Greater Boston Subway Stations Getting Improved Electronic Signage and PA Systems from ARINCApril 28, 2008Annapolis, Maryland—Boston Subway riders will soon find it much easier to see and hear announcements at subway stations in and around the city. Under recent competitive contract awards, ARINC Incorporated is installing improved public address systems and new high-legibility signs at most subway stations of the famed Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s “T” System. The all-new electronic LED platform signs were previewed at several MBTA stations in 2007. This year, the LED technology will be rolled out to 66 additional stations, along with new digital PA systems. The MBTA is installing the signs which are provided by ARINC. The new LED signage will be installed on station platforms and subway lobbies. Platform signs will be oriented perpendicular to the tracks for maximum visibility. Besides being easy to read, the new signs will offer better information, such as next-train announcements, customer services, and train-delay announcements. ARINC will also install enhanced information displays at Back Bay Station. These signs use LCD technology to provide MBTA patrons with important information such as the operational status of elevators and escalators on the system. They will also provide a way for authorities to broadcast “Amber Alerts” in case of child abductions. The new station PA systems, utilizing state-of-the-art digital processing and text-to-speech technology, deliver clearer and crisper audio to keep MBTA customers up to date on the status of the trains. “These new station signs and audio systems will give MBTA the means to provide its customers with a new and unrivaled level of customer service information,” stated Dave Morrissey, ARINC Vice President, Surface Transportation. “The systems will be a great benefit to all MBTA subway users—especially those with sight or hearing disabilities.” ARINC has supported the MBTA subway customer information program since receiving a control center audio system contract in 2006. After additional contract wins in 2007 and 2008, the company assembled a team of skilled local electrical contractors to carry out installation work this year and provide maintenance services for years to come. As the operator of the nation’s first subway system, the MBTA is making large strides in a 5-year program to increase the accessibility of its stations and services for all passengers. The new station signage and PA improvements on the subway are a part of the MBTA’s major infrastructure upgrade that includes extensive elevator, rail car, bus, and station improvements to enhance accessibility system-wide. ARINC Incorporated, a portfolio company of The Carlyle Group, provides communications, engineering and integration solutions for commercial, defense and government customers worldwide. Headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland with regional headquarters in London and Singapore, ARINC is ISO 9001:2000 certified. Release: 08-33 Brand Management & Communications |
Search News |