The MTA has finally taken the guessing game out of waiting on a few more subway platforms.
Countdown clocks, which tick off the number of minutes until the next train arrives, are being tested on the No. 6 line, and the agency hopes to roll them out at all 152 stations on the numbered lines by the middle of 2011.
Transit officials have promised the amenity for years, but until now, only stations on the L line were equipped with the technology.
“Our customers have long been accustomed to having to guess when the next train will arrive, and of course, we are well aware of the complaints about poor quality public-address systems in the subway,” NYC Transit President Thomas Prendergast said.
“With this system, we are taking a quantum leap forward in customer communications.”
Installed at stations between Brook and Longwood avenues in The Bronx, the signs will also be used to provide text and audio messages about delays and other transit notices, officials said.
Straphangers said they’re thrilled the waiting game is over.
Leroy Patterson, 49, a postal worker from The Bronx, said he can now check how long until the next train arrives before he swipes his MetroCard.
“I can see if I have four minutes to run up and get a Big Mac or newspaper,” he said. “It’s little victories like that that get you along in life.”
José Gomez, 45, a school-bus driver, agreed.
“In New York, everyone is in a rush, and time is very important,” he said.
But some passengers questioned the accuracy of the information.
Jay Kelly, 43, of East New York, said the train took three minutes, instead of the one minute the sign promised.
“If it’s accurate, it’s a good idea,” he said. “But when the system malfunctions, it messes with you psychologically.”