Longtime MTA worker is new voice of the subways

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - There's a new voice in town. Velina Mitchell is the new announcer for the MTA, ready to greet, warn, and inform customers.

Mitchell has been working with the MTA for the past 25 years and is a supervisor at the rail control center. Last fall, the native of Queens got the attention of her new boss, who fell in love with her voice. NYC Transit Chief Customer Officer Sarah Myer said her voice was "kind and authoritative" and made her listen.

MTA spokesman Jon Weinstein said the agency wanted a lifelong New Yorker with that New York accent and sensibility and ability to connect with other New Yorkers.

Mitchell has already recorded more than a dozen announcements, which are playing at stations and train cars around the city.

New Yorkers hope the days of gargled announcements are over and they'll be able to hear Mitchell loud and clear.

Mitchell hopes her voice can make the ride a little smoother for passengers.

The MTA said this is all part of a bigger plan to better communicate with customers.