New York -- MTA Metro-North Railroad Monday chose STV, Inc. to study how to improve the information available on video monitors in Grand Central Terminal.

STV will study the technology requirements, installation needs, components, and interconnectivity for more—and more diverse—information on arrival and departure displays screens.  The contract award is pending approval of the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which meets next Wednesday.

This three-month, $100,000 study will determine how best to provide visual information such as weather, news, safety tips, things to see and do, places to shop and dine in Grand Central, as well as how to best promote Metro-North excursions to the scenic and historic suburbs.

The challenge will be how to upgrade video technology within the terminal’s landmarked building, with no structural changes, exposed ductwork, holes, or damage. 

With 700,000 customers passing through Grand Central everyday, and more trains arriving and departing to serve more customers than ever before, more information is needed.  And with the Terminal now boasting 35 restaurants, 68 shops, and being the second most visited site in New York City (second only to Times Square), information regarding shopping, dining and sightseeing is also vital information.

In addition, Metro-North Getaway Packages—excursion trips to places, events, and activities in the suburbs and beyond—will also require further information and schedules to be displayed.

Equally important, information about security and staying safe are going to be important elements for the record-breaking number of customers who travel aboard Metro-North every year.