Enabling Cellphones on Boston's Underground Railway

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has granted a license to InSite Wireless for the right to install, operate, and maintain an underground neutral wireless communication network within the MBTA's subway system. Under the terms of the 15-year license, the MBTA is guaranteed minimum fees totaling nearly US$4 million. Five firms had competed for the contract.

The project, to be introduced in phases, begins at the subway platforms at Park Street, Downtown Crossing, Government Center, and State Street, and includes the tunnels connecting those stations. Once installed, the system will provide subway passengers with the ability to mobile phones and PDA's on the network provided the cellular network leases capacity on the system. The license also includes the right to expand the wireless network to other stations and tunnels... a move that would generate additional non-fare revenue for the MBTA.

"Enhanced communication within the T system is not just a matter of convenience for customers," said Transportation Secretary Daniel A. Grabauskas. "It also has a critical public security aspect to it, as passengers will have increased ability to report safety issue to the appropriate personnel."

MBTA General Manager Michael H. Mulhern also pointed out that the wireless network project was a key recommendation made by the MBTA's Anti-Terrorism Task Force. "This technology provides an additional measure of security for commuters who will be able to report safety-related matters or other concerns while waiting on station platforms or riding in the trains," said Mulhern.

Hundreds of thousands of riders travel through the core of the MBTA subway system each weekday."

Posted to the site on 14th February 2005