New York City is enhancing the convenience and affordability of its subway system for students. This school year, eligible students will receive student OMNY cards instead of MetroCards, granting them up to four free rides per day without time restrictions. This update marks a significant improvement from the previous policy, which allowed only three free trips per day, limited to school days and specific times.

More Rides, More Opportunities

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) chair, Janno Lieber, emphasized the positive impact of this change, stating it will open up more opportunities for students. “We want to make sure that kids doing internships, who are getting out to get experience, have the benefit of the transit system,” Lieber said. The expanded free-ride program aims to support students in their educational and professional endeavors, making it easier for them to participate in internships, after-school activities, and other valuable experiences.

Addressing Fare Evasion with OMNY Cards

Mayor Eric Adams hopes that the new student OMNY cards will also help reduce fare evasion. By providing students with more free rides, the city aims to decrease the number of students skipping fares and ensure that they have reliable access to public transportation. The OMNY cards will be distributed to eligible students at the start of the school year, simplifying the process and ensuring that all students can benefit from the program.

This initiative reflects New York City’s commitment to supporting its students and providing them with the resources they need to succeed. By expanding free subway rides, the city is helping to create a more inclusive and accessible transit system for all students.