Launched in late 2023, the Vacant Unit Activation Program aims to fill vacant former retail units in the subway system with creative non-traditional uses, such as art installations or cultural programming that can make currently underutilized spaces more vibrant.
As demand for retail space has evolved in recent years, these units have experienced vacancy because their size limitations, shape, or location, make them challenging for revenue-generating businesses to utilize them for traditional retail. The program is intended to encourage visually appealing and engaging uses to make stations more welcoming and whimsical spaces for riders.
If you are a nonprofit, community, or arts organization and would be interested in operating a unit, reach out to mtare@mtahq.org.
Please note: The Vacant Unit Activation Program opportunity is an MTA Real Estate initiative. Artists and organizations working within the vacant retail units do so by license with the MTA. MTA Arts & Design has an advisory role in this initiative. Vacant Unit Activation programming is not managed by MTA Arts & Design and installations within these spaces are not part of the MTA Arts & Design program.
Vacant units available for activation
The MTA is not charging rent for these units. Interested entities will be required to submit an activation proposal, pass a background check, acquire insurance, and sign a license agreement prior to use. The MTA reserves the right to select proposals that closest meet the intent of the program.
If you are a nonprofit, community, or arts organization and would be interested in operating a unit, reach out to mtare@mtahq.org.