Said positions like engineers, train conductors, and those maintaining the tracks on both rail lines like Amtrak as well as subways, should be checked against the watch list, similar to the way airline employees current are.
The cost of the camera systems is being funded in part by a $160-million agreement with the federal government, which will also help cover the cost of new GPS bus-tracking technology and other upgrades.
The buses will serve communities along PVTA's Route P21E in Holyoke and Springfield. In addition to state-contributed funds, PVTA purchased the Proterra Catalyst FC buses with funds from the Federal Highway and Transit Administration.
The trains consist of four cars with a total capacity of 220 seats and offer increased comfort thanks to seats equipped with individual reading lights, electric sockets, and raisable footrests, as well as spaces dedicated to bicycles and luggage, large bay windows, and reduced noise levels.
Officials say they have had a number of complaints about cigarette smoking, particularly in the downtown terminal where the lack of ventilation causes both irritation and potential public health issues for passengers.
The research team will monitor the engine (speed, RPM, load, and other parameters) data along with GPS information in order to analyze the bus fleet drive cycles, and identify characteristics such as idle time and speed distribution.
The communities will receive in-depth, long-term technical assistance as they plan strategies for successful TOD, which has been shown to provide a boost to local economies.