Navigating New York City’s sprawling subway system can be a challenge even for locals, but for visitors, it can feel like solving a complex puzzle. With over 472 stations and 36 lines crisscrossing the city, certain routes consistently cause more headaches than others.
Understanding which subway lines might throw a wrench in your travel plans can save you time and frustration during your Big Apple adventure.
Why Some Subway Lines Struggle More Than Others
Age plays a crucial role in subway reliability. Many of NYC’s tunnels and tracks date back to the early 1900s, creating a perfect storm of maintenance challenges. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reports that lines running through the oldest infrastructure, particularly in Manhattan, experience 35% more delays than newer sections.
Ridership volume also impacts performance dramatically. Lines serving major tourist destinations like Times Square and Grand Central handle millions of passengers weekly, leading to overcrowding and slower service during peak hours…