Letter on Deteriorating Conditions of West 4th Street Station

Dear Mr. Lieber: 

I am writing to alert you to the deteriorating conditions at the West 4th Street - Washington Square station in Manhattan which serves many of my constituents. Fare evasion, intravenous drug use and unhoused people in need of assistance are among the top concerns making people feel unsafe. 

One constituent described the station as an “overall incredibly menacing environment.” As a frequent user of the West 4th Street station, I strongly confirm this sentiment. 

I need not tell you that as the transit hub of the West Village, this station is one of the highest-traffic stations in the city, serving nine lines and millions of people each year. It serves residents, parents, children, students, tourists and many others who visit, live and work in this popular neighborhood. Surrounding retail stores have also reported that this impacts their businesses, deterring customers from shopping and employees from working. 

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I commend you for your leadership and ongoing efforts to ensure our transit system is safe and accessible for everyone. 

Sincerely yours, 

Brad Hoylman-Sigal, State Senator - 47th District