Celebrating the Voice of New York’s Transit System
Good morning! It’s Thursday, and today we delve into the life of the iconic voice that has resonated throughout New York’s transit system—putting the “Grand” in Grand Central, the “Penn” in Penn Station, and the “kon” in Ronkonkoma. We’ll also discuss the recent City Council vote on a bill aimed at limiting broker fees for renters.
Meet Van Ritshie, a name that might not ring a bell, but his voice certainly does. Known for its distinctive, friendly yet authoritative tone, Van Ritshie’s announcements have become synonymous with the New York travel experience.
His voice, which has graced the Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road trains since the mid-1990s, is recognized for its succinct and practical delivery. Each announcement was crafted to ensure passengers knew exactly where they were headed. With an effortless charm, he reminded travelers: “As you leave the train, please watch the gap between the train and the platform.”
Over the years, he recorded a multitude of station names, from Albertson to Yaphank on the L.I.R.R. and from Beacon to Yonkers on Metro-North. His unique touch brought life to some station names, infusing them with energy—like adding an exclamation point after “Southeast” or “Bayside.”
When necessary, his announcements were updated to reflect changes, including the recent integration of L.I.R.R. trains running to and from the historic Grand Central Terminal last year. Van Ritshie’s voice not only guides commuters but also serves as a comforting constant in the ever-busy life of New York City.
