MTA Enhanced Station Initiative

Role: Designer

Type: Interaction Design, Visual Design, Industrial Design, Rail + Mass Transit

Grimshaw

Description

Just over 100 years after these stations originally opened, the MTA Enhanced Station Initiative project was commissioned through a joint effort between the governor of NY and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to improve the reliability, capacity, and customer experience inside the subway systems. 31 stations across the New York City region, covering all the boroughs were elected to become redesigned using the new MTA guidelines developed by Grimshaw that would be used moving forward to improve and build future stations.

Simplification in work and length of construction was key for ensuring on time delivery and minimizing service disruptions - a design build approach was used.

Improvements at each station were made to elevate the passenger experience by integrating new materials and technology. The new design vision and station guidelines that Grimshaw developed aim to ease trips through the incorporation of technology, high-quality durable material selections, and clarified wayfinding. Each station integrates new technology and industrial design elements that are capable of delivering the right information at the right place and time.

The stations also serve as a canvas for the MTA Art & Design program, bringing vibrant new works of public art integrated in each station. Together the improvements and enhancements signal an attention to human experience, balancing safety and comfort with the provision of an improved customer experience that can be appreciated by subway riders and passersby alike.