The MTA sucks

Is there a more poorly run, price gouging transportation system in the world than New York City's MTA? A fire in a control room, set by a vagrant, has knocked out the C train for three to five YEARS. (As a Daily News editorial writes today, some of the systems for the subway were originally built in that amount of time. And how is it possible for one homeless person to cause more damage than the World Trade Center terrorists did in 1993 and 2001, respectively?)

Whenever I've traveled to another city, like Washington, San Francisco, Chicago, I've been struck at how orderly, efficient even people friendly some of the transportation systems are. Washington even has signs that inform you how long you'll be waiting for the next train.

What do you get in NYC? Filthy moldering stations, overcrowded, infrequent trains, poorly run connection hubs (the Columbus Circle station is a joke), and when there is a problem, you'll never find an MTA employee around to help customers, or to give you anything more than a dazed shrug.

I always did get a kick out of Urinetown's jabs at the MTA (which was the Municipal Toilet Authority in the world of the musical), but now more than ever, it's clear that the MTA is truly out to provide the worst service and charge as much as they can get away with for the privilege.

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Updated On: 1/25/05 at 08:08 AM

Magruder,
NYC has the greatest public transportation in the Country.

Updated On: 1/25/05 at 09:42 AM

Amazing. It'll take the MTA 3-5 years to repair the system. But ABC can build and furnish an entire house in 7 days. I don't get it.

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Updated On: 1/25/05 at 09:51 AM

If you said the best designed system, I'd be tempted to agree. The New York City subway system is a complete marvel of design and urban planning. However, it is being incredibly poorly run. And if you don't believe me, take a trip to Washington, Chicago or San Francisco and see how it compares to how poorly the MTA treats its riders.

And there's no C in Magruder. Just like there's no C in my life anymore.

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Updated On: 1/25/05 at 10:03 AM

Sing it, Mags!

When I visited London back in the mid-90's, I couldn't believe how well thought out the design was. You could get anywhere, and quickly. They told you just how long you'd have to wait for a train and they had those delicious Cadbury machines in every station!

Since I moved to Queens, I haven't gone more than two days without running into some sort of problem with my commute. And after 9pm, I automatically take a cab because I know just how long the wait will be.

If any other business were run this badly, they would fold. It's appalling.

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There is one other business run this badly - Amtrak.

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Transportation in Upstate New York doesn't quite have the same demands or level of expectations as the public transit system in America's largest city.

I was going to mention London's Underground too, but I haven't been there in many years. Glad to hear it's still excellent.

And Rath, I agree... Amtrak is ridiculous. Overpriced and unreliable. And then they wonder why no travels by Amtrak anymore.

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I take Metro North to Kingston fairly regularly and am always pleased, but that's a different line than you take, CJR, no?

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But the paper costs so MUCH!

I actually almost told a woman working there that I'm glad they are cutting jobs and I hope she's let go. I refrained, but DAMN...it's what I wanted to say.

I don't understand. If I'm not at least relatively pleasant and competent, I would be fired. Why not they?

Chelsea's calling...here's hoping the move happens soon!!!

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UMMMM helllooooo, the WORST transportation system is in Los Angeles! You guys in NY have nothing to complain about. Sure you may have to take numerous trains and a few buses to get where you want but at least you have options! Stepping outside and seeing a taxi is rare, you can't even find one unless you call to order one in advance. And as far as the costs - think how much you are saving on gas, car insurance, not to mention the price of the car itself, repairs, and registration!

Transferring in the London Underground is not pleasant, with the endless escalator rides, as oppo

And no air conditioning is not pleasant in the summer...

I'm very surprised that Mayor Bloomberg hasn't been working on the MTA. If they expect to get the Olympics in 2012 (please God, no!!) they are going to have to really polish up the subway system.

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A long time ago, I spent a couple of weeks in Montreal. I still remember being impressed with their metro (is that what it's called? can't remember). I also recall the stations being clean and artistic...each one having a different work of art, be it a mural or mosaic.

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