Metro

Front-facing ads debut on NYC MetroCards

New York’s transit agency is introducing MetroCards with a new look.

Starting Sunday, some MetroCards sold at New York City subway stations will sport advertising on the front of the card.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority says the MetroCards are the first in more than 15 years to feature anything other than the familiar gold design with blue lettering spelling “MetroCard.”

The ad appearing on the new cards was purchased by the Gap and reads: “Be Bright NYC.” The cards with Gap ads will be sold at 10 Manhattan subway stations.

MTA Chairman Joseph Lhota said the agency will monitor public acceptance of the advertising to ensure that it doesn’t “interfere with use of the transit system.”

Lhota said the MTA must put every resource it can toward bolstering its finances.