NEW YORK — The Wall Street Journal reported James Murphy, frontman of the now-defunct LCD Soundsystem, has launched Subway Symphony, a proposed project intended to replace the “unpleasant beep” heard when riders swipe their MetroCard with a more soothing sound. Each subway station would get its own sound.
Murphy has been working on his alternative sounds for the past 15 years. He is a “subway geek” who is “generally happy” with New York’s subway service.
MTA spokesman Adam Lisberg told the paper that while the plan “is a very cool idea,” it may be costly and time-consuming to put into practice. For the full story, click here.
Murphy is petitioning the New York Metropolitan Transit Authority to let him complete the project, according to The Wire. For the full story, click here.
Musician aims to make fare collection 'beep' sound more pleasant
James Murphy, frontman of the now-defunct LCD Soundsystem, has launched Subway Symphony, a proposed project intended to replace the “unpleasant beep” heard when riders swipe their MetroCard with a more soothing sound.
More Rail
Penn Transformation Partners Named as Master Developer Team for New York Penn Station Renovation
The team of Halmar and Skanska will build a brand-new station that will provide daily commuters and tourists with a more seamless travel experience through a vibrant gateway into America’s largest city, said Amtrak.
Read More →
REM West Island Extension Opens, Expanding Montreal Automated Rail Network
The expansion adds four stations and extends Montreal’s automated REM network deeper into the region with a new all-electric transit service.
Read More →
People Movement: Montoya to Lead Delaware, Andreski Extended in Fort Worth, and More
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at Trinity Metro, SilverRide, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
Read More →
California's OCTA Proposes 2026-27 Balanced Budget to Advance Transportation
The proposed budget, totaling approximately $2 billion, advances key transportation initiatives while ensuring all services, programs, and projects can be delivered to residents not only next year but well into the future.
Read More →
KC Streetcar Expansion Strengthens Access to City’s Growing Riverfront
The project adds 0.7 miles of track to the existing KC Streetcar line, connecting north from the River Market to Berkley Riverfront Park.
Read More →
First Amtrak Cascades Airo Trainset Arrives in Pacific Northwest for Final Testing
Take a closer look at the next generation of Amtrak Cascades service as the first Airo trainset prepares for passenger operations in the Pacific Northwest.
Read More →
Boston's MBTA Completes Latest Green Line Work
The work took place during 12 consecutive days of shuttle bus service replacement between Kenmore and Cleveland Circle.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: King County Metro Taps Schunk Transit Systems for Charging and More
Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.
Read More →
New York MTA's Hugh L. Carey Tunnel Lands ASCE Landmark Status
The Hugh L. Carey Tunnel is the fourth MTA-owned property to be granted landmark status by the ASCE.
Read More →
Managing Complexity: HDR’s Brian Buchanan on Delivering Major Transit Programs
HDR’s transit program management lead discusses the challenges of overseeing large capital projects, adapting to cost and supply chain pressures, and the capabilities agencies need to build for the future.
Read More →