Implementation is expected to cost the commuter rail industry more than $3.5 billion in capital expenditure, which includes over $16 million in spectrum acquisition, as well as $100 million annually in additional maintenance costs.
In addition to the new technology, WMATA is also retraining operators and track workers to prevent what could be a deadly accident.
Improper manufacturing by Ride the Ducks International, the vehicle manufacturer, and inadequate maintenance by Ride the Ducks of Seattle, the vehicle owner and operator, resulted in the axle failure that subsequently led to the loss of vehicle control.
The new cars will come outfitted with security cameras and positive train control equipment when they are delivered to the railroad.
Members of the New York MTA board revived talks about installing the equipment after a recent uptick in train deaths — some deemed suicides and others the result of people being pushed.