MBTA adding Wi-Fi on commuter rail system
At absolutely no cost to the MBTA or its customers, inMOTION Wireless Inc. will build a $5.6 million system that will expand and improve both the availability and quality of the existing Wi-Fi service.
John Phelan
Under a new license agreement, a state-of-the-art Wi-Fi system will be installed throughout Boston-based Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) network of 14 Commuter Rail lines.
At absolutely no cost to the MBTA or its customers, inMOTION Wireless Inc. will build a $5.6 million system that will expand and improve both the availability and quality of the existing Wi-Fi service. The new Wi-Fi service will also be provided on MBTA Commuter Boats and South, North and Back Bay Stations.
“This is a very exciting time for our Commuter Rail system,” said GM Beverly Scott. “While the introduction of new locomotives and new coaches will continue to improve on-time performance rates, customer service initiatives like Wi-Fi and eTicketing make the overall commuting experience an even better one.”
Under a 22-year license agreement, inMOTION will install, operate, and maintain a neutral, private, and dedicated Wi-Fi network on all MBTA passenger coaches and ferries. MBTA customers will have free access to the Internet, as well as a live television feed. Premium Wi-Fi service, which allows customers to stream data and video, will be available for a fee of $15 per month.
The MBTA will receive 7.5% of net revenue received from the Wi-Fi program.
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