Metro North White Plains Station Renewed
Commuters in the White Plains area of Westchester County can rejoice as the Metro-North White Plains station has been fully renewed. The piece of shit governor of New York announced it today Here is more via the press release I received from the MTA:
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the full-scale $95 million renewal of MTA Metro-North Railroad’s station in downtown White Plains, which has transformed the station into a state-of-the art complex. The renovation began in 2018 as part of Metro-North’s Station Improvement Initiative to bring a more customer friendly atmosphere for commuters.
The top-to-bottom station transformation included a refurbishment of the station’s main entrance at the station plaza, the Main Street entrance, the Hamilton Avenue entrance, and the Mott Street tunnel. The station was remodeled to bring an updated, modern aesthetic to the station, including updated signage, glass entrances, wood soffits, a widened main lobby, improved lighting and upgraded HVAC system. The side and island platforms were extended to increase capacity as more commuters return to the system.
“Upgrading our transportation hubs to meet the demands of the 21st century is fueling the economic comeback that we need today and will help keep New York’s economy competitive in the future,” Governor Hochul said. “The renovated station in White Plains is a prime example of this commitment and with these enhancements now complete, commuters and visitors will have access to a safer, world-class travel experience.”
“Mass transit is the backbone of our economy as people continue their return to the workplace, and large-scale projects to fortify our infrastructure will help New Yorkers return to the rails,” said Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin. “Metro-North is a key connector for Westchester County residents to get to New York City, which is why upgrading key commuter rail hubs like White Plains will allow us to keep that economic recovery on track.”
Janno Lieber, MTA Acting Chair and CEO, said, “The way to build up and maintain ridership is to transform stations that serve customer needs beyond catching the train. White Plains is the third largest Metro-North station that served thousands of commuters on an average pre-pandemic weekday. This project delivers a state-of-the-art transit complex worthy of the Westchester County civic and business center by providing amenities that give customers the ability to be productive on-the-go, further incentivizing them to return to mass transit.”
Catherine Rinaldi, President of Metro-North Railroad, said, “The White Plains renewal project is the everything the Way Ahead program is about, giving our customers the best possible experience while in the system, improving our infrastructure and increasing accessibility. White Plains is a major reverse commute destination, in addition to serving customers who commute into the city. I would like to thank the City of White Plains and Westchester County for being great partners in advancing this project, as well as the entire project team for a truly exceptional job delivering a modernized station that will serve Metro-North and our White Plains customers for years to come.”
Crews installed a new elevator that is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The elevator leads from the main lobby to aside platform generally used for northbound arrivals.
Quemuel Arroyo, MTA Chief Accessibility Officer, said, “A central priority of this renovation was to enhance accessibility. For wheelchair users like myself, seniors with mobility disabilities, parents with children in strollers and so many others, it can be difficult to get around, but not at White Plains. This should serve as a model for all MTA stations as we strive for systemwide accessibility.”
Rhonda Herman, Chair of the MTA Board’s Metro-North Committee, said, “The White Plains station is an integral part of the Harlem Line, and to the White Plains community. It is vital that we reflect that importance with world class standards both from a service perspective and customer experience perspective, which this project accomplished. I applaud Metro-North for completing this project on time, as we welcome more riders back.”
The project included construction of new staircases with an automatic system to melt snow and ice as it falls, helping to prevent slippery surfaces during the inclement weather. Crews also installed new platform canopies with wood ceilings, and LED lighting to match the upgraded aesthetic of the main lobby.
The waiting room on the island platform was remodeled with expanded space, glass-enclosures with new interior station wall panels, wood ceiling and fixtures. The ticket office, restrooms and concession spaces were also remodeled to fit the station’s new feel. Digital screens were installed in addition to better heating and cooling control so commuters can comfortably wait for their train.
Commuters looking to get work done on-the-go will also notice added amenities throughout the station such as Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity and USB chargers on benches. Digital screens were added on platforms as well to provide convenient access to train information. The digital signage complements newly installed ticket vending machines to make the station environment even more customer friendly.
The renovated station also includes new mosaic and laminated glass artwork by artist Barbara Takenaga featuring the artist’s signature stylized abstract forms.
Sandra Bloodworth, Director, MTA Arts & Design, said, “Barbara brings her dazzling, rhythmic forms to the rhythms of our daily commute, energizing us as we travel with her infinite lines that seem to propel us along our journey. Forte (Quarropas) and Blue Rails (White Plains), installed at Metro North’s White Plains Station, with their deep blue and vibrant hues, has the potential to transport our routine of commuting into a unexpected cosmic journey.”
White Plains station is the third largest Metro-North station, serving more than 12,000 commuters on a pre-pandemic weekday, trailing only Stamford and Grand Central Terminal. Similar to the Stamford station on the New Haven Line, the White Plains station is a hub station for Harlem Line commuters, providing express and local service. In addition to local and express connections, the station is also a hub for bus connections, with approximately 3,000 bus transfers per day in pre-pandemic times.
