New York port authority brings Verizon service to PATH system

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) announced this week that Verizon cellular service now is available at New York platforms and underground stations on Port Authority Trans-Hudson's (PATH) system.

Verizon's connectivity — reached ahead of schedule — makes it the third major cellular service provider available to New York PATH riders, joining AT&T and T-Mobile, PANYNJ officials said in a press release. The three carriers have provided service at all New Jersey stations since mid-November.

Sprint service is expected to begin in early 2019 at PATH platforms and underground stations.

"Providing better service to the traveling public at all of our facilities is a priority," said PANYNJ Executive Director Rick Cotton. "Our customers expect and deserve the best service we can provide, and cellular service in all PATH underground stations represents an important contribution to our customer service objectives."

In addition to expanding cell service as part of its renewed emphasis on customer service programs, PANYNJ is pursuing better station communications. PATH has begun testing countdown clocks at its stations that will inform riders when the next train will arrive, PANYNJ officials said.