New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow publicly criticized the Transport Workers Union (TWU) on Monday for renewing its legislative efforts to maintain existing two-person crews on subway trains. The dispute centers on the potential expansion of one-person train operation (OPTO) technology throughout the city’s subway system.
Clash Over Subway Staffing
Crichlow stated during the March 23 New York City Transit Committee meeting that the TWU International-supported legislation would hinder the MTA’s ability to implement OPTO on additional train lines. The TWU’s Local 100 represents approximately 36,000 conductors who could be affected by a shift to OPTO. Traditionally, conductors have been responsible for tasks such as opening and closing train doors and making service announcements, as well as assisting passengers during emergencies.
The NYC Transit president’s comments followed the union’s recent revival of its push to mandate two-person crews on all trains that currently have them. Crichlow argued that “legislating details of New York City Transit’s daily operation” is “unwise” and would prevent the agency from “safely taking advantage of new technology that could save the public millions of dollars.” He further stated that OPTO is now the “industry standard” among high-performing transportation networks.
TWU Local 100 President John Chiarello countered that removing a second crew member would compromise safety, stating, “What’s unwise is doing away with a set of eyes and ears on trains that prevents perilous situations from happening during operation and allows for our members to be first on the scene when an emergency situation occurs.”
Cost Concerns and Contract Negotiations
Crichlow indicated that implementing OPTO on existing lines has already resulted in $9 million in annual savings, which are being reinvested into employees and service improvements. He initially referenced a previous version of the bill that would have applied the two-person crew requirement to all lines, including those already utilizing OPTO. However, the current legislation would only apply to lines that currently have two-person crews.
TWU International President John Samuelson disputed Crichlow’s cost claims, asserting the new bill is “cost-neutral” and simply maintains the current staffing levels. Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed a previous version of the bill last year, citing an estimated $10 million annual cost to the state. Samuelson believes the current bill addresses those concerns.
The legislative push coincides with upcoming contract negotiations between the union and the MTA, with the current contract expiring on May 15. According to Samuelson, the union aims to “enshrine” the two-person crew model into state law to prevent recurring attempts to reduce conductor positions during contract bargaining.
Public Support and Advocacy
The TWU recently released a poll, conducted by the Honan Strategy Group, indicating that 87% of its 1,517 respondents support the legislation. However, nearly half of those surveyed – 48% – reside in Northern New Jersey and on Long Island. The union is collaborating with disability advocates, including the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled, and the transit advocacy group Riders Alliance in its efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OPTO?
OPTO stands for One Person Train Operation, a technology that allows trains to be operated by a single person, rather than a two-person crew consisting of a driver and a conductor.
What is the TWU’s position on OPTO?
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) opposes the expansion of OPTO and is advocating for legislation to maintain two-person crews on all subway trains that currently have them.
What is the MTA’s argument for expanding OPTO?
The MTA argues that OPTO is an “industry standard” that can save the public millions of dollars and allow for reinvestment in employees and service improvements.
As the MTA continues to explore technological advancements, will the debate over staffing levels and safety protocols continue to shape the future of New York City’s subway system?
