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MTA Security Overhaul "May Never be Completed"
By
Sabrina Jaszi
Published Jan 26, 2010
Modified Jan 26, 2010
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By
Sabrina Jaszi
Published Jan 26, 2010
Modified Jan 26, 2010
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The MTA says its biggest security overhaul in history "is taking too long, costing too much" and now it's running out of money. The agency has only $59 million left in the bank for the program—not nearly enough for the installation of motion sensor cameras and other high-tech gadgets at every subway station.
State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says "there is no end in sight" for the move to better security in NY's underground; already the agency has invested $833 million in the system, which according to the NY Post, is a target for terrorists. So far it's installed 2,300 security cameras and an undisclosed number of real-time alarms.
The project hasn't been helped by squabbling between the authority and its contractor, Lockheed Martin. Lockheed is suing the MTA, saying it wasn't given enough access to underground tunnels. Meanwhile, the MTA claims its contractor hasn't delivered the ultimate antidote to terror it promised. Any improvements to the system since September 11, DiNapoli attributes to the renewed efforts of the underground police force. The agency says it will "finish the project with available funds," regardless of the lawsuit. But, warned DiNapoli menacingly, "some security improvements are years behind schedule and the electronic security program may never be completed."
Tagged
Budget cuts
contractor
dinapoli
lawsuit
lockheed martin
motion sensor camera
MTA
mta police
security
Sabrina Jaszi
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