Subway Station Wi-Fi Network

A NYCRC-managed entity provided a $75 million loan to help fund the construction of a public Wi-Fi network in all 275 underground subway stations in New York City.

The build out of the network allowed for full cell phone and Wi-Fi connectivity in all underground stations, enabling voice and data functions such as phone calls, text messages, emails, music, and video streaming. Approximately 10.5 million people access the subway system's Wi-Fi network each month. The loan was made to Transit Wireless, the company selected by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and the New York City Transit Authority to oversee the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Wi-Fi network.

The network also enables services that improve safety and security by allowing dispatchers to know when a call is being placed underground and the approximate location of the caller. MTA employees and first responders have the opportunity for enhanced communications capability in an emergency. The network is assisting MTA transit officers, New York City Police Department, and other New York City government entities better serve riders of the subway system.

“By bringing Wi-Fi and cell service underground ahead of schedule, we are reimagining our subway stations to meet the needs of the next generation. 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.”

– Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo