NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – The MTA announced on Monday that it has set up the first OMNY card vending machines aiming to make the transit payment system in New York City more seamless for commuters.
Commuters will now be able to purchase and refill their tappable OMNY cards using cash, credit and debit cards and digital wallets.
"Tap-and-go is the future of using our subway and bus system," Jamie Torres-Springer, MTA President of Construction & Development, said. "Allowing cash-paying customers to easily get and refill OMNY cards is a great addition."
The OMNY vending machines are becoming widely used as 50% of subway riders and 30% of bus raiders are currently using the tap-to-pay feature, Springer said.
"Our station agents are trained and ready to support customers who make the switch to OMNY so they can start tapping," NYC Transit President Richard Davey said.
OMNY also prevents commuters from spending more than $34.00 in a 7-day period.
The vending machines are scheduled to continue opening up at all 472 subway stations through 2024, with the first batch of machines now operated at stations including 86 Street and Lexington Avenue, Atlantic Ave-Barclays Center, Bowling Green, Fordham Road and Junction Boulevard.
To encourage commuters to make the switch, the MTA is offering new OMNY cards at a temporary price of $1, matching the cost of a new MetroCard.
This weekend, the MTA announced a record high of 2,744,462 paid subway rides on Saturday, the highest weekend day total since 2020.
"My administration has made historic investments in safety and increased service to attract more riders back to the MTA," Governor Kathy Hochul said on Tuesday. "We are continuing to break ridership records on our subways, railroads, and buses as New Yorkers proudly keep coming back to the system."
The transition to OMNY aims to make the commute easier, faster, and more convenient for millions of New Yorkers.
"If you haven't already, now is the time to trade in your MetroCard for OMNY – it's the future of transportation in New York," Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said.
