You Can Now Connect to Cellular and Wifi Service on the Subway in New York
Cellphone coverage in underground subway stations in New York City are available a year ahead of schedule, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced this week, will support from all four major carriers.
Wifi has also been successfully installed at the stations.
“By bringing wifi and cell service underground ahead of schedule, we are reimagining our subway stations to meet the needs of the next generation,” Governor Cuomo said. “This will better connect New Yorkers who are on-the-go and build on our vision to reimagine the country’s busiest transportation network for the future. I thank all of our partners.”
The construction of the wireless, wifi and public safety network began in 2011 with the connection of six underground stations in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, and was slated for completion in 2018. However, at the direction of Governor Cuomo, the process was accelerated. The project was built at no cost to taxpayers or subway riders.
“As of Monday our customers can text or call from our underground stations, staying in touch with their families, keeping up with work, and staying connected,” New York City Transit President Veronique Hakim said.
The project, which cost $300 million, includes 120 miles of fiber optic cables and 5,000 wifi access points.