MTA will replace the entire New York City subway system with LED lighting

The MTA plans to introduce brighter LED lighting at every station throughout the New York City subway system to improve public safety.

According to the New York Post, the plan will cost $21 million, and the MTA hopes that brighter lights at subway stations will help scare away would-be perpetrators.

According to NY1, the transit agency said it plans to convert all 150,000 fluorescent fixtures in the subway system to LED fixtures by mid-2026.

"By upgrading the lighting at our 472 subway stations, we are not only making the stations brighter and safer, we are also reducing costs and emissions" New York City Transit Commissioner Richard Davey said in a statement Tuesday. It's simple: a brighter station is a safer station."

The MTA said the new fixtures will also enhance the illumination of 15,000 security cameras throughout the subway system.

The project has already begun implementation. According to MTA officials, LED lights were installed on Bergen Street in late January, followed by Carroll Street and most recently Lafayette Avenue.

Riders will notice the changes immediately, Metro Senior Vice President Demetrius Crichlow said at a news conference Tuesday.

"The platforms and stairs will now be brighter, which will give a sense of comfort that the system is more secure," Critchlow said.

The MTA said the decision to upgrade the light bulbs will save the transit agency approximately $5.9 million annually in energy and material costs.