New Yorkers are rediscovering the subway etiquette – avoid making eye contact and refrain from bringing strongly scented food – as the city recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Unwritten rules exist for New York City subway riders. Avoid eye contact, don’t block doors, and refrain from hogging seats.
Three years after the pandemic significantly reduced subway ridership in the country’s largest transportation network, millions are relearning these informal customs as passengers return to the system. During the pandemic, these unwritten rules were somewhat suspended, given that many people stayed home. However, with more riders now using the subway, old tensions are resurfacing, signaling a return to normalcy.
Jay Van Bavel, a social psychology expert at N.Y.U., explains that New Yorkers follow a long list of unwritten rules to navigate the crowded subway system. The subway is a place where people are in close proximity to each other, which is not the norm on the streets. Certain actions can lead to frustration or conflicts among riders.
While the subway is not at full capacity yet, it is still used by about four million people every weekday. Failure to follow these informal rules can lead to tempers flaring, as illustrated by recent incidents at Grand Central Terminal and Times Square station.
Common subway etiquette offenses include not spreading arms or legs to avoid crowding, allowing people to exit the train before boarding, refraining from playing loud music, not leaning on shared poles, and avoiding encroaching on personal space. Other annoying behaviors include putting bags on empty seats, bringing bicycles and scooters into crowded cars, and eating strong-smelling food.
The pandemic disrupted these unwritten rules, with many commuters avoiding the subway and new rules emerging, like social distancing and mask-wearing. New arrivals to the city have had fewer examples of proper behavior to follow, causing some anxiety and conflict.
While customer satisfaction with the subway has improved, recent surveys show a drop to 58 percent satisfaction in September. The M.T.A. aims for 70 percent satisfaction systemwide by the following June. Many riders indicate they would return if others behaved more predictably.
Some New Yorkers have noted positive changes during the pandemic, such as quieter and less crowded trains. People also seem to be more considerate of one another.
Official transit rules exist, some of which are legally enforced, including fare evasion, smoking, and taking up multiple seats. The M.T.A. has increased the issuance of summonses to address these issues and make riders feel safer.
The M.T.A. is striving to improve service and attract more riders by launching a marketing campaign encouraging polite behavior. The campaign features cartoon drawings and messages that emphasize good conduct. New Yorkers have expressed mixed opinions about these efforts, with some considering them unnecessary, while others appreciate the attempt to encourage proper etiquette on the subway.
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