Closing Bell: Robo Train Has Arrived
Starting today, the L train is finally a robo train. The line will be fully controlled by a computerized signal system. The system will enable “the NYC Transit to run trains closer together, more frequently, and safer than the current antiquated signal system allows.” Motormen will still be on the trains though just in case…
Starting today, the L train is finally a robo train. The line will be fully controlled by a computerized signal system. The system will enable “the NYC Transit to run trains closer together, more frequently, and safer than the current antiquated signal system allows.” Motormen will still be on the trains though just in case a problem arises. When a rider was asked by NY Daily News about it, he replied, “I have to be honest. I’m a little afraid.” Are you afraid of your line becoming a robo train?
Photo by okreitz.
Oddly enough, I have noticed that in recent weeks the disparity between the times posted on the electronic billboard, the ones being announced by the robot, and the arrivals and departures of actual trains has greatly increased. It’s like 3 different time tables, but figuring out if one of them might be right helps the wait go by.
@matt – indeed it was.
It would appear that the plan is to keep the trains manned until the system is proven (and current contracts are up) and then decreasing the amount of humans running the train until only skynet is left running the show. This way, after judgement day cyborgs will have an easier time getting to and from the city.
it’s the L train. the cheesiest train in nyc hands down. i think my last post didnt go thru, sorry for a double.
*rob*
I can see it already: “The Taking of Robotrain Rock-Park-Eighth”, where the train is remotely take over by an irate MTA IT person, who only wants an unlimited Metrocard as part of their compensation package. Watch the L speed out of control at the warp speed of 15MPH!!! Thrill to the [un]surprise ending, as the train stops dead in it’s tracks due to budget problems!!! YES!!! A MUST SEE TOUR DE FARCE!!!
do the tokyo robo trains have motormen on them for safety / emergency purposes?
Since the trains still have drivers and attendants, what is the real purpose? I guess they mush have surplus money that they needed to spend somewhere. The L is my main train so I would love to see better efficiency and less crowded trains, but just not sure how this is going to do anything for that when overall they have cut the amount of trains. Now there will just be automated crowded trains still paying the same labor costs plus computer expenses. Whose uncle of a board member owns the computer company?
What does the transit workers’ union say about this? It seems like they’re effectively outsourcing a great deal of middle-class jobs.
I’m 100% behind any initiatives to modernize the NYC subway system. It’s fallen way behind.
Altho I do not want to emulate the part of Tokyo’s transit system where people are literally shoved in like sardines by track employees. What a horrible, claustrophobic thing that must be.