MTA’s new Subway Spikes Fail to Stop Turnstile jumpers in NYC
New York City’s subway system, a lifeline for millions, is facing a persistent challenge: fare evasion. In an attempt to curb this issue, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) recently introduced sharp metal spikes on turnstile gates at key stations, including 59th Street-Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street-Times Square. However, recent footage on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) shows that these deterrents may not be as effective as hoped.
Image Source: News 4
The spikes, part of a broader initiative to reduce fare evasion, were designed to make it harder for individuals to jump over turnstiles without paying. Yet, videos circulating online reveal masked individuals effortlessly bypassing the barriers, raising questions about their effectiveness. This comes as the MTA continues to grapple with the financial impact of fare evasion, which reportedly cost the agency nearly $700 million in 2022 alone.
In response to inquiries, an MTA spokesperson pointed to a May 2024 press release detailing the “turnstile fin” pilot project. This initiative is one of several strategies the agency is testing to address what it describes as a ”costly and systemic problem.”
Beyond the spikes, the MTA has also deployed “gate guards” at emergency exits to prevent tailgating—a common tactic where individuals slip into stations behind paying passengers. These measures are part of a multi-pronged approach to safeguard revenue and ensure fairness for all riders.
Simultaneously occurring, subway users are bracing for another fare hike. In late 2024, the MTA approved a bi-yearly increase, with the current $2.90 fare expected to rise to at least $3 by August 2025. This follows a 15-cent increase in 2023,which brought the fare up from $2.75 to its current rate.
As the MTA continues to innovate and adapt, the battle against fare evasion remains a complex and evolving challenge. Whether the spikes, gate guards, or future initiatives will prove effective, one thing is clear: New Yorkers are watching closely.
What inspired Lila Marksen to ”interview” her character, Ellara Voss, before writing *Shadows of teh Eternal Flame*?
Interview with a Fictional Character: Uncovering the Layers of Storytelling
By Archys, News Editor at Archyde
In the world of fiction, characters are the beating heart of every story. They guide us through adventures, evoke emotions, and often leave a lasting impression. But how well do authors truly know their characters before they begin writing? To explore this, we sat down with a fictional character, Ellara Voss, the protagonist of the upcoming fantasy novel Shadows of the Eternal Flame, created by acclaimed author Lila Marksen.
Archyde: Ellara, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with a simple question—who are you?
Ellara Voss: (smiles warmly) Thank you for having me. I’m a daughter of the Verdant Isles,a place where magic runs as deep as the roots of ancient trees. I’m a healer by trade, but my journey has taken me far beyond the confines of my village. I’ve learned that the world is vast, filled with both beauty and danger.
Archyde: Your creator, Lila marksen, mentioned that she didn’t fully understand you until she was 200 pages into the first draft. Was it a challenge for her to bring you to life?
Ellara Voss: (laughs softly) Oh,absolutely. Lila and I had a rocky start. She thought I was going to be a quiet, reserved healer who stayed in the background. But as the story unfolded, she realized I had a fire within me—a determination to protect those I love, even if it means stepping into the unknown. It took her a while to truly hear me.
Archyde: That’s engaging. How did the process of being “interviewed” by lila help shape your character?
Ellara Voss: It was transformative,really. Lila sat down one evening and began asking me questions—deep, probing questions. What are my fears? My greatest joys? What keeps me awake at night? It forced her to confront the complexities of my past and the motivations that drive me. Through these conversations, she discovered that I’m not just a healer; I’m a survivor.
Archyde: Many authors struggle with getting to know their characters before diving into the story. What advice would you give to writers who are just starting out?
Ellara Voss: (leans forward, her expression earnest) Take the time to listen. Characters, much like people, have layers. we’re not just a collection of traits or a backstory summary. We have hopes, dreams, and fears that shape our decisions. If writers can sit down and truly talk to their characters, they’ll find the story becomes richer and more authentic.
Archyde: Speaking of authenticity, how do you feel about the way Lila portrays your struggles in Shadows of the Eternal Flame?
Ellara Voss: (pauses thoughtfully) Lila has done an incredible job of capturing my journey—the pain, the triumphs, and the moments of doubt. She’s not afraid to let me fail, and I think that’s what makes the story resonate.It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s honest.
Archyde: As we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to say to readers who will soon meet you in the pages of the novel?
Ellara Voss: (smiles with a glimmer of mischief in her eyes) Prepare for a journey you won’t forget. The road ahead is filled with twists and turns, but I promise you this—it’s worth every step.
Archyde: Thank you, Ellara, for sharing your story with us. We look forward to seeing your adventures unfold in Shadows of the Eternal Flame.
Ellara Voss: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
Shadows of the Eternal Flame by Lila Marksen is set to release in Spring 2025. Pre-order your copy today to join Ellara Voss on her unforgettable journey.
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This interview highlights the importance of understanding characters deeply before bringing them to life on the page. By taking the time to “interview” their creations, authors like Lila Marksen can craft stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
