 June 15, 2000
Dear Messrs. Ford and Lombardi: We write to object to a change in how subway announcements are made that results in riders getting less advance notice of upcoming stations and transfer points. In the past, MTA New York City Transit conductors were instructed that “as the train is arriving, and before it stops in the station, identify the station, and announce any transfer options.” This made sense. Advance notice gives riders the information and time they need to get ready to exit. This is important for all passengers, but particularly people with disabilities, senior citizens and those traveling with children. In March 1999, MTA New York City Transit changed this policy. The new rule is “the routine cycle of announcements should be made in the station with the doors open, not while the train is moving,” according to Rapid Transit Operations (RTO) Bulletin 36-99. Such last-minute announcements are stressful, both for riders and conductors. At peak periods, many riders need the advance notice to gather up their belongings and prepare for the tough job of making it through the crowds to reach the doors. In addition, conductors must now make all their announcements while also coping with station noise, riders asking questions and their safety duties. The announcement policy also appears to undermine your priority goal to speed trains by reducing the time spent dwelling in stations. This change was made without public notice or consultation. We met with you in August 1999 to discuss MTA New York City Transit announcement policies, but were not informed of the change. In fact, we were told that the old rule in the fall 1996 “Blue Book”—which summarizes announcement policies for train personnel—was still in effect. We’ve checked with our colleagues at the New York City Transit Riders Council. They were not informed either. We would appreciate MTA New York City Transit considering a return to the practice of announcing upcoming stations just before the train enters the station. We also request a written reply describing the rationale for the change in announcement policy, as well as any analysis of what the impact of the change has been.
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