As New York begins to emerge from the pandemic, there is no doubt that a functioning transportation system is essential to the city’s recovery.
The problem is, New Yorkers aren’t comfortable using it, and that discomfort has only increased in recent weeks, according to the latest Spectrum News NY1 / Ipsos survey.
The survey also reveals that New Yorkers are more willing to participate in other aspects of city life, but are not yet ready to completely ditch their masks.
The subway has been plagued by a number of violent crimes in recent weeks, which has not only sparked a cross-accusation between the city and the MTA, but also appears to be driving users away.
Less than half of New Yorkers, 42%, agree that they are comfortable taking the subway or bus right now, while 50% disagree.
Insecure New Yorkers.
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That 42% figure is lower than our last April survey, in which 50% felt comfortable on public transport.
“In general, people are a bit hesitant,” said Ipsos research director Mallory Newall, “and are starting to think a little more about their safety and what it means for their daily lives.”
Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds of New Yorkers – 63% – say they would feel comfortable dining inside a restaurant once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Monday that the state will lift all restrictions on restaurants and other businesses once the vaccination rate reaches 70%.
Among parents of school-age children, 59% would feel comfortable sending their children to school once the restrictions are lifted.
Mayor Bill de Blasio has already announced that city schools will resume face-to-face learning in the fall.
Return to normality.
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Broadway shows will also return in the fall, but less than half of New Yorkers, 46%, would feel comfortable attending a Broadway show, according to our survey.
And even as the infection rate drops and the vaccination rate increases, New Yorkers plan to remain cautious. Only 37% said they were willing to go without a mask in an indoor public space.
“Concerns about crowds, prolonged indoor activities and going without a mask, I think it’s still too long a bridge for a lot of people,” Newall said.
The NY1 / Ipsos survey has a credibility interval of +/- 2.4 percentage points.
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