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    1. Technology
    2. Miscellaneous

    MTA, Transit Wireless bring cellular connectivity to Verizon customers in L train tunnel

    Nov. 30, 2020
    The project came at no cost to the MTA and customers are now able to connect to Verizon’s network while in the tunnel between Brooklyn and Manhattan.
    Related To: MTA – New York City Transit
    MTA
    Mta 5fc5274116d78

    The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) completed work to bring cellular voice and data connections to Verizon customers on the L tunnel under the East River.

    The MTA worked closely with Transit Wireless to launch full connectivity so that Verizon customers are now able to use their phones and other devices between 1 Av and Bedford Av on the L Subway line. This makes Verizon the second carrier in the under-river tunnel to receive cellular connectivity after AT&T was connected in September.

    "We took advantage of ongoing work in the area to improve our customers’ experience, and we intend to implement this same upgrade at other tunnels throughout the system," said MTA Construction & Development President Janno Lieber. "During the pandemic, we’ve accelerated a range of construction work so customers returning to the system see improvements. We're continuing to fight for more funding from the federal government so we can maintain the aggressive effort to rehabilitate and modernize the MTA system."

    “Transit Wireless is proud to expand our partnership with MTA and Verizon,” said Melinda White, CEO of Transit Wireless. “Enhanced wireless connectivity in the Canarsie Line Tunnel demonstrates the commitment Verizon has to its customers and MTA has to its riders.”

    The new connectivity comes at no cost to the MTA, with the authority also set to receive revenue from the service. Working with Transit Wireless, the MTA has rolled out broadband to all underground subway stations.

    The MTA continues to enhance its rider experience, with a focus on innovation and smart technology. The expansion in the L Subway Tunnel provides enhanced wireless connectivity for riders and lays the foundation for future 5G services. MTA recently launched the new digital "Live Subway Map,” a first-of-its-kind guide to navigating the subway system in real time. The new map allows riders to plan trips more easily by providing information about service changes and seeing train movements as they happen.