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MTA New York City Transit (NYCT) has begun testing its new "Help Point" station communications system at two Manhattan subway stations along the Lexington Avenue line.

The "instant" communication system is designed to be highly visible and easy to use, enabling riders on the platform to have immediate access to the station booth and personnel at the Rail Control Center, NYCT officials said in a prepared statement. The system was created to help riders who have an emergency or need to ask for travel directions.

The units will pulse with a bright blue beacon light when in action, making it easy for first responders to notice when a rider needs assistance.

"These Help Points will make our subway system safer and easier to use, expanding access to assistance throughout stations in a way that wasn't possible before," said New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jay Walder.