Young New Yorkers Propose Solutions to Curb Subway Surfing

In New York City, a group of young students from P.S. 211/Elm Tree Elementary School is advocating for changes to prevent subway surfing, a dangerous trend that has resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals in the past three years. The children, aged nine and ten, argue that current safety messages are ineffective and actually encourage risky behavior. They propose innovative designs for subway cars to improve safety and reduce incidents.

The children expressed their concerns in a letter, highlighting that despite the common refrain, “Ride inside, stay alive,” the message often backfires. “We’re kids, and we can tell you that these announcements do the opposite,” they stated. Instead of deterring young people, the warnings seem to fuel curiosity, with older youths turning the messages into soundtracks for their subway surfing videos.

According to their research, social media plays a significant role in the popularity of subway surfing. The children referenced the tragic case of **Norma Nazario**, who lost her son to this trend and is currently suing **TikTok** and **Instagram** for promoting such dangerous behavior. While the lawsuit highlights the issue, the students acknowledge that it is uncommon for such legal actions to succeed, particularly against large social media platforms that host countless videos displaying risky stunts.

In light of the ineffectiveness of public service announcements and lawsuits, the young advocates suggest that the **Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)** must take action by redesigning subway cars. They have brainstormed ideas for new train designs, which include open gangway cars, removable ladders, movement sensors equipped with alarms, and additional surveillance cameras. The MTA is currently testing barriers on the No. 7 trains, and the students are eager to see if this initiative leads to fewer incidents.

Their call for action emphasizes the urgent need for innovation to protect young riders. “Kids are the ones most hurt by subway surfing, so you should listen to us!” they implored. With their passionate plea for improvements, the students are pushing for a quicker response from city officials, warning that without timely action, more lives could be at risk.

The issue of subway surfing is not isolated to New York City. As urban areas around the world experience similar trends, the students’ proposal offers a potential path forward. By prioritizing safety in design, cities could mitigate the dangers associated with subway surfing and protect younger populations.

In addition to the subway surfing discussion, there have been various opinions shared on other pressing matters in New York. Recent editorials have sparked conversations about the MTA’s staffing decisions, public safety, and the impact of gas lobbyists on energy policy. Residents have expressed concern over the lack of conductors on trains, questioning the implications for both employment and safety.

As discussions continue, the sentiments expressed by the young students serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of those most affected by urban policies. Their advocacy reflects a growing awareness among youth about safety and responsibility in public spaces, highlighting the need for proactive measures in the face of emerging trends.