New York transit agencies kick off latest tech challenge

The sixth annual round of New York’s Transit Tech Lab has been announced, with entries invited for solutions that address issues related to customer experience, resilience and kerb management.

Four agencies – the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, NJ TRANSIT, and NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) – along with the Partnership for New York City are calling for tech-driven approaches from early and growth-stage companies.

“A thriving public transit system means a thriving New York, and that’s why we are so excited to help put innovative technologies to work to improve the rider experience,” said Stacey Matlen, Vice President of Innovation at the Partnership for New York City, a non-profit business membership organisation.

“We are looking forward to yet another year of impactful collaboration between transit agencies and tech innovators, who will be working together once again to help ensure our public transportation can quickly adapt and respond to 21st-century challenges.”

Representatives from each participating agency will evaluate applications based on the technology’s impact and the applicant’s product, team and overall value proposition.

Proof of concept

Finalists will advance to conduct a proof-of-concept over an eight-week period.

The companies demonstrating the most compelling technologies that align with the agencies’ goals have the opportunity to secure a year-long pilot.

To date, 21 companies have been selected to participate in pilots, conducting deeper tests to demonstrate the real-world value of their technology to agency partners.

Some of the key priorities outlined by the transit agencies for this round include encouraging paid ridership, safety and cleanliness in stations and vehicles, and bolstering transit systems against climate-related disruption. Agencies are also keen to better manage kerb space to accommodate various uses.

“We need to reimagine our kerb space to ensure it meets the demands of a 21st-century city,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

“Better managing our kerb space can make our streets safer and more vibrant, improving delivery access, outdoor dining, short-term parking and sustainable transportation options.

“We look forward to exploring new technologies and innovative approaches as part of our Curb Management Action Plan and the newest Transit Tech Lab competition.”

Alumni

The Tech Lab programme is part of the Transit Innovation Partnership, which created the award-winning MTA Live Subway Map and was established by the MTA and the Partnership for New York City to bring private sector innovation to improve public transit.

Companies participating in the programme, which launched in 2019, are eligible for funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Previous winners include Remix, a collaborative digital platform used to redesign bus routes, and Axon Vibe, which built the Essential Connector smartphone app to help essential workers plan journeys during overnight subway disinfection closures.

Applications are open until Wednesday, 28 February, and interested companies can submit their proposals through the Lab’s website.

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