Veteran MTA Train Operator Simona Ballard, a Brooklyn native with over a decade of experience keeping New York’s subway system running, is speaking out about the urgent need for better safety protections for transit workers and increased public awareness of the challenges they face.

“Every day, thousands of MTA employees step into a fast-paced, unpredictable environment to move millions of people across the city,” Ballard says. “We do it because we believe in this city. But we also need this city to believe in keeping us safe.”

The Numbers Behind the Concern

According to the MTA, New York City’s subway system moves over 3.6 million riders per weekday. Yet, transit workers continue to face rising incidents of harassment, assaults, and hazardous conditions. In 2023, reported assaults against transit workers increased by 39% compared to the previous year.

Ballard, who began her career as a conductor before becoming a train operator, says the statistics reflect what many in the industry already know: the pressure and risks have been growing. “We’re not just operating trains,” she explains. “We’re de-escalating conflicts, responding to emergencies, and navigating unpredictable situations — all while making sure the system keeps moving.”

Advocating for Practical, Immediate Solutions

Ballard is urging the city, the MTA, and the public to take simple but effective steps:

• Increase staffing at key stations during peak hours.

• Improve training for responding to on-board incidents.

• Encourage public participation in maintaining respectful, safe environments.

“Not all safety improvements need to cost millions,” Ballard notes. “A rider who chooses patience over confrontation is already helping make the subway safer for everyone.”

The Human Side of the Job

Ballard’s message is rooted in her own experiences on the tracks. She recalls a time when her train lost power in a tunnel, leaving passengers anxious and frustrated. “People were scared, and my job was to keep them calm,” she says. “That’s when you realize — the work is as much about people as it is about trains.”

She also emphasizes the mental load of the role. “Operating a train for hours at a time isn’t just physically demanding — it’s mentally exhausting. You’re constantly scanning for safety risks.”

How the Public Can Help

Ballard is encouraging New Yorkers to take small, immediate steps:

• Report unsafe or suspicious behavior to MTA staff or via the MTA app.

• Keep station platforms and train doors clear during boarding.

• Treat transit workers with respect and patience, especially during delays.

“These are everyday choices that anyone can make,” she says. “They may seem small, but together they create a safer environment for riders and workers.”

About Simona Ballard

Simona Ballard is an MTA Train Operator and graduate of the NYC Transit’s Rail Control Training Program. She has more than a decade of service in the New York City subway system and is an active advocate for transit worker safety through her local union.

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City: Brooklyn
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Website: https://www.simonaballard.com/