MTA Adding Turnstiles to Subway Stations (Source: KTLA)

MTA Adding Turnstiles to Subway Stations - KTLA

MTA Adding Turnstiles to Subway Stations

KTLA News

August 17, 2009
 


MTA Hopes to Increase Revenue with Turnstiles MTA Hopes to Increase Revenue with Turnstiles Video

LOS ANGELES -- Free rides will soon be over for some subway passengers in Los Angeles. The county Metropolitan Transportation Authority is taking steps to add turnstiles to several stations in an effort to save money, and improve safety.

The MTA is trying to erase its reputation as the only major transit agency in the United States that doesn't equip its stations with turnstiles and security barriers.

For decades, the MTA has used a gate-free honor system in which passengers walk directly to train platforms without verifying that they have a ticket.

The only method used to catch fare cheaters is through random checks by civilian inspectors and sheriff's deputies. Those who are caught face a fine of up to $250.

Cheaters cost the system much more per year in lost revenue -- at least $5 million.

Eight turnstiles are currently in use on a trial basis at the Alameda Street portal for the Red Line stop in Union Station, and five are operating at the Wilshire-Normandie station.

By the end of August, 12 turnstiles are expected to be installed at the Pershing Square station and 10 at Westlake-MacArthur Park.

If the gates prove effective, the MTA will proceed with a $46-million plan to install 387 turnstiles and security fences by early 2010 at all subway and Green Line light-rail stations and at selected stops for the Blue Line and Gold Line light-rail trains.

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