As New York magazine observed, the New York subway system's technology predates that of the Ford Model T. This means that despite $26 billion in upgrades beginning in the 1980s, the system still needs an incredible amount of basic maintenance (and accompanying funds) just to keep it running. Very old equipment is fragile and difficult to keep working. Floods are a major problem, given its subterranean nature, while fires--both intentional and byproducts of the electricity needed to power the system--are not uncommon.
Another drawback to riding the subway is overcrowding. During rush hour, many trains are standing-room only, with passengers packed tightly together. This is not only uncomfortable, but it can also cause delays. Passengers take more time to weave through fellow riders to get off at their stop and others hold doors as they attempt to squeeze onto a train. This is unlikely to get better any time soon, as the New York Times reported, because many lines are running at full capacity, meaning there is no room on the tracks they use for additional trains to accommodate the ever-growing number of riders.
In some cases, it is the other riders that make the subway a negative experience. Although the New York City subways have relatively little bacteria, according to a study by University of Arizona microbiologist Dr. Chuck Gerba, other riders that sneeze and cough in a crowded subway can easily spread germs. Violence has been known to erupt on the subway as well, from simple fistfights to more serious shootings and stabbings.
