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SEARCHMetrolink expands its smart crossing technology to Los Angeles County, improving safety and reducing delays for drivers, pedestrians, and rail passengers.
Metrolink first introduced WCNSS technology at an active crossing on Del Obispo Street in Orange County's San Juan Capistrano in June 2024.
Photo: Metrolink
Metrolink has expanded its Wireless Crossing Nearside Station Stop (WCNSS) technology to Los Angeles County, with implementation last week at two crossings near the Baldwin Park Station.
The new "smart" systems, designed to improve surface traffic flow and pedestrian and driver safety near Metrolink stations, went live on Monday, Oct. 13, at rail crossings on either side of the station: Pacific Avenue to the west and Ramona Boulevard to the east.
According to an agency release, previously, safety gates at the Pacific Avenue crossing would activate more than once when westbound Metrolink San Bernardino Line trains traversed the area, adding to local traffic congestion. Eastbound trains had a similar effect at Ramona Boulevard.
The new WCNSS systems address this issue by communicating in real time with Metrolink's Positive Train Control (PTC) network. They keep the crossing gates idle while trains are approaching or stopped at the station, and activate only when they are ready to resume their routes. This reduces delays, easing frustration and enhancing safety for not only train passengers and crews, but also the surrounding community.
"Our investment in 'smart' technologies demonstrates how Metrolink is leveraging innovation to shape the future of rail travel in Southern California," City of Pomona Mayor and Metrolink Board Director Tim Sandoval said. "WCNSS is producing measurable wins for customers and community members, and the results are drawing national attention."
According to the release, Metrolink's long-term effort to upgrade eligible crossings with WCNSS technology was recently recognized by the 2025 Railway Technology Excellence Awards. Metrolink received the Innovation Award in the Smart Mobility category, recognizing the impact these systems are delivering to local communities.
Metrolink first introduced WCNSS technology at an active crossing on Del Obispo Street in Orange County's San Juan Capistrano in June 2024. Thanks to this treatment, nearby drivers and pedestrians were spared an estimated 1,584 activations and 36 hours of delays in the first year of operation.
Metrolink has been steadily expanding WCNSS to new locations throughout its 545-mile system. The Pacific Avenue and Ramona Boulevard crossings are the fifth and sixth locations to go live, marking the first appearance of WCNSS in Los Angeles County.
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