Cablevision Systems Corp. is gunning for a state contract to build a high-speed wireless Internet network along two train lines in the New York metro area.
The diversified cable TV operator said Wednesday it submitted an expression of interest to the state of New York to provide Wi-Fi access for the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad. These trains connect New York City to Long Island and Connecticut.
Cablevision thus far has been putting Wi-Fi equipment on train stations and parking lots, not on the trains themselves. The MTA contract will let Cablevision add Wi-Fi to the trains, so commuters can access the Internet while the train is moving.
Cablevision said it will carry the cost of building the network for the state. The company's own Wi-Fi rollout is expected to cost $300 million when it's completed next year. The cable operator did not immediately provide the cost of the MTA contract.
Since they are doing this at no cost to the 2 railroads involved, it sounds like a good deal for commuters.
You ever see the price of a monthly ticket from Huntington to Penn Station lately? While they have me bent over, they might as well offer me a better wireless signal. -- "Honesty may be the best policy, but it's important to remember that apparently, by elimination, dishonesty is the second-best policy." - George Carlin
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