Representative Mondaire Jones said, “I’m thrilled that after three years of renovations, the White Plains train station is finally complete. As the busiest station in Westchester, the White Plains train station connects thousands of folks throughout New York’s 17th Congressional District. With enhanced ADA accessibility, upgraded amenities like Wi-Fi and USB chargers, and more, this new station will improve the commutes and the lives of so many people. The renovations represent a much-needed step in the fight for safe and reliable transportation in Westchester County. Investments in our public transit are investments in our communities, and I’m committed to continuing to fight for the federal investments needed to ensure folks in my district and across the country have the transportation they deserve.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “The completion of this project is great news for White Plains and Westchester County. Modern public transportation is a key to survival for cities. It’s a huge benefit to residents and a selling point to corporations. More than 12,000 riders rely on this station each weekday, and with this infrastructure project completed, they’re already having a better commuting experience. The station upgrades enhance accessibility, increase safety, and improve Wi-Fi access. The State Senate Majority continues to prioritize and invest in our State’s infrastructure, and I thank the MTA for their work to greatly improve this most important station.”
Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “I am so pleased with the completion of the redesign and renovation of the White Plains train station. It remains among the stations with the highest ridership in the Metro-North system, and its modernization will help draw riders back to the system as we rebuild the economy.”
Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “The completed renovation of the White Plains train station is welcome news for the thousands of residents who rely on Metro-North to get where they are going each week. The revitalized station ensures greater accessibility, improves customer experience and service, and enhances safety. The White Plains station is the busiest train station in Westchester and is critical to our County residents and economy. I will continue to advocate for investing in mass transit projects like this, which improve the daily lives of all who work and live in the City of White Plains and our region.”
Assemblymember Chris Burdick said, “I am delighted that the substantial makeover of Metro North’s White Plains Station has been completed. As we emerge from the pandemic, commuters to this heavily utilized station will warmly welcome the safer, ADA compliant and more efficient environment full of superb amenities ranging from Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity to an expanded waiting area and improved vendor space. I wish to thank the MTA for delivering an excellent product and their tenacity in seeing it through.”
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “This station is a major hub for Westchester commuters and the work done here – in the midst of a pandemic – will positively impact the thousands who rely on it each day. Development centered around commuter friendly locations will be a major boon to our COVID-19 recovery prospects and I commend the leadership of the MTA for getting this massive undertaking done.”
White Plains Mayor Tom Roach said, “Congratulations to Metro-North and President Catherine Rinaldi on the completion of this vital upgrade to the White Plains station, which is one of the busiest in the Metro-North system. Given the high level of activity at the station, I have long believed it deserving of an upgrade. This became even more apparent as the City began the work of redeveloping the area immediately adjacent to the station. That work continues and will no doubt be enhanced by the investment made by Metro-North. It is a recognition of the importance of the White Plains station as a hub in the Metro-North system and a recognition of the interconnectedness of the station and the economic vitality of our city.”
The project was part of Metro-North’s Station Improvement Initiative, funded by the MTA’s 2015-2019 and 2020-2024 Capital Programs, and in concert with Metro-North’s Way Ahead plan to enhance customer experience. The objective of this Station Improvement Initiative is to transform and elevate the overall customer experience by bringing world-class standards, with a focus on improving public perception through the introduction of new technology and design innovation.
I am glad the renewal has been complete. From the pictures that were posted (click here to see them), they did an excellent job so kudos to them on that.
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Metro North Adds Real Time Car Info
One of the best features the MTA ever introduced in their LIRR TrainTime app was the real time car seat information displaying the percentage of seats available/taken in a car. Now the agency is introducing it on the Metro-North’s New Haven Line. Here is more information about it via the press release they sent me:
MTA Metro-North Railroad today announced that New Haven Line customers can now see the amount of space available on each car of an approaching train by looking at digital signs on platforms five minutes before a train arrives or by using the Metro-North Train Time app at any time. The feature is designed to help customers find cars with the most available seats on a train before boarding. The technology was launched on the Harlem and Hudson Lines in November 2020.
“I am excited that many more Metro-North customers are now able to use this technology,” said Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi. “As riders continue to return to Metro-North, this makes it even easier to plan your ride. I want to thank all of the hardworking MTA employees for their work on this transformative project.”
The capacity tracking feature was rolled out by car fleet. It became available in November 2020 for most trains operating on electric portions of the Harlem Line and Hudson Line – trains composed of the newer “M7” railcars. Crews continue to work to bring capacity tracking technology to the diesel sections of the lines and to older “M3” electric rail cars.
Customers who already have the app installed will receive an automatic update with the new feature.
The project was completed by Metro-North in-house staff.
