Ride the L train long enough, and the digital signs will get around to asking you the following question, posed in three parts:
So did you, dear rider, ever think you would be able to charge a subway ride? Did you know that you could use a debit or credit card to buy a new MetroCard at MetroCard Vending Machines? Have you know that since these hulking monstrosities were first introduced to the city over eight years ago?
That the question exists isn’t even the saddest part. Rather, the L trains have been broadcasting this PSA non-stop since the R143s were introduced to the line in 2001. Seven years later, we all know that we can charge our MetroCards, and it really wasn’t that shocking in the first place. Time for a new sign.
8 comments
That one annoys me every time I’m on the L. Why is being able to pay subway fare with a credit card supposed to be such a weird concept? You can buy practically anything else with plastic these days…
What’s even more amusing is that a year or so ago, I saw the original PSA on a couple of L Trains that still referenced the $1.50 fare.
Old messages have a way of coming back from the dead. Last month, I was on a downtown 2 train from Penn Station, and the recorded announcement told me that I could transfer to the 9 train at 14th St. and at Chambers St.
Haha, I’ve also snickered at that message. There’s also the one about the bus request-a-stop which seems rather random since you’re sitting on a TRAIN. I wonder if they’ll ever update those signs before the cars retire in 20+ years.
ScottE: I was on a 4 train turned 2 and it also told me all about the Q diamond and 9 train at Times Square. I think the software on those trains just hasn’t been updated since they very rarely run down the West side.
There’s also the one about the bus request-a-stop which seems rather random since you’re sitting on a TRAIN.
A lot of people transfer from trains to buses.
But can you buy them with Quatloos?
unfortunately, the vending machines are more consistent at accepting dollar bills than debit/credit cards. of course, i’m new here, and “dipping” is new debit/credit card terminology for me.
[…] more accessible. Riders could pay by credit card — a fact the L train still oddly touts as a new development — and no one had to deal with pockets stuffed with […]