Over the weekend, the MTA unveiled a new R211 model subway car fleet on the A-line. They have security cameras, more accessible seating, and 8-inch wider doorways. New York City Transit President Richard Davey says they’re better trains. They’re “faster, cleaner, and safer,” he says.
These new R211 models are a $6 billion investment in the MTA’s $55 billion Capital Program. The program restructures former Governor Cuomo’s Subway Action Plan. The new subway cars are among 535 purchased, says the MTA in a press release. Another “440 cars with state-of-the-art amenities.” Also, “15 Staten Island Railway five-car trains and 20 cars with the open gangway feature.”
The R211 features wider doors, improved digital displays, additional accessible seating, and more. Enjoy your new ride! pic.twitter.com/hlJXpIZdyP
— MTA (@MTA) March 10, 2023
Davey and MTA executives cut the ribbon at the fleet’s inaugural ride Friday. “It’s a line we prioritized because we need to improve service on the A-line,” said MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. “These new cars enable us to run more service,” he says. The R211 models will replace the R46 subway cars that have run on the A-line since the mid-1970s.
The A Train (8 Avenue express) line runs from 207th Street in northern Manhattan to the Rockaways. It connects neighborhoods like Washington Heights and Inwood to the rest of the city. Between them and southeast Queens are over thirty miles. Other features of the new subway cars include LED display screens and USB chargers. They also have Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC). MTA’s new signal technology, a centralized system controlling their movement. More frequent trains can now run closer together.
