An extensive, industrial-style, subway clean-up is underway at Norwood’s 205th Street subway station, and will continue throughout the coming days. A professional team of about ten cleaners, suited in protective equipment and masks, began a major clean-up at the station on Jun. 29. The workers were seen getting into all the nooks and crannies in the ceiling and along the walls and stairs using a power spray, and various chemical agents.

 

Initially, because of hoses seen on the subway floor, some people thought that the station had been flooded by the heavy rain which fell late on the same evening, but workers explained that it was just cleaning equipment.

As the City prepares to enter Phase III of its reopening plan next Monday, Jul. 6, officials are anxious to reassure workers that travel by subway is safe and clean. Previously, feet marks were placed on the subway platforms to indicate to commuters that social distancing was required at all times, with mask-wearing also recommended. It remains to be seen if social distancing on the subways will be possible as more workers return to the City’s public transport systems under Phase III of the reopening plan.

 

One positive aspect of the shutdown since March, and enjoyed by most people who have continued to use the subway throughout the pandemic, has been the relatively empty cars, making it easier to find a seat and to practice social distancing inside the trains, as well as on the platforms.

 

 

 

A workman told Norwood News that the group are private contractors hired by the MTA and are gradually making their way around to a number of Bronx-based subway stations, including the Yankees Station stop. “Just trying to keep everyone safe,” he said.