The CTA 4G initiative seeks to transform the subway system’s wireless telecommunications infrastructure with the installation of a next-generation Distributed Antenna System to support modern mobile devices.
Context
In 2013, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) sought to acquire and build a next-generation Distributed Antenna System (NG-DAS), capable of supporting the latest 4G wireless networks and mobile devices. Upgrading the system would allow CTA riders to perform all digital mobile activities in the subway and improve first responder communications throughout the tunnel system.
In December 2013, the CTA engaged the Chicago Infrastructure Trust to explore cost-effective alternative financing strategies for the project. The Trust engaged the four major wireless providers to discuss funding the project.
Throughout the negotiations, the Carriers’ engineering teams worked in close collaboration with the CTA’s technical team and project contractors. At the request of the Carriers, the CTA’s contractors have expanded the original design scope of the project to include panel antennas and dual Radiax cables to support all transmission frequencies. The expanded project is expected to cost $32.5M and take approximately 18 months to build.
As a result of these efforts, Chicago will have the largest subway system in North America with full 4G wireless coverage in its subway systems and tunnels. The project is entirely privately financed by the carriers.
Impact
User experience
Economic
Leadership
| Title | Date | Initiative | Type | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4G Mayoral Announcement | 01/30/2015 | CTA 4G | Miscellaneous | ||
Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) issues RFI to telecom and engineering firms to determine construction feasibility of a next-generation Distributed Antennae (DAS) System.
CTA issues RFQ to potential (DAS) contractors.
Trust initiates CTA 4G project research and due diligence.
CTA holds pre-proposal meeting for potential contractors.
CTA formally engages the Chicago Infrastructure Trust to evaluate alternative project financing. Trust research and due diligence effort completes.
CTA issues RFP to qualified contractors.
CTA receives bids from qualified contractors and begins best and final offer negotiations.
Trust initiates meetings with telecom carriers regarding project involvement.
CTA selects Aldridge Electric Inc. as project contractor, subject to Chicago Transit Board approval.
Trust and telecom carriers agree on principles for funding participation.
Chicago Transit Board approves Aldridge Electric Inc. as (DAS) project contractor.
Trust Board of Directors approves CTA 4G initiative.
Mayor's office and Trust publicly announce $32.5m deal between CTA and carrier group.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel today announced a $32.5 million deal, brokered by the Chicago Infrastructure Trust, with America’s four major wireless providers – T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint – to finance…