Following the launch of Wi-Fi coverage at two stations last year, the Toronto Transit Commission yesterday announced that expansion of the program is now underway. The Bay station has now joined the original two stations, Bloor-Yonge and St.George, in offering wireless Internet service. The TTC also outlined its plans for further expansion.
Work is now underway to bring wireless service to Wellesley, College, Dundas and Union stations. By the time the Toronto Pan/Parapan Am Games start in July 2015, some 18 stations encompassing the lower loop plus Spadina station will have access to TCONNECT, BAI Canada’s free to the public, sponsored Wi-Fi service.
“We are excited to announce this next stage of our work with the TTC, adding wireless infrastructure to 14 additional stations by March 2015,” said Ken Ranger, CEO, BAI Canada. “Our shared Wi-Fi and cellular infrastructure is robust and reliable, and allows riders to get more value for the time they spend within the underground subway system.”
Since its launch late last year, TCONNECT has been used by more than 200,000 unique users more than 1.5 million times. In June alone, TTC riders used more than three terabytes of data.
The current schedule will see the following stations get coverage:
- Wellesley – September 2014
- College – September 2014
- Union – October 2014
- Dundas – October 2014
- Queen – November 2014
- King – November 2014
- Spadina – December 2014
- St Andrew – January 2015
- Osgoode – January 2015
- St Patrick – February 2015
- Queen’s Park – February 2015
- Museum – March 2015
The network is also cellular-capable and “ready for the GTA’s cellular operators to join the network.”
The current Wi-Fi coverage extends to all public areas of all subway stations, including platforms, mezzanines, walkways and stairwells. A second phase of the project will extend the cellular network to the TTC tunnels.
Source : Toronto Transit Commission