Open Gangway Coming to the G Train
In early 2025, the MTA will redeploy 10 of the door-less cars—currently running on the C line—to the G train, which uses shorter, five-car trains. This move will provide two open gangway trains for G line commuters while still maintaining one 10-car train for the C line.
“It’s going to be ‘OG’ on the G: open gangway on the G train,” said MTA Chair Janno Lieber.
Advocates praised the decision, saying it will improve the travel experience for G train riders.
“As any G train rider knows, these new train cars will go a long way to making for a better ride,” said Lisa Daglian, executive director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA. “The open gangways are as unique as the G itself, and we’re looking forward to a better Queens-Brooklyn ride.”
The G train’s Crosstown Line, which doesn’t use full 10-car trains, is the perfect fit for these innovative cars. Unlike the open gangway trains on the C line, which don’t run on weekends, G line passengers will benefit from seven-day-a-week service.
Expansion and Future Plans
The MTA’s additional 80 open gangway cars are designed to operate across any of the city’s lettered subway lines. Officials highlighted that this expansion is funded by revenue from the upcoming congestion pricing program, set to launch on January 5, 2025.
Lieber reassured the public that the order would proceed even if congestion pricing faces delays or legal challenges. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to end the program, but Lieber emphasized that the train car purchase will move forward regardless.
Cost-Efficient Deal
The 435 new subway cars, including the 80 open gangway models, come at a price of approximately $2.9 million per car. Lieber noted that this figure is a bargain because the deal with manufacturer Kawasaki was negotiated over five years ago, before COVID-19-related supply chain issues drove up production costs.
“The pricing on this … is honestly pre-COVID pricing before supply chain issues dramatically increased,” Lieber said.
Why Open Gangways Matter
The open gangway design, already popular in cities like London and Tokyo, offers several advantages:
- Increased passenger capacity by allowing riders to spread out.
- Improved flow during peak hours, reducing bottlenecks.
- Enhanced accessibility for passengers, including those with strollers or luggage.
What’s Next for New York Commuters?
With plans to expand open gangway trains to more subway lines in the coming years, New York City commuters can expect a smoother, more modern travel experience. For G train riders, the wait won’t be long—spacious and connected trains will soon transform their daily commute, making it easier to move between cars and enjoy a more comfortable ride.
