Mobile Coverage on Washington Underground Railway to Be Upgraded

The underground railway in Washington DC will shortly allow mobile phones from multiple networks to be used on its services. Currently, only Verizon Wireless handsets work on the railway (since 1997), but a condition in a funding package requires that the infrastructure is opened up to any operator.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the Metro system can only have a US$1.5 billion upgrade funding package, if it "ensures that customers of the rail service of the Transit Authority have access within the rail system to services provided by any licensed wireless provide." The amendment was proposed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Rep. Henry Waxman.

The funding bill requires multiple operator coverage in at least 20 Metro stations in one year, and the others within four years. Rep. Tom Davis, who introduced the $1.5 billion funding bill for the "teetering" Metro system, cosponsored the amendment.

In a statement, CTIA CEO, Steve Largent said "One of the hallmarks of our nationĂ's capital is the public transportation system, Metrorail.   Due to the unwavering efforts of Congress, millions of wireless users will soon be able to enjoy the convenience and safety of using their wireless device on the Metro."

"History shows that fierce competition among providers will tenaciously follow wireless service wherever it goes,"

"There is still much to be done, but this is a big step forward," said Metro Board Chairman Christopher Zimmerman. "This is an important element in the new partnership that we must establish to meet the large and growing mobility needs of the national capital region, both for the federal government and the people of Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia."

The funding bill will now be sent to the president.

Posted to the site on 3rd October 2008