The classic “click-clack” of the metal turnstile is officially on its way out.
Those sleek, glass-doored fare gates you’ve been spotting at a few lucky stations are about to become the new NYC standard.
During a recent board meeting, the MTA announced it’s ready to go all-in on its modern fare gate expansion.
After testing out different prototypes at 20 “pilot” stations—including spots like Broadway-Lafayette and Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr—the agency is preparing to roll these high-tech gates out to 150 stations (of its 472) across all five boroughs.
Those 20 “pilot” stations will additionally get the new fare gates at every entrance.
According to the MTA’s official project tracker, the goal is to have these gates serving a massive 75% of all riders through the 2025-2029 Capital Plan.
While they definitely look like they belong in a sci-fi movie, the main reason for the upgrade is a bit more practical.
The MTA is on a mission to stop fare evasion and recoup the millions lost every year.
AMNY reports that these paddle-style doors are significantly harder to jump or crawl under compared to the old-school metal bars.
In fact, earlier modifications like “fins” on traditional turnstiles already slashed jumping by 60 percent, and the MTA is betting these new gates will do even better.
It isn’t just about security though.
These wide-aisle gates are a total game-changer for anyone traveling with a stroller, heavy luggage, or a wheelchair.
You can finally say goodbye to struggling through those narrow emergency exit gates that trigger an ear-piercing alarm every time they open. Instead, you just tap your phone or OMNY card and the glass doors glide open for a much smoother entrance.
Despite the “success” labels being tossed around by officials, some are still skeptical about the hard numbers.
During the board meeting, The NY Post noted that while the gates are being called a win, specific data on exactly how many people are still finding ways around them remains a bit of a mystery.
Gothamist also highlighted that while the expansion is happening, the MTA is still fine-tuning which of the gate designs will become the permanent standard for the rest of the city.
Expect to see construction crews popping up at major hubs soon as the rollout continues through 2026.
Your morning commute is about to look a lot more modern very soon.