Since its inception in 2013, the free mobile app, which is available from Google Play and the AppStore, has provided real-time status and schedule information to customers via their smartphones, along with destination, track assignment and real-time position of the next 12 trains at a given station. Features also include service alerts, fare information, ADA accessibility, parking availability and connecting services. The app is also translated into six languages — English, Spanish, Chinese, Yiddish, Portuguese and Italian.
Highlights of the Metro-North Train Time app include:
- New, refreshed interface with detailed results
- Real-time capacity tracking to enhance social distancing
- Real-time train location updated every three seconds
- Closed car notifications
- Ability to bookmark favorite trips
- Easier access to eTix
- Six available languages — English, Spanish, Chinese, Yiddish, Portuguese and Italian
For more information about the Metro-North Train Time app, visit http://web.mta.info/mnr/html/traintimeapp.htm
This is great albeit long overdue for Metro-North riders. Hopefully the agency will bring it to all lines within the system in a short period of time.
xoxo Transit Blogger
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Waterbury Branch Substitute Bus Service
The Waterbury Branch of the Metro-North Railroad will have buses replace trains starting June 1st & lasting for nearly 2 months due to infrastructure work. Here are more details courtesy of the press release I received:
MTA Metro-North Railroad is reminding Waterbury Branch customers that starting on June 1 Waterbury train service will be replaced by bus service to accommodate infrastructure improvements on the branch. Train service is expected to be restored by Sunday, Aug. 29. With ridership still reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this work can be accomplished while minimizing inconveniences to customers in the future.
The improvement work taking place includes railroad crossing improvements, the replacement of track ties and track curves, completion of passing sidings and track resurfacing along the branch to ensure smoother rides. The work, a priority of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), is part of the $116 million capital improvement project which, when completed, will enable more reliable Waterbury Branch service. In order to accommodate this work bus service will be provided as an additional travel option for customers affected.
This work builds on the successful 2020 program that accelerated construction of the new Waterbury Branch signal system and passing sidings. This year the construction program includes completion of the new passing sidings, at-grade crossing improvements, continuation of tie replacement and track upgrades, and completion of the signal system.
“By getting this work done now we will be ready for the post-Labor Day return of riders,” said Catherine Rinaldi, President of Metro-North Railroad. “CTDOT is a great partner and I know that once they complete this project our Waterbury customers will appreciate the smoother ride and reliable service.”
“The Connecticut Department of Transportation has continued to move forward, step by step, to modernize and improve the Waterbury Branch to bolster efficiency, safety, and the overall customer experience,” said Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti. “These upgrades will help support additional rail service on the line in the future, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our fantastic customers as we enter the final phases of work activity.”
The initial phase of the work is taking place overnights between May 10-28. During that time, buses are replacing the last train from Waterbury and last two Waterbury-bound trains departing from Grand Central Terminal (GCT) and Bridgeport on weeknights.
Customers can access full bus schedule here.
xoxo Transit Blogger
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MTA Worker Assaulted In Harlem
Subway crime is up in a major way throughout the entire subway system. Sadly MTA workers are not spared from the violence. Such was the case early Sunday morning at the 148th St-Harlem 
station when a MTA worker was punched in the face after telling someone to get off the train. Sam Raskin of the New York Post has more:
A man punched an MTA worker at a Harlem subway station after a verbal dispute early Sunday morning, police said.
The maintenance worker told a rider to get off the train and was socked in the face by the assailant about 1:10 a.m. at the 148th Street No. 3 subway station, according to police. The employee, a 40-year-old man, was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries, cops said.
The attacker, who did not have a weapon, wore a black mask and grey pants, and fled from the Lenox Terminal station in an unknown direction, according to police.
Click here for the complete report.
I hope the lowlife responsible is caught although I sadly believe he won’t. I wish complete safety for all the MTA workers out there!
xoxo Transit Blogger
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Ex-MTA Czar Leaked Confidential Information
The leaking or confidential information especially on the higher levels of agencies, corporations, governments, etc… are common. So it comes as no surprise to find out that an ex-MTA czar was leaking confidential information. The leaker in this case was former czar Alex Elegudin who violated ethic rules when giving advance notice to a contractor that their bid was going to fail. David Meyer of the New York Post has more:
The former accessibility czar for New York City’s subways and buses quit last year after he violated ethics rules by giving an MTA contractor advance notice that its bid was going to be rejected — while firing off emails to transit officials imploring them to reconsider, the agency’s inspector general revealed Thursday.
Alex Elegudin leaked the impending decision on Curb Mobility’s bid to operate taxis for disabled New Yorkers to a company exec, Jason Gross, in August 2020 — at the same time the contract selection committee met to make its final call, informing him that Curb’s bid was too expensive, IG Carolyn Pokorny said.
Gross proceeded to call his designated contact on the committee, claiming he’d accidentally submitted incorrect price figures.
Click here for the complete story.
As I said it comes as no surprise that the agency dealt with leaks as it is bound to happen. What is unfortunate is how Alex weaseled his way out the door before being properly dealt with.
xoxo Transit Blogger
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