The New York City Transit Riders Council, the voice of transit riders citywide issued the following statement upon learning of MTA Chairman Patrick Foye & NYC Transit Interim President Sarah Feinberg’s letter to the Mayor & Police Commissioner requesting an additional 1000 police officers for the subway system:
“We applaud Chairman Foye and Interim President Feinberg’s request for 1000 additional police officers to patrol the subway system”, said NYCTRC Chair Andrew Albert. “Not only is it important to keep riders safe by multiple daily cleanings of subway cars and stations, but it is also important to keep riders safe from those who would do them harm. Having a visible police presence will do that, as would additional mental health services and sufficient housing available for those who need it. I have heard from many riders who say they would rather see police officers than cleaners. We need both, and the dedicated transit workers and the riding public deserve both — which can still be done with the restoration of overnight subway service.”
The call for 1000 additional police officers is in addition to the 500 additional officers already approved by Police Commissioner Dermot Shea.