MBTA submits Request for Extension for PTC implementation. Credit: © Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) in the US has submitted a request for an extension to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for the implementation of anti-collision technology called the Positive Train Control (PTC) system.

All US railway transport agencies are required to implement a PTC system, which is a federally mandated safety control solution designed to avoid train collisions.

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The technology is also capable of reducing train speed during potential hazards and prevents human errors.

In order to formally submit the extension request, MBTA completed all necessary requirements and demonstrated significant advancement of work on certain lines.

MBTA has completed wayside equipment installation; on-board equipment deployment on Commuter Rail fleet’s 95 locomotives and 84 control cars; as well as conducting a field qualification testing on the Stoughton Pilot Line.

“Positive Train Control represents one of the most significant safety upgrades for our rail system in recent memory.”

MBTA also carried out PTC training of Keolis personnel and completed PTC Management System configuration before submitting extension request.

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As well as seeking an extension on PTC system implementation, MBTA submitted a revenue service demonstration (RSD) application to the FRA.

MBTA general manager Luis Manuel Ramírez said: “As the highest priority capital project for the MBTA, Positive Train Control represents one of the most significant safety upgrades for our rail system in recent memory.

“I want to thank our partners at the FRA for their collaborative efforts as we continued to make progress in PTC deployment and I also want to acknowledge our project management team and vendors as we worked to turn this project around and get it back on track.”

Now, MBTA will place the Stoughton Line in RSD following FRA approval, under the next stages of PTC system implementation project. It is also expected to complete Lowell Line testing soon.

Under FRA directives, the PTC system implementation should be completed by December 2020.