MTA New York City Transit Authority (also known as NYCT NYCTA, or simply the TA for Transit Authority) is a New York State Authority (under the state Authorities Law) that operates buses and subway trains in New York City. The TA was originally founded in 1953 as a city agency to operate surface lines (buses and then, streetcars) and the IRT, BMT, and IND subways; before that date these services were managed by New York City's Board of Transportation. In 1965, the TA became part of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), a state commission, though legally it is a separate Authority (similar to a separate public corporation).
Over the years, NYCTA has been upgrading its network image, including safer trains and stations, new MetroCard Vending Machines, easier-to-read maps, and cleaner trains. Much of the fleet was filthy and covered in graffiti in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s, and the cars had many breakdowns. Since 1989, all cars have been graffiti-free, and are well-maintained and air-conditioned or heated as necessary. Upgrading the rail fleet includes replacement of older cars, including the phasing out of most of the Redbird IRT cars, some dating back to 1957 and the replacement of the 1966-1974 R38, R40, R40M, R42, & R44 IND/BMT cars by 2010.
The current NYCTA fare for buses and trains is $2. Incresed from $1.50 on May 4 2003. For more information on fares see below. The MetroCard is the main form of fare payment, which is a magnetic stripe card purchasable in any amount from $2 to $80. 1-day, 7-day, and 30-day unlimited cards are also available. The famous token was phased out by 2003 and is now a collector's item.
Looking to the future, NYCTA is planning on replacing its older fleet of cars, some which date to the early 1960s. Plans also include the extension of the 7 train line to Manhattan's West Side in time for the 2012 Summer Olympics, and a Lower Manhattan Transportation Center at the new World Trade Center.
NYCTA fare history
See also: New York Subway
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