Since the start of 2022, the NYPD has reported a 75% increase in transit violence according to nyc.gov website.

On social media, commuters from all over the city can be seen posting safety protocols train users can follow. However, many people still feel unsafe. This significant increase in violence is sickening.

What has Mayor Adams done since the NYPD released their violence reports? He has rolled out his plan to stop train violence by increasing the size of response teams by hiring more trained clinicians to connect people with resources and direct NYPD officers to enforce MTA rules.

WJPS Junior Dayssy Acuahuitl, a traveling soccer player, said, “The mayor trying to roll out long-term system improvements through quick changes doesn’t seem reliable. If anything, short term changes should be made and adapted when needed.”

Rules and regulations should be changed more frequently since there is no guarantee that in a few months, there will be enough willing clinicians to help the MTA if the violence rate keeps increasing.

Mayor Adams’s official website also provided a summary of his speech deeming a push for new systems of “mental health care, housing, and social infrastructure” to ensure New Yorkers have the “long-term care and support they need, and no longer live lives of social and economic isolation and marginalization.”

WJPS senior, Yarelly Ramirez said, “It’s a good idea, and a better alternative than putting police on there to cause fear, as mental health should be a resource, not just when crime is up.”

Adams said, “this new plan is a perfect example of how we can bring together support from every corner of city government to build a safer and more just city for all.