Governor Kathy Hochul today joined MTA officials and law enforcement to highlight a FY 2026 New York State Budget deal that delivers on the Governor’s public safety commitments to continue making our subways safer for all riders and transit workers. These major investments increase the presence of law enforcement, make crucial safety upgrades in protective barriers and LED lighting and continue cracking down on fare evasion. New York City’s Subways continue to experience the lowest levels of crime overall outside the pandemic since the 1990s — and as a result of the Governor’s continued efforts to prioritize public safety and make our subways safer, crime is down 11 percent since last year and down 16 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels.
“When it comes to keeping New Yorkers safe – I refuse to back down, and that is why I fought for a budget that is delivering on my promises to add more police in our subways, invests in crucial safety upgrades, and cracks down on shameless fare evaders,” Governor Hochul said. “For New York City to thrive, our mass transit system must be safe, strong and reliable, and we are delivering a State Budget that supports these goals.”
Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced comprehensive steps to increase law enforcement presence, expand public resources and strengthen mental health policies to make the transit system safer for New Yorkers. As a result, subway crime is down 11 percent year-to-date in 2025 and 16 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Additionally, serious crimes in New York City are down 8 percent year-to-date compared to the same period in 2024.
To build on this momentum, Governor Hochul’s FY26 New York State Budget includes investments to fund safety initiatives, mental health programs and infrastructure improvements across the subway system.
