Some Major Causes of Congestion in Subway Stations

Abstract

This study investigated pedestrian movement in several New York City subway stations. The study was initiated by the Urban Design Group of the New York City Planning Commission, whose primary concern was centered around specific elements and configurations of subways in need of renovation. The study was undertaken by a group of researchers in the Environmental Psychology Program of the City University of New York. The investigators, assisted by several graduate students, decided to focus on stairs and escalators, seating on platforms, entries and exits, and types of platforms. Each of these variables was studied in terms of its effect upon pedestrian flow.