2025 Theses Master's

Transforming Urban Public Transportation: Recommendations to Enhance Efficiency, Safety, and Cleanliness in New York City’s Subway System

Yin, Jerry

The New York City subway system, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), is a critical component of urban mobility but faces persistent challenges related to delays, safety, and cleanliness. These issues undermine system reliability and negatively shape public perception. This thesis examines how targeted design interventions and technology-driven solutions can improve subway operations, enhance commuter safety, and create a cleaner transit environment.

Using a mixed-methods approach, the thesis analyzes publicly available transit performance data, commuter survey responses, and global case studies to evaluate best practices applicable to New York City. The findings inform a set of evidence-based recommendations for the MTA and policymakers that address operational inefficiencies and commuter concerns, with a particular focus on the potential for platform screen doors, predictive maintenance, and automated cleaning systems to improve service reliability and public trust in the subway system.