is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits have not been filed yet. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

Public Advocate WILLIAMS' STATEMENT ON THE CELEBRATION OF KWANZAA

"Habari Gani? I send peace, blessings, love and light to everyone who begins celebrating Kwanzaa today. Over the next week, we uplift African American culture and heritage, rooted in the seven principles of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These values are not confined to the week – we should emulate them all year.

"During Kwanzaa, we learn not only from the seven principles, but from the example of our ancestors, whose legacy we carry forth. With the strength that emanates from our many blessings, and the model of those who have come before, we know that like them, we will come through challenges and obstacles, and make a better world for all who come after.

"In the spirit of Umoja, united in spirit, let us pursue justice with purpose, perseverance, and resolve." 

Statement from Speaker Adams on the Conversion of JFK Hilton Hotel into ‘Baisley Pond Park Residences’ Affordable Housing Development

 

This week, the City announced a deal with Slate Property Group and RiseBoro Community Partnership to convert the former JFK Hilton Hotel in her Council District into the Baisley Pond Park Residences, which will provide 318 units of permanently affordable housing for low-income and formerly homeless New Yorkers. Governor Hochul contributed $48 million in state funding for the $167 million project. This marks the first hotel conversion project through the state’s Housing Our Neighbors with Dignity Act (HONDA) program. In response, Speaker Adrienne Adams released the following statement:

“To ease our city’s growing housing and affordability crisis, it is imperative that we utilize every tool at our disposal to build and preserve housing, with a focus on maximizing affordability. With the historic conversion of the JFK Hilton Hotel into 318 units of permanently affordable housing for low-income and formerly homeless New Yorkers, our city is taking a critical step forward to ensure even more of our neighbors have access to the stability and support they need. The Baisley Pond Park Residences represents what can be achieved when our city and state governments work together with a shared goal of housing New Yorkers. While this is the first hotel conversion project facilitated by the Housing Our Neighbors with Dignity Act (HONDA) program, I am hopeful that it will not be the last. I thank Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, Slate Property Group, RiseBoro Community Partnership, and all of the stakeholders whose partnership paved the way for this groundbreaking development in our Southeast Queens community.”

Las Vegas-Area Accountant Sentenced to Prison for Bribery and Tax Fraud

 

A Nevada man was sentenced Wednesday to 13 months in prison for his role in separate bribery and tax fraud conspiracies.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Dustin M. Lewis, of Henderson, was a certified public accountant employed by Las Vegas-based accounting firm L.L. Bradford & Company. Beginning in February 2015 through about February 2016, Lewis conspired with and paid a public official with the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) more than $150,000 in bribes and kickbacks. In exchange for those payments, Lewis’ co-conspirator, who was a member of a selection committee responsible for awarding government contracts to perform auditing services for USBR programs, steered an audit contract to L.L. Bradford.

Lewis and his co-conspirator also conspired to file a false 2013 corporate tax return and other tax forms on behalf of six business entities that collectively claimed over $11 million in fraudulent business deductions. Lewis’ conduct caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $1.5 million.             

In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon for the District of Nevada ordered Lewis to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $704,002 in restitution. The court also imposed a criminal forfeiture money judgment against Lewis in the amount of $704,002.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada made the announcement.

IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI and the U.S. Department of Interior’s Office of Inspector General investigated the case.

Governor Hochul Signs the LLC Transparency Act

 

Legislation S.995B/A.3484 Creates an LLC Ownership Database for Government and Law Enforcement Use

Governor Secured Compromise to Crack Down on Unlawful Conduct While Protecting Privacy

Governor Hochul today signed the LLC Transparency Act, which will create a database of the beneficial owners of Limited Liability Corporations that is accessible to government agencies and law enforcement. The Governor secured a compromise agreement with the Legislature that will allow members of law enforcement and regulatory authorities to uncover misconduct, while addressing legitimate privacy concerns.

“For far too long, bad actors have been protected by the loose disclosure requirements of LLC ownership,” Governor Hochul said. “Wage theft, money laundering, tenant mistreatment and other unlawful activity has been masked by the opaque ownership structure of an LLC. The new LLC Transparency Act will give law enforcement and State regulators the tools they need to hold bad actors accountable.”

Legislation S.995B/A.3484 creates an LLC beneficial ownership database that can be accessed by Federal, State and local government law enforcement across New York State. This legislation gives these entities the tools to tackle criminal activity which, until now, has occurred behind a curtain of concealment. Individuals who set up, or already have ownership of LLCs and meet the requirements for disclosure, will be required to identify the names of the beneficial owner(s) in the filing.

Wave Hill Weekly Events Jan 11 – Jan 18 | Winter Birding & Plantwise Walk

 

The shorter days are upon us but there is something magical about the stillness of the garden in winter. While our Conservatory is the home of many of our blooms this season there is still much to see across the grounds, from monthly Birding to our guided Sunday walks. We’re also launching a new monthly program on Jan 13 called Plantwise, led by our Senior Horticultural Interpreter, Jess Brey. Designed for those looking to deepen their knowledge and connection to nature, it offers a closer look at some of the special plants at Wave Hill.  

And coming Sun, Jan 21, join us for an Evening of Transcendent Sound – a guided musical and meditative experience, combining the unique talents of the Bronx Arts Ensemble with Artemis Audio & Ayurveda.  

Family Art Project: Freedom Quilters of Gee’s Bend 

Sat, Jan 13, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Sun, Jan 14, 10:00AM – 1:00PM

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required. 

In 1966, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited the Gee’s Bend Community in rural Alabama and the Freedom Quilting Bee was established. The bold patterns and bright colors of these now-famous quilts made from fabric scraps would later go on to fund aspects of the community’s freedom. Create your own fabric collage to honor Dr. King’s birthday and the inspiring women quilters of Gee’s Bend. 

At 11:30AM, families can enjoy a storytime program in the Gund Theater; all ages welcome.     

Plantwise Walk: Bark and Buds that Bite Back 

Sat, Jan 13, 2:00PM – 3:00PM

Free with admission to the grounds  

Advance registration encouraged, online or by calling 718.549.3200 x251.

In a winter landscape, the evergreens get a lot of attention. Let's take a moment to celebrate deciduous trees by taking a close look at their bark and buds. Severe weather cancels. 

About the Plantwise Walk Series: 

A series led by Jess Brey, Wave Hill’s Senior Horticultural Interpreter, each walk will focus on a specific group of plants, encouraging a deeper relationship with some of the special plants that grow at Wave Hill. Topics explored may be nomenclature, ethnobotany, history and plant culture, such as pruning, germination and propagation. As the series title indicates, this is a program for the curious; adult participants with some plant knowledge will get the most out of these programs.    

Winter Birding 

Sun, Jan 14, 9:30AM – 11:00AM

Free with admission to the grounds 

Registration required; online or by calling 718.549.3200 x251. 

The Hudson River Valley hosts an impressive diversity of bird species, even during the winter months. Explore Wave Hill’s tranquil gardens and woodlands with birder guide Paul Keim to observe birds in their winter habitat. Birders of all levels encouraged. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult. Space is limited. Please bring your own binoculars. Severe weather cancels.     

Garden and Conservatory Highlights Walk 

Sun, Jan 14, 1:00PM – 1:45PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Join a knowledgeable Wave Hill Garden Guide for a leisurely stroll in the gardens. Topics vary by season and the expertise of the Guide--come back for an encore; each walk varies with the Guide leading it. This walk lasts a half-hour to 45 minutes. Public Garden Walks are most appropriate for adults or young adults. 

HOURS: 10AM–4:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday 

Shuttle Service runs Thursday–Sunday 

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at wavehill.org.