Famous Voices Advertising on the Subway: MTA’s New Pilot Program

The MTA is always looking for new ways to generate revenue and enhance the rider experience. One of their latest initiatives involves testing out audio advertisements in subway stations and on trains, featuring famous New Yorkers making announcements and promoting big events.

The pilot program, set to run for a year, aims to gauge rider response to these new forms of advertising. In-station advertisements for sporting and entertainment events will be played alongside display ads, while on-train announcements may feature celebrity voices delivering pre-recorded messages.

MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick explained that the agency is exploring different ways to leverage assets to maximize revenue and improve the rider experience. The new programs will be closely monitored and regulated to ensure that they comply with the MTA’s advertising policies, which prohibit certain types of content like political messages and explicit ads.

The idea of audible advertisements in stations has sparked some debate among riders and advocates. While some see it as a potential source of revenue for the agency, others are concerned about the impact on rider experience. Lisa Daglian, executive director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA, expressed concerns about potential sound clutter and distractions for riders.

Overall, the introduction of audio advertisements in the subway raises interesting questions about the balance between generating revenue and maintaining a positive rider experience. It will be interesting to see how passengers respond to these new initiatives and whether they will become a permanent fixture in the MTA’s advertising strategy.