Select subway stations throughout the system will be included among testing sites as part of a study by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, various New York City agencies, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Lincoln Laboratories that takes air samples later this month across the city, at both above and below ground locations.

The testing will take place on five separate days between Oct. 18 and 29 as part of a broader federal initiative aimed at yielding actionable data for emergency preparedness authorities. During the course of testing, customers using the system may see staff performing test and sampling operations. The study will track movement of non-toxic material and the results from these tests will be used to learn more about the relationship between airflow in street level and underground environments.

The testing is part of the federal Urban Threat Dispersion program and follows earlier testing in New York (2016), Washington and Boston. This study poses no health risks to the public, using materials that have repeatedly been used in prior outdoor and indoor airflow tests.

Customers may see signage identifying specific locations involved in the study as they travel around New York City.

WHEN:
Five separate days between Oct. 18 and Oct. 29.

WHERE:
Approximately 120 locations including above-ground areas and underground stations operated by multiple transit agencies.

CONTACT:
MTA Press Office 212-878-7440