DC Metrorail Expands Cell Phone Coverage
Tuesday, October 20th, 2009
Written by: Shadeed Eleazer
The DC Metro area public transportation rail system known as the Metrorail has implemented a long-awaited expansion of cell phone service via Verizon. The expansion will service 20 of the busiest Metro platforms.
What if I have a carrier other than Verizon?
Metro patrons who use T-Mobile, Sprint Nextel, and AT&T will be able to surf the Web, text, and make outgoing calls from the approved 20 platforms. The caveat is that the service will be available only on the platforms but once a rider boards the train or inside the tunnel, the reception will be lost.
The Plan for Expansion
Service is expected to expand to cover the entire station for the initial 20 pilot stations. By the close of November 09, the expectations are to have coverage from the surrounding street down to the platform. Fall 2010 should include the remaining 27 stations with the initial wiring.
Full underground coverage is not planned to happen until fall 2012.
