MTA spends millions on countdown clocks

The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) is going to continue their multi-million dollar plan to install more subway countdown clocks throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn.

The purpose of the countdown clocks also known as, Public Address Customer Information Screens (PA/CIS), is to let commuters know when their next train is coming.

The clocks will be able to countdown how much longer the wait will be for the next train and can convey this information both visually and audibly. The system also allows NYC Transit to provide service delay messages and emergency information to customers.

Although this technology has been in place for years in London, it only made its debut in NYC in 2007. The L line was the first to be outfitted with the clocks, with 24 stations now equipped with the new technology.

Next on the list are five stations along the Pelham 6 line including Brook Ave., Cypress Ave., E.143rd St.-St. Mary’s St., E.149th St and Longwood Ave.

By the end of 2010, the MTA is planning to have between 100-150 numbered stations up and running with the clocks and to have all of the remaining numbered station lines completed by the end of 2011.

The millions of commuters who take the letter lines will have to wait until 2014 until they see any clocks being installed. Those who travel north of 149th St. and the Grand Concourse will have to wait until 2016.

Although progress seems to be very slow in the subways, many bus shelters throughout Manhattan and the Bronx already have the countdown clocks installed, which can help the millions of commuters above ground.

Many riders are anxiously awaiting the digital devices to come to a subway near them. Sonya Hua of Manhattan stated, “I am thrilled about the clocks. They will make me less frustrated because I will know when to expect the next train.”

When it comes to numbers, however, many commuters feel less then enthused about the $213 million that will be spent on the signaling system that allows the trains to be tracked by computers and the $171 million that will be spent on readout displays and digital public address systems.

John DiAmico of Brooklyn stated, “In light of the recent proposals for fare hikes, I don’t think that the MTA is properly allocating its money.”

 This year the MTA hit a $400 million dollar deficit. As a result, there have been many service cuts, with less trains running midday, late nights and weekends. A new payroll tax as well as job cuts for hundreds of MTA employees and a planned 7.5 percent increase is fares for 2011 is in place.

 The MTA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jay Walder supports their new system stating, “studies show riders in London [subways] felt three times worse waiting when they didn't know how long the delay would be.”

Regardless of opinion, the city is moving forward with their plans for installing the clocks throughout subways stations. As for the rest of us, we are all just going to have to go along for the ride, however long the wait time.