These two items can be found in almost all, of not all stations. The Info stand (I don't know it's formal name) holds maps, brochures and is used to display notices of events (such as the activation of MetroCard vending machines at this station) and/or notices of service alterations. The Johnson box is a holdover from the token-only era, whenever all turnstiles were out of service for one reason or another, this box was used to collect fares. Nowadays, the only time they're used is during construction detours, where passengers are given free bus transfers to get around the project. Upon re-entering the subway, they're often directed to deposit the transfer tickets into the box as they re-enter the system. The "Johnson Box" is usually chained to the fence seperating the paid and non-paid areas.
