Transit Wireless and Verizon finalized an agreement to bring Verizon’s 3G and 4G LTE wireless voice and data service to Transit Wireless’ state-of-the art wireless network in the New York City subway system.

Verizon will begin to install their equipment in Transit Wireless’ secure Base Station Hotel facilities over the next several weeks and Verizon Wireless customers can expect to start receiving service in the 36 stations already online in mid-town Manhattan and Chelsea later this year.

“Bringing wireless service into the New York City subway has been a big step forward for our customers, and we’re pleased that even more of them will be able to take advantage of it,” said Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman/CEO Thomas F. Prendergast. “The ability to make and receive phone calls underground is an important improvement for safety and security as well as convenience, and our customers will certainly appreciate it.”

The company will next participate in Phase 2 of the project, which comprises 40 new stations, including Grand Central Station, 34th St. Herald Square and Bryant Park in mid-town Manhattan and stations throughout the Borough of Queens.

Phase 2 is expected to be completed in early 2014.