Signaling Challenge

How can we modernize the subway signaling system faster and at lower cost?

The Brief

MTA subways are controlled by an aging signaling system. By digitizing this signaling system, the MTA can safely and reliably run more subways cars more closely together, increasing capacity and making travel more enjoyable.

This challenge calls for technology to implement a more efficient, reliable subway signaling system quickly and cost-effectively.

Apply by February 7, 2020 for the chance to pilot and contract with the MTA. Semifinalists will be invited to the Signaling Challenge Demo Day on March 13, 2020.

Apply Now

Signaling Challenge Toolkit

Challenge Winners

Selected challenge winners access partnership opportunities on an accelerated timeline as part of the MTA's $7 billion signaling program including but not limited to:

Proof of Concept: Test of Technology - As early as June 15, 2020
Pilot: Test of Scalability - As early as September 2020
Safety Certification - As early as June 2021
Signaling Program Contract - As early as June 2022

Specifications and Resources

Train specifications: This challenge seeks solutions to equip any or all of the following NYCT subway cars with signaling technology faster and at lower cost:
- 1,030 total R142 subway cars (Download PDF specification)
- 220 total R142A subway cars (Download PDF specification)
- 10 prototype R211A subway cars (Download PDF specification)
- 20 prototype R211T subway cars (Download PDF specification)
- 5 prototype R211S subway cars (Download PDF specification)
Train network: Existing subway trains use LonWorks networking technology IEEE 1473-L. LonWorks also provides the AAR's S-4200 train network standard for Electronically Controlled Pneumatic Brakes. This information is provided as background and challenge solutions are not required to integrate with Lonworks.
Timeline: To accelerate the signaling program deployment, this challenge calls for solutions that can be tested and proven within two years.
MTA 2020-2024 Capital Program - The upcoming $51B MTA transit infrastructure plan, which dedicates $7B to signaling.
Fast Forward NYC Plan - New York City Transit's master plan to transform service, in which signaling plays a vital role.

Signaling Challenge Criteria

MTA subject matter experts and private sector judges will evaluate applications to the signaling challenge according to the following criteria:

Impact: technology can be piloted within two years in the MTA operating environment, the Submission presents a viable solution relevant to the Signaling Challenge, and has the potential to advance signaling program objectives:
- improved safety of passengers and staff
- on-time performance
- increased customer satisfaction
- enhanced operational flexibility
- on-time and on-budget infrastructure program delivery
Product: technology is in prototype or more mature phase and available for live demonstration, Applicant is able to provide customer metrics or other evidence illustrating market fit and success in other markets, and solution can use non-proprietary standards and data that support interoperability with other technologies
Team: Applicant has a qualified, compatible team with dedicated financial and technical resources to execute a successful pilot
Value: technology presents (a) a new way of deriving more value from existing MTA assets, (b) potential cost savings for the MTA or a new revenue source, and (c) an opportunity to more efficiently manage infrastructure, operations and/or customer service

Questions? Email signals@transitinnovation.org.