By: centraljersey.com
WEST WINDSOR – NJ Transit wants to give riders access to more than public transportation.
Last week, NJ Transit announced that it is seeking a company to provide wireless broadband internet service at rail stations such as the Princeton Junction Train Station and aboard trains.
"This is basically a way of offering another customer amenity," said NJ transit spokeswoman Courtney Carroll. "It’s about enhancing the customer experience while onboard the train. It’s something customers are interested in and people may wish to stay connected, so this is a way for us to start offering that."
According to NJ Transit, a Wi-Fi network across the rail system would allow access to most internet applications, including web browsing, e-mail, Virtual Private Network applications, file uploads and downloads, and video and audio streaming.
The selected provider will be responsible for the design and architecture of the system, including a list of materials, software, functionality of each module and all connections between system components as well as an implementation schedule.
"The provision of wireless internet service would be a welcome amenity for our customers, enabling those who wish to remain connected and productive during their commute to do so continuously," said Executive Director James Weinstein. "We hope to receive responses from qualified wireless service providers to advance our plan to bring the Internet aboard NJ Transit trains in the near future."
In other NJ Transit business, Tuesday marked the beginning of a 90-day pilot program for "quiet cars" at Princeton Junction, Hamilton, and Trenton stations.
On weekdays, customers in the first and last cars of the trains will be asked to refrain from using cell phones, disable sound on or use headphones with electronic devices, and keep the volume of conversations low. Cards will be distributed to explain the rules in both Spanish and English.
Customers will be able to leave feedback at www.njtransit.com, and the opinions they submit will help NJ Transit decide whether or not to make the change permanent.
As for the wireless network, Ms. Carroll said NJ Transit hopes to award a bid by the end of the year, and that a price tag will be set as the project moves ahead.

