Components for T-Mobile US’ DAS were installed at six MetroLink stations to boost cellular signals in tunnels in downtown St. Louis

Metropolitan St. Louis Transit Agency (Metro Transit) has partnered with T-Mobile US to install wireless equipment inside metro tunnels to provide voice and high-speed LTE data service for T-Mobile US and MetroPCS customers who ride MetroLink, the agency said in a statement.

“When you’re riding MetroLink, you shouldn’t have to plan your calls, texts or emails around the tunnels. You want your phone to work when you need it,” said Jennifer Silveira, senior vice president of engineering and technology for T-Mobile US’ central region. “Not only are T-Mobile and MetroPCS customers the first to have service in the tunnels, it’s blazing fast, too. Go ahead and stream your music or watch Cardinals’ highlights in HD on your way to the park.”

Components for T-Mobile’s distributed antenna system (DAS) were installed at six MetroLink stations to amplify cellular signals in tunnels in downtown St. Louis, the Central West End, and along the Blue Line by the University City-Big Bend and Skinker MetroLink Stations.

“Being able to stay connected is important in our daily lives, for our work, for communicating with our families, for safety and security and for education and entertainment,” said John Nations, president and chief executive officer of bi-state development. “Through this partnership, our passengers who are T-Mobile and MetroPCS customers, will enjoy this new amenity that will make their commutes on the Metro Transit system that much more convenient, easy and enjoyable. It’s part of our commitment to give our riders the best transit experience possible.”

The new antennas are fully operational, and MetroLink passengers using T-Mobile US or MetroPCS services can currently access the system for cellular and data service throughout the MetroLink system. The cost of this project was completely supported by T-Mobile US, Metro Transit said.

Metro operators are relying on DAS solutions in a move to boost coverage in tunnels and stations across the transport network.

Hong Kong-based wireless solution provider Comba Telecom Systems has recently deployed a distributed antenna system (DAS) solution for Bangkok’s metro system.

The DAS solution was installed in the Bang Sue-Tao Poon underground extension of Bangkok Metro’s Blue Line. For this specific project, Comba Telecom said it has delivered a full turnkey solution encompassing site survey, network design, equipment supply, installation and project management.