MTA Unveils New NYC Subway Map, First Since 1979

NEW YORK CITY — The MTA on Wednesday unveiled a new reimagined subway map for the first time since 1979.

The new map simplifies riders' primary way finding asset while providing the most essential travel information in an easily readable, bright, bold, and orderly manner, officials said.

The new map is much easier to read and more suitable for digital users. The white background, bold colors, horizontal writing and use of black dots make the map more ADA-friendly and easier for persons with visual limitations and cognitive disabilities to read.

The legend on the map is now more detailed and includes accessibility, transfer, and safety information, as well as a QR code that leads users to the MTA website.

Although this map is a new design, the creative team drew inspiration from previous maps including:

• Preserving the official brand colors established by the 1979 and 1998 Hertz maps
• Using a similar geometric and diagrammatic aesthetic introduced to the New York City Subway with the 1972 Vignelli diagram and revived by its successors, Waterhouse Cifuentes

“The new MTA is focused on a quality, 21st century customer experience, and it's about time our map caught up,” MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said. “The new version is much easier to read while also reflecting all the enhancements we’ve made over the years.”

Replacing physical maps in the remaining subway cars will be done in phases over the coming weeks.

“The subway map is both an iconic symbol of New York and a tool that everyday riders and first-time users of our system use to get around,” New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said. “This modern redesign makes it easier to navigate the system – especially during service changes – and has a quintessential New York look that riders will appreciate for years to come.”

The new subway map for weekdays, late nights, and weekends is already displayed on station digital screens and soon will be onboard R211 cars.

New additions to the maps include the 2nd Avenue Subway, the F train stop on Roosevelt Island and the 7-line extension.