NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — With the NBA Finals bringing big crowds and big money into the city, one viewer is asking how much public transit resources are being used to match the moment.
Ryle Davis contacted CBS 6 with concerns about spending by the MTA during the Finals, particularly around Knicks-related displays and service.
In a message, Davis wrote: “My question is simple: Who paid for all of this? I think the public deserves to know the total cost, including paint, materials, train wrap design and installation, labor, overtime, lighting, signage, special train service if any, communications staff time, and eventual removal or restoration costs.”
In response to questions about the spending, the MTA said it cost about $1,000 to paint the subway entrance outside Penn Station orange and blue.
The agency said that cost was recovered through fares paid by fans who used the subway to travel to and from not only Madison Square Garden, but also other locations for watch parties.
The MTA also said running extra train service is standard for big games and events in the city.
As for other Knicks-related creative work, including signage, the MTA said it was performed by in-house employees and is included in its existing facilities budget.