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Fines for jumping turnstitles leaps to $100

By Matthew Sweeney | msweeney@am-ny.com

7:03 PM EDT, June 29, 2008

Starting today, the fine for jumping a turnstile leaps to $100.

The summons increase from $60 is likely to be the first step toward $200 fines for which NYC Transit is seeking state approval.

The hike was enacted to protect a new off-bus payment system in use on the Bx12 bus route. The Bx12, which runs along Fordham Road, last week began running Transit's first "Select Bus Service," a pilot effort to speed service through dedicated lanes and fare collection before boarding.

Passengers on the pilot service will randomly be asked for their receipts to ensure they've paid for the ride, but for the most part, riders are on the honor system. However, NYC Transit hopes the hefty fine will make people think twice before trying to get a free ride.

In 2007, Transit collected $7.2 million from fare evasion summonses. Officials estimate that by increasing the fine to $100, Transit may reap nearly $5 million more.