Commuters gain underground radio

New York based company Transit Wireless, which is majority-owned by Broadcast Australia, is launching, what is claimed to be, the first wireless voice and data service from six underground railway stations, in Chelsea.

Wireless voice and data communication capability has been installed as part of an initial pilot program, 10 months ahead of schedule, and will allow New York City subway users to make and receive calls, send tweets and receive e-mail underground.

The system’s E911 capability will also lead to increased safety with uninterrupted access to 911 and the ability for 911 dispatchers to know when a call is being placed at street level or underground, in the subway.

Service to the remaining 271 underground stations is expected within four years, with the next 30 stations on the west side of Manhattan, including Times Square, Herald Square and Columbus Circle expected to be online in the next 12 months.