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MTA states ridership is up, some of the highest we've seen in the new pandemic-era of NYC. Governor Kathy Hochul and MTA announced that although they are still trying to bring ridership numbers up, they have seen the highest number of riders since the start of the pandemic.
“Strong and dynamic transportation infrastructure is key to our recovery, and we are working hard to maintain our progress in returning to pre-pandemic levels,” Governor Hochul said. “This ridership milestone sends a strong message that New York’s comeback is right on track, and our mass transit systems will continue to power our economic recovery.”
The Metro-North reported 158,798 riders on Tuesday, May 10th which is 61% of 2019's daily average and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) reported 178,100 riders on Wednesday, May 11th which is 62% of 2019's daily average. These are the highest numbers we have seen since March 12, 2020.
“Customers are returning to the rails for work, school, and to enjoy all that the New York metropolitan area has to offer. The ridership milestones we reached this week are further evidence of the region’s comeback and the pivotal role transit plays in powering our economic recovery,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber.