NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The MTA announced Monday plans to introduce OMNY card vending machines at subway stations as part of the subway’s push to transition from MetroCard to the new OMNY system.
OMNY, which uses tap-to-pay instead of swiping, is currently only available using a smartphone, contactless credit card or by buying an OMNY card from a retail outlet.
The MTA is planning to have OMNY vending machines in 472 subway stations by September.
The agency had originally planned to phase out MetroCards by the end of 2023, but delayed the deadline last year. As of Monday’s committee meeting, there was no official date for retiring the MetroCard system.
About 40% of current commuters pay the $2.75 subway and bus fare with OMNY, according to officials. The MTA is aiming to increase OMNY usage with the introduction of the new vending machines.
The MTA will also continue to expand OMNY integration outside of the New York City subway system. The agency has plans to add OMNY payment to Access-A-Ride over the summer as well as the Roosevelt Island Tramway and JFK Air Train by Thanksgiving.
Authorities estimated the rollout is about halfway complete.
MTA chair Janno Lieber also said MTA booth workers will transition to a new role outside the booths as the payment system becomes increasingly automated.
He estimated booth transactions are down to about 1%, and said the MTA is seeking to transition the position into a more customer-service-based role.
“We made a deal with the union for the station agents that come out of the booths and interact with people,” said Lieber. “So, giving directions, helping people with the vending machine, just deal with problems and being eyes and ears in the system.”
Lieber also said the agents will look for maintenance and safety issues, and will have a direct line to municipal workers and police to keep the subways running smoothly.
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