By Destiny Hurtado

After growing concerns over safety in the busy areas of New York City's subway system, Governor Kathy Hochul has made plans aimed at increasing security measures. As part of this initiative, National Guard troops will be deployed to subway stations across the city, surveillance cameras will be installed, along with an increased police presence. However, this announcement, for some commuters, has caused mixed reactions.

A week after the implementation of the National Guard, a shocking incident occurred in Lower Manhattan: a man pushed a woman onto the tracks in front of an upcoming train, resulting in severing both of her legs. This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of the security measures put in place and the capacity of the National Guards to prevent such acts. As the city develops, the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of subway passengers has become even more urgent. 

“The Governor’s recent deployment of the National Guard was unwarranted and caused fear rather than a sense of safety,” said Jo Anne Simon, an Assembly member who represents the area where the event took place. “There are not enough National Guards to do a bag search for every subway station; we need at least 3,000 Guardsmen." There is growing suspicion among some leading officials and residents alike, regarding the efficacy of the current security measures. A more comprehensive approach is needed to address the complex issues plaguing the transit system.

The intervention of the National Guard may not accurately address the underlying social and economic factors contributing to crime, such as homelessness and mental health issues. Additionally, there are also concerns about the potential militarization of public spaces, which could further up tensions and break community trust. 

This skepticism specifically came from the following two tragic incidents: the fatal shooting on March 15 at a busy Brooklyn subway station A train, and a recent shooting on a southbound D train at the 182-183 Streets station. These events raise questions about the National Guard's ability to prevent such incidents and protect passengers. 

The timeline of these events highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to subway safety that goes beyond law enforcement. Addressing the root causes of crimes requires strategies that incorporate social services, mental health support, and community involvement. 

Despite this, the National Guard's presence can provide an instant boost to security, offering reassurance to passengers amidst growing concerns over crime and violence. The visible presence of armed forces and bag checks may act as a deterrent to potential criminals and help enhance law enforcement efforts to tackle crime within the subway. The National Guard can offer valuable support to local law enforcement, particularly during emergencies or high-risk situations. 

Supporters of the decision say that the collaboration between the MTA and the National Guard demonstrates a productive approach to enhancing public safety and restoring confidence in the subway system. 

The mixed reactions to the deployment of the National Guard show the complexities of ensuring public safety in the city. While some view it as a necessary measure to combat crime and give a sense of security, others remain skeptical about its long-term effectiveness and broader implications. 

This initiative's success will depend on comprehensive strategies that address immediate security concerns as well as the economic factors contributing to crime and unrest. As the MTA and the National Guard continue to collaborate in keeping passengers safe, their efforts will be essential in shaping the future of public safety within New York City's transit system.