G Train Flows into the Future Now

Two 21^st century trains with open gangways debut on the G-line

Shiny blue seats, wider doors, and an open gangway are some of the perks of the new G train cars that rolled out on March 4.
*Photo credit: Marc A. Hermann / MTA*

March fourth saw the G Train march forth into the modern age with the addition of two R211 subway cars. These trains feature: open-gangways, pre-installed security cameras in each car, wider doorways, additional accessible seating, more detailed station-specific information on digital displays, and brighter lighting and signage, among other things. G riders will have a 15% chance of riding in one of the new cars, which is about one out of seven rides. The open gangway will be helpful to those with strollers or wheelchairs to move between cars and prevent subway surfing.

“If you know about the train, you know that our riders often have to sprint to the train, given how short the train car is. Having open train cars means people will no longer be crammed on the ends but can move more freely through the car to find a seat or have some space. These cars are also more accessible for riders who use wheelchairs or otherwise need more room for entry. Thank you to the MTA for all your work to modernize our subway system and bring these R211 to the train,” said NYS Assembly Member Emily Gallagher.

The G Train runs short so if you’re running to catch it from the back or front, an open gangway
is helpful to get you to a better place to exit. *Photo credit: Marc A. Hermann / MTA*

“The train is getting better!,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “The new open gangway cars are awesome and I am excited they are coming to the line. These upgraded cars make boarding easier and bring enhanced safety measures.”

“The train serves tens of thousands of New Yorkers daily, and like my Council District, serves both Brooklyn and Queens,” said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez. “For too long it has been overlooked when it comes to investments in service and infrastructure. I’m glad to see an investment of adding open-gangway R211 trains, and I’ll continue to push for more investments that ensure train riders get the reliable, accessible, and high-quality service they deserve.”

More detailed station-specific information on digital displays in the new G Train cars. *Photo credit: Marc A. Hermann / MTA*

“Open-gangway subway cars are part of the future of transit, and I’m thrilled to see Brooklyn paving the way,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “Following the MTA’s renovations to the line last summer, riders have steadily experienced smoother, more reliable service, and these new subway cars will offer even more benefits to commuters. New Yorkers deserve a first-rate rider experience, and I’m thankful to the MTA for prioritizing the line, once one of the most unreliable lines in the entire system.”