Audit launched to explore how federal PTC funds are being used

The latest data from the FRA shows some rail systems are still lagging, with the technology operational along 27% of freight-rail route miles and 23% of passenger-rail route miles, as of the first three months of this year.

Staff Writer・Editorial

Read Staff's Posts

July 10, 2017

Audit launched to explore how federal PTC funds are being used

1 min to read

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Amid concerns that some rail systems are not moving fast enough to meet the upcoming federal deadline, the Department of Transportation’s Office of the Inspector General announced it is conducting a new audit to explore how railroads are using federal funds to install Positive Train Control (PTC), The Hill reports.

Railroads have slowly been making progress in installing PTC, but the latest data from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) shows some are still lagging, with the technology operational along 27% of freight-rail route miles and 23% of passenger-rail route miles, as of the first three months of this year.

The initial phase of the audit, which was requested by Sen. John Thune (R-SD), chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, will identify railroads that received DOT funding or financing to support PTC projects and describe those PTC projects, while the second phase will assess FRA’s and FTA’s oversight of PTC funding allocations and determine whether recipients have used awarded funds “completely and efficiently,” according to the Office of Inspector General’s announcement. For the full story, click here.

Topics:audit FRA FTA passenger rail PTC safety U.S. DOT Management Rail Technology Security and Safety

More Security and Safety

Security and Safety•January 22, 2026

Researchers Identify Top Risk Factors for Pedestrian-vehicle Crashes at Massachusetts Bus Stops

While their comprehensive analysis of bus stops focused on Massachusetts, the researchers are excited about the generalizability of the findings and application to other locations.

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.

Technology•by Staff•January 16, 2026

CTA Innovation Studio Expands Pilot to Reduce Smoke, Odors

The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.

Security and Safety•by Staff•January 16, 2026

Milwaukee Rolls Out New Measures to Enhance Bus Safety

MCTS officials said the new pilots are part of a broader commitment to improving the rider experience through proactive, visible safety strategies that balance enforcement with customer support.

Transit signal priority and public transit agencies.

New Mobility•by Alex Roman•January 16, 2026

How AI is Redefining Transit Operations and Signal Priority

In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.