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TWU Creates New Art For Subway Slowdown Campaign

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - The union representing transit workers wants them to slow down the speed of subway trains as they enter stations, and they're taking action, graphically.

The chalk outline of a person on the tracks and the words "Slow Down Over Your Dead Body" are now part of the campaign and clearly meant for attention.

The campaign comes in the wake of two recent subway track deaths.

Paul, a man who was waiting for an early morning 1 train, had plenty to give.

"They're just doing their job and they're keeping us safe," he told WCBS 880 reporter Alex Silverman.

His train's motorman didn't care to follow the Transport Workers Union order to slow down and honk on the way in.

TWU Creates New Art For Subway Slowdown Campaign

"I do get worried cause the trains come in so fast," said Deborah, who was visiting from Alaska.

The MTA has said it thinks the TWU is just trying to draw attention to their contract negotiations.

A straphanger named Mark told Silverman that safety is important, but he doesn't want to be caught in the middle of a labor fight on his way to work.

"Two cases of some crazy people doesn't warrant millions of people's lives changing," he said.

"I think it's a silly reaction and I don't mean to belittle anyone or minimize any deaths, but efficiency is an important thing, I believe," said another straphanger.

In red letters, the TWU says "The MTA doesn't care if you die."

Judging from how often you hear, "Please stand away from the platform edge," it might be a bit of an exaggeration, which the union's flyer goes on to admit.

Do you think subway trains should slow down when entering stations? Sound off below.

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