Transit Wireless announced its network expansion partnership with the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will double the size of Transit Wireless’ 5G fiber network including 418 track miles and up to 20 separate river crossings, according to the company's news release.

The neutral host provider will expand its fiber connectivity designed and built for carrier-grade 5G cellular service, small cell deployment, roaming services, and network edge colocation.

The network will be designed to support over 10 million users per day and allow mobile network operators to offer their customers enhanced data and voice service underground and throughout the entire NYC subway.

“Our partnership with the MTA will result in a significant network extension of fiber route, diversity, and overall capacity,” said Melinda White, Transit Wireless CEO. “The project will deliver seamless reach for all major cellular carriers to provide riders with enhanced coverage underground and throughout their journey across the New York City subway system. We will also deliver a carrier-grade network for private enterprises.”

The expanded fiber system extends the network to private businesses, universities, hospitals, and commercial properties. Access to part of the network is available.

The network investment by Transit Wireless to build the necessary infrastructure is in process, with the planning and design phases already underway.

“In addition to a 5G neutral host network, the project includes expansion of the Wi-Fi network to all 191 above-ground subway and 21 Staten Island Railway stations,” said Fredericka Cuenca, deputy chief development officer at the MTA.

The network (TransitWirelessWiFi) is free to the public and is currently available at all 281 underground subway stations.

“As part of this project, areas where the connectivity infrastructure needs an upgrade, we will see new, dedicated communications networks,” said White. “By bringing high-speed connectivity to underserviced subway lines and platforms, we are able to further address the inequities of digital service delivery throughout the system,” she concludes.

The communications expansion within the New York City subway system builds upon the existing connected infrastructure capabilities for the BAI Communications company.

“This project is a landmark achievement for us, and we are honored to invest in New York’s future as we advance the company’s vision to become a leading provider of connected 5G infrastructure across North America and globally,” said Igor Leprince, CEO of BAI Communications. “From the subway to above ground, the expanded network will further the reach of our current solutions, delivering an enhanced experience at all points of a user’s journey.”