Now that cell phone service in the city's subway platforms seems like it will really will happen, the Post reveals that the service will also help authorities track down 911 callers underground. Since the subway system's amplifiers installed underground will be covering a much smaller area than, say, abovegruond amplifiers, callers can be located to the exact platform and end of platform!
Interesting fact: Back in 1991, NY State added a surcharge on cellphone bills to pay for the aboveground amplifier system to be upgraded and to give authorities a better chance at identifying where wireless 911 callers are located. Of course, the state diverted that money to the "General Fund" (that's the black hole where our transit tax goes too!) But it was only in 2006 that the city "upgraded to enhanced location capabilities known as Phase 2," with a contract being awarded to Verizon this year.
Senator Chuck Schumer told the Post, "This is something that should have been resolved years ago. If your cellphone can be located in the bowels of the subway, there is no reason we can't do it above ground, too... The feds and the cellphone companies need to get this program up and running as soon as possible." Wow - might this be the first time that the MTA is trailblazing?
