URGENT UPDATE: New York seniors and disabled riders are facing significant challenges as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) transitions from the traditional MetroCard to the new OMNY (One Metro New York) fare system. This shift, set to fully take effect by January 1, 2024, is causing confusion and anxiety among vulnerable populations.
At a recent MTA outreach event, elderly couple Pat and Chick Schissel struggled to transfer their MetroCard balances to OMNY cards. They are among roughly 1.5 million users enrolled in the MTA’s discount program who are grappling with this sudden change, which poses both mobility and technological hurdles. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated as these individuals are forced to adapt quickly to avoid losing their fare balances.
Concerns extend beyond just the technical aspects. Beth Childs, an 86-year-old resident of Midtown, expressed her fears regarding security when linking her OMNY card to her bank account. “I don’t want a card linked to my checking account or my credit card that can possibly be lost or stolen and my account drained,” Childs said. This sentiment resonates with many who are wary of new technology.
Advocacy groups have raised alarms about the new tap-to-pay options, highlighting that for some disabled individuals, the transition is particularly challenging. Many riders previously relied on paper vouchers for their Access-A-Ride trips, making the new system a daunting change.
The MTA has organized several outreach events to assist New Yorkers in transferring their MetroCard balances to OMNY cards. In-person assistance is critical, as there is currently no digital option for balance transfers. MTA officials urge users to complete their transfers before the MetroCard becomes obsolete, emphasizing that while balances can be transferred or reimbursed for up to two years post-expiration, immediate action is necessary.
MTA spokesperson Michael Cortez noted that 94% of reduced-fare trips are now paid through OMNY, stating that the new system offers greater access and flexibility compared to the MetroCard. However, many users have yet to make the switch, leading to a growing divide between those comfortable with technology and those who are not.
OMNY cards are available at subway station vending machines, select retail outlets, and can be reloaded online through a registered account. The MTA has published a full schedule for balance transfers in outlets like the New York Post, ensuring users have the necessary information for a smooth transition.
As the MTA pushes forward with this technological change, the challenge remains to ensure that all riders, especially older adults and individuals with disabilities, can effectively access and utilize the new system. The clock is ticking, and the urgency of this transition is palpable. New Yorkers must act quickly to navigate this significant shift in their transit experience.
