The Brian Lehrer Show MTA Update: Lawsuits and New Subway Cars
Mar 20, 2026
Stephen Nessen, WNYC transportation reporter covering NYC transit policy and rolling stock. He discusses the TWU lawsuit over unfilled station agent shifts and why accessibility groups joined the fight. He explains the MTA lawsuit seeking reimbursements for Second Avenue Subway work. He also covers the RFP for the largest-ever subway car order targeting the 1/3/6 lines.
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Token Booths Reclassified And Now Not Always Backfilled
- The MTA converted token booth roles into customer service positions and now won't backfill absences under a January policy change.
- TWU and the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled sued, saying MTA skipped required public procedures and left stations potentially unstaffed.
Disability Groups Say Agents Affect Accessibility
- Disability advocates argue station agents provide essential help like opening gates and assisting with elevators and cards.
- The Center for Independence of the Disabled joined the lawsuit because agents materially affect accessibility for visually impaired riders.
Union's Hardline Stance Ahead Of Contract Talks
- The TWU's sharp public attacks on Governor Hochul and past tensions over operator staffing reflect escalating bargaining posture ahead of the union contract expiring in May.
- A veto last year of a bill mandating two-person train operation intensified union anger and public rhetoric.