New Yorkers may soon hear a new question during their commute-and it will sound a little more Berlin than Bronx: "Can you show me your phone or your OMNY card?" The MTA has announced plans to roll out a "European-style" fare inspection system aboard city buses, replacing NYPD enforcement with civilian agents, in its latest effort to curb fare evasion.
MTA officials announced on Sept. 30 that in 2026, coins, including nickels, dimes and quarters, will no longer be accepted on NYC buses. The agency has not yet announced a date for this to take effect. However, the MTA will continue to accept coins at card vending machines in subway stations and the 2,700 local businesses that sell OMNY cards. Commuters can utilize the OMNY tap-and-go payment system with their credit cards, smartphones or OMNY cards.
I vividly remember the first time I used my phone to ride the New York City subway. I tapped my device against the translucent rectangle thing, the light turned green, and the turnstile made a familiar click inviting me to push through the metal arms. On the other side, the future beckoned. After a two-decade run as New York's preeminent pass to the subway, the MetroCard has officially joined the brass token in the annals of subway history.
