Hope you like G train shuttles on weekends!
A report from an independent engineering consulting firm shared with MTA higher-ups concluded that several projects, including the ongoing G train signal project, are currently very behind schedule.
The project, which is typically described on platform signage as “modernizing signals,” aims to improve communication through 5G implementation for communications-based train control (frequently shortened to CBTC, which refers to the signaling). Work on CBTC prompted a summer-long G train shutdown last year, and current weekend and night shutdowns through mid-August.
The reported noted that “the contractor for [the G line] project has advanced its design of the CBTC Centric system, is progressing track construction work on schedule, and recently met the FCC deadline to demonstrate the use of the 5G frequency.”
However, it also cited delays in signal block designs from the contractor, equipping cars with 5G, providing seamless interfaces, and integrating the Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) subsystem with 5G—three of which require third-party contracts.
“It’s like having a cell phone from the year 2000. We all know that we can’t use that anymore. So we’re upgrading all of the technology over time, but we made sure that we’re getting it first on the G train,” MTA’s President of Construction and Development, Jamie Torres-Springer, said about getting the line’s new cars up to speed (pun semi-intended) with the new internet rather than equipped with 4G.
According to the analysis, the project is now reported to be two years behind schedule and forecast for a July 2029 completion date.
The $368 million contract for the signal upgrades was awarded to Crosstown Partners, a joint venture of Thales and TC Electric (TCE), in 2023. The budget is currently at $624 million and consultants estimate it will reach $715 million at completion.
Where are te penalties for these “design companies” and contractors who fail to provide what they promise and cause us to incur increased costs – as well as economic and travel pain & problems for so many residents and businesses all alomg the G train route? Why is no one held responsible? Why are riders left holding the bag and suffering the consequences? And now, despite the promise “benefits” of the congestion pricing tax on New Yorkers, the MTA has the gall to raise transit fares once again. What a scam. They use & abuse us as like ATM cash machine and the run off laughing to the bank.
My thoughts exactly. Glad I’m moving out of Greenpoint in the fall so I don’t have to deal with this anymore (ie use the G). It’s gotten ridiculous.
The G train has been and always will be the runt of the MTA subway system. You think the G train is bad now, you should have seen it 25 years ago.