NTSB's most-wanted safety innovations list since
1990, and Metrolink was determined to become the
first commuter rail in the nation to implement the
life-saving technology on its system to ensure the
safety of its passengers. The agency also committed to
implementing PTC ahead of the federal mandate.
System-based safety technology capable of preventing train-to-train collisions, overspeed derailments,
unauthorized movement into work zones and train movement through switches left in the wrong position.
PTC monitors and, if necessary, controls train movement in the event of human error. PTC may also bring
trains to a safe stop in the event of a natural disaster.
needs to be slowed or stopped. This information includes the status of upcoming signals, the position
of approaching switches, speed limits at upcoming curves and other reduced-speed locations, speed
restrictions at approaching crossings and speed restrictions at areas where work is being performed on
or near the tracks. PTC communicates with the train's onboard computer, allowing it to audibly warn the
engineer and display the train's safe braking distance based on the train's speed, length, width, weight and
the grade and curvature of the track. If the engineer does not respond to the warning and screen display,
the onboard computer will activate the brakes and safely stop the train.
major challenge. Interoperability means continued smooth, uninterrupted
train operations for each agency when they cross onto tracks operated
by another agency. PTC implementation in Southern California requires
coordination between Metrolink, Amtrak, North County Transit District
and Class 1 freight carriers, BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad.
Metrolink is also working with Class 1 freights Norfolk Southern Railway
and CSX Transportation. Interoperability is imperative because all agencies'
systems are interconnected. Metrolink shares tracks with Amtrak and freight carriers, and one-fifth of the
tracks that both Metrolink and freight carriers operate on is single track. This presents a higher risk for
collisions. PTC will help reduce such risks.
an agreement with Maritime Communications/Land Mobile to purchase 220MHz of spectrum and in 2010
filed necessary paperwork with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Metrolink's planned
Congress for consideration
would delay the deadline for
PTC implementation from 2015
to 2020. Metrolink remains
committed to implementing PTC
ahead of the initial 2015 federal
deadline.