Railroad officials request extension to install PTC
Cost and complexity cited as reasons for needing an extension of the 2015 deadline. California Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein are fighting an extension, saying that if Metrolink can meet the deadline, other railroads should also be able to.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Los Angeles Times reported that several rail industry officials are calling for an extension to meet a federal requirement to complete installation of positive train control (PTC) on their rail systems by a 2015 deadline. They cite the cost and complexity of the effort as reasons for needing an extension.
The requirement stems from a deadly collision in Chatsworth, Calif. between a Metrolink commuter train and a Union Pacific freight train in 2008.
Meanwhile, Southern California’s Metrolink is on schedule to complete installation along its 512 miles of track by the deadline. California Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, who initially pushed for an earlier deadline, are fighting an extension. They contend that if Metrolink can meet the deadline, other railroads should also be able to. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority is also on schedule to meet the deadline, according to the Times. For the full story, click here.
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