AT&T, State Collaboration Boosts Metro North Wireless Service

Commuters traveling the Metro North New Haven Line are better connected thanks to a public-private partnership that upgraded wireless internet service.

New infrastructure, including a combination of high-powered macro towers and compact small cell nodes, has been installed at more than 30 sites between New Haven and the New York border.

Supported by a $6 million investment from AT&T, the project is significantly boosting the company’s telecommunications network and delivering faster, more reliable LTE and 5G service.

An additional five sites are expected to launch along the New Haven Line—the busiest rail corridor in the country—later this year.

The Metro North project is part of a broader Lamont administration initiative to improve cellular connectivity and accelerate the deployment of high-speed technology along Connecticut’s rail corridors.

‘Ahead of the Curve’

Speaking at an April 28 press conference at Stamford’s train station, Gov. Ned Lamont said he appreciated the partnership with AT&T.

“Expanding the availability of high-speed networks is critical if we want to be ahead of the curve on technology that makes our state even more attractive to workers and employers,” he said.

“By partnering with telecommunications companies and allowing them to install their equipment on state properties, we can expand high-speed service to more areas and do so in a cost-effective manner.”

John Emra, president of AT&T’s Atlantic Region, said the Metro North project “became a reality because Gov. Lamont and his team identified a need and spurred industry to action.”

“Dramatically improved coverage and capacity makes for more productive and enjoyable train experiences and further help make our state a leader in wireless technology,” he said.

“We’re grateful to be part of this ongoing effort to create a modern, connected and cutting-edge Connecticut.”

Commuter Priority

Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto noted that the agency’s outreach efforts identified wireless connectivity as a key issue for commuters.

“We have heard directly from riders that enhanced wireless connectivity is one of the most requested upgrades, and this initiative delivers on exactly that,” he said.

“We know from national trends that better onboard service, including reliable wireless service, boosts ridership, and we’re aiming to replicate that success here in Connecticut.”

“Better onboard service, including reliable wireless service, boosts ridership.”

DOT’s Garrett Eucalitto

CBIA’s Chris Davis welcomed the enhanced wireless service, citing the benefits to Metro North commuters.

“This is the kind of strategic economic development that will make Connecticut a technology leader,” he said.

“Better wireless service means more productivity for commuters, increasing the line’s appeal and the opportunity for economic growth from New Haven to the New York border.”

Many of the enhancements also support FirstNet, a nationwide communications platform for first responders and public safety workers.