NYC: As Subway Ridership Soars, So Do Delays [View all]

(WNYC) By almost every standard the MTA uses to measure subway performance, the system is struggling to keep pace. Delays are up, on time performance is down, and older car models need to be repaired more often.

The overburdened Lexington Avenue line is especially feeling the pain. Just 66 percent of 5 and 6 trains meet agency headway standards — the scheduled interval between trains. The 4 is only slightly better, at 71 percent.

"The 4/5/6 is a very intense line," said MTA operations manager Peter Cafiero. "We're meeting weekly on [it]."

But all lines are feeling the crush. In October 2015, there were over 20,000 subway delays due to overcrowding. In October of 2014, that number was...13,805.

MTA board member Fernando Ferrer says waiting for a train during rush hour these days is not for the faint-hearted. ..........(more)

http://www.wnyc.org/story/subway-ridership-soars-so-do-delays/