METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

CTA system will allow cell phone use in subways

The communications system will also enhance the CTA's existing two-way radio system.

March 10, 2003
1 min to read


The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will install a wireless communications system in its subway tunnels, underground stations and station passageways. The system will allow CTA to contract use of the Subway Wireless Telecommunications System to Chicago-area wireless service providers. That would allow customers to use cell phones, e-mail, wireless Internet, paging and text messaging throughout the CTA's 11.4-mile subway system. The communications system will also enhance the CTA's existing two-way radio system and improve redundant subway communication options for CTA, Chicago Police Department and Chicago Fire Department/EMS personnel. Work on the project will begin in the spring and last about 18 months. During the first phase, radio transmitters, receivers and antennae will be installed and interconnected with existing fiber optic cable to enable voice and data connection services. The CTA does not anticipate service interruptions during installation. For more on the project, go to the CTA's Website at www.transitchicago.com.

Topics:Rail

More Rail

METRO Biz Briefs cover photo

STV Launches Power Practice and More in Biz Briefs

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from SilverRide, Complete Coach Works, and more.

Read More →
Local, Federal, State, and LA Metro officials at the opening of the D Line.
Railby StaffMay 10, 2026

LA Metro Opens D Line Extension

The only new subway opening in the US this year, the D Line Extension represents one of Metro’s top transit priorities and a historic milestone for Los Angeles, with Sections 2 and 3 set to open in 2027.

Read More →
Governor Moore in a ceremony placing the last track
Railby StaffMay 8, 2026

Maryland Governor Installs Final Purple Line Rail During Tour

The moment marks the completion of 193,100 feet of track linking Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
PATCO's New Control Center
Managementby StaffMay 7, 2026

PATCO Opens New Operations Control Center

The new center serves as the central hub for monitoring and managing PATCO train operations, communications, customer service coordination, incident response, and overall operational oversight across the transit system.

Read More →
VIA Rail Canada logo
Railby StaffMay 7, 2026

VIA Rail reports Stable Ridership, Rising Revenue Amid Ongoing Challenges

Despite these pressures, VIA Rail is reporting that total revenues increased to $514.8 million as more travelers took advantage of the wide range of options available through the corporation’s new reservation system.

Read More →
SEPTA's advertisement for multi-rider feature.
Technologyby StaffMay 7, 2026

Philadelphia's SEPTA Introduces Multi-Rider Feature for Contactless Payments

Up until now, this feature was only available when using a SEPTA Key card.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A Waev Gem vehicle with a ramp deployed.

ABC Teams with Waev, Knorr-Bremse in Boston Top Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
Books with graduation mortar board
Managementby StaffMay 6, 2026

New Chicago Scholarship Program Targets Student Pathways to Construction Careers

Created in partnership with Walsh-VINCI Transit Community Partners, the contractor for CTA’s historic $5.7 billion RLE project, the new $250,000 scholarship program will provide three students a year from 2026 to 2030 with $3,000 scholarships.

Read More →
Steve Goodreau
Technologyby Alex RomanMay 6, 2026

Trackless Rapid Transit: Hype or Viable Option?

Steve Goodreau of WSP explores the technology’s promise, limitations and where it may fit in the evolving transit landscape.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Operation Lifesaver Rail Safety Education logo over railroad tracks background, representing rail safety awareness initiatives.
Railby News/Media ReleaseMay 4, 2026

Operation Lifesaver Awards Rail Safety Outreach Funds in 12 States

Operation Lifesaver awarded $220,200 in grants to 12 states to support rail safety campaigns focused on grade crossing awareness and trespass prevention.

Read More →