Chicago Transit Authority to get wireless upgrade

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will undergo a network modernization project under a $32.5 million deal brokered by the Chicago Infrastructure Trust with the nation's four major wireless providers.

The agreement will finance a wireless network upgrade to 4G coverage in all subway stations and tunnels to be completed by 2015's end, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced last week.

T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon and Sprint collectively have agreed to fund the entire upgrade related to the design and construction of a next-generation Distributed Antenna System (DAS) capable of supporting the latest 4G wireless networks and mobile devices.

"By adding 4G wireless service all throughout the CTA, we are bringing 21st century technology to every rider on every line of our 21st century transit system," said Emanuel said in a press release. "This is another way that we are investing in a modern CTA to encourage ridership, make Chicago more economically competitive, and open up more economic opportunities to more residents throughout the city."

The network upgrade, which began in January, will help improve first responder communications throughout the tunnel system, while also giving Chicago subway riders a faster mobile experience throughout their commutes.