Can't read TFA b/c paywall.

A low maximum speed is not what's responsible for the MTA's deteriorating service levels. The problems are mainly signal issues and train malfunctions[0]. To a lesser extent, track fires. This begets the question -- what good is a marginal top speed increase, if so many trains arent reaching their top speed anyways? At least 30% of the time during my rush-hour MTA commute, my train is crawling through the tunnel, well under its current maximum speed. Think tortoise and hare.

Also -- higher max speed might mean harder stops. [0] https://ny.curbed.com/2018/9/17/17869218/nyc-subway-signal-p...