MTA begins inspection blitz of elevated tracks after more falling debris in Queens
OZONE PARK, Queens (WABC) -- The MTA says they are going to be doing more inspections of the baskets under the elevated subway tracks.
Transit President Andy Byford says he is taking the inspections very seriously and he's very sorry for the most recent incident.
A livery cab driver in Queens had some frightening moments Tuesday when her car was struck by falling debris.
MTA crew members responded to the scene to investigate the incident. Byford said the debris fell into a wire basket that was designed to hold it, but did not.
It is the latest of eight incidents of debris falling from elevated subway tracks in New York City this year.
Byford said additional inspections will be done on all 60 miles of elevated tracks in the city and more than 2 million parts.
"Hand check every basket, not just a visual check," said Byford. "They will put hands on the basket. They will check that it's in the right alignment."
Additional netting is also being installed in four locations.
"One piece of debris falling off the overhead is one piece too many," said Byford. "We recognize the danger that presents. We are determined to cut this out."
After his own close call, Olivencia welcomes the increased inspections. "God bless that nobody got hurt, honestly," he said.
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