Technology is marching forward nearly everywhere, but it’s been particularly prevalent in recent MTA updates.
From the retirement of the MetroCard and the rollout of tap-and-go as the main payment method, to the installation of sleek new automatic gates, it seems like every turnstile is getting a digital upgrade. Even the trains themselves aren’t immune—real-time tracking, contactless options, and smart alerts are slowly turning the subway into something as digital as the city outside, or should we say above.
Following this parade of advancements is a new step entirely. The MTA is now exploring the use of artificial intelligence to keep an eye on its sprawling network, hoping for safety improvements throughout the system.
According to a report by The City, in December, the MTA asked tech firms for ideas on a “scalable” AI system that can watch its cameras in real time—spotting weapons, unattended items, and crowd dangers. The aim is to develop an AI that acts like a digital guardian for the subway.
The system would be intended to assist with surveillance across the subways. With more than 15,000 cameras across 472 subway stations, monitoring the system has largely been a manual, reactive process. Staff review footage to identify unsafe behavior, unattended items, or prohibited objects, a challenging task given the network’s size.
The tech firms’ request for information centers on AI for public safety, not facial recognition, though privacy concerns persist. The MTA has previously experimented with AI, including using Google Pixel phones on train axles to spot track defects and testing AI-enabled fare gates.
In an increasingly digital age, it’s important to keep up to date on what’s next for technology. Staying informed about these changes helps people understand both the opportunities and the challenges that come with innovation. It’s hard to say what’s going to come next in terms of advancements on our favorite transit systems, but one thing is for sure, we’ll keep you up to date so that you can be along for the ride.