Skip to main content

Chicago’s Metra rail system implements PTC

US systems integrator Parsons has been selected by Metra, Chicago’s commuter rail operator, to install positive train control (PTC) technology on its commuter rail trains. PTC, which is federally mandated, is high tech collision avoidance technology that monitors and controls train movements. It is intended to prevent train to train collisions, over-speed derailments, incursions into established work zones, and movement of trains through a main line switch left in an improper position. As prime contra
September 7, 2015 Read time: 1 min
US systems integrator 4089 Parsons has been selected by Metra, Chicago’s commuter rail operator, to install positive train control (PTC) technology on its commuter rail trains.

PTC, which is federally mandated, is high tech collision avoidance technology that monitors and controls train movements. It is intended to prevent train to train collisions, over-speed derailments, incursions into established work zones, and movement of trains through a main line switch left in an improper position.

As prime contractor, Parsons will work with Metra to install an interoperable electronic train management system that will be interoperable with twelve railroads, integrating the complex system of locomotive mounted Global Positioning System devices, radios, trackside antennas, and computers.

Todd Wager, Parsons Group president, commented, “PTC will significantly improve safety for Chicago’s travelling public and we’re proud to be contributing to this important endeavour.”

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Covid turns tolls cashless
    December 23, 2021
    When coronavirus hit, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission made its long-planned e-tolling system permanent; this made sense, but it was still a difficult decision, explains the organisation’s Carl DeFebo
  • Siemens offers Stamford a ‘bird’s eye view’
    April 29, 2019
    Stamford, Connecticut is a vibrant, diverse community overlooking the Long Island Sound, within commuting distance of New York City. Stamford hosts the largest financial district in the greater New York metro area outside of Manhattan and is home to a high concentration of large corporations and corporate HQs. With a population of 130,000, Stamford is Connecticut’s third largest city and the fastest-growing municipality in the state. Like many US cities, Stamford had previously relied on an antiquated traf
  • Variable message signs continue to deliver travel information
    February 2, 2012
    Arguably the 'face' of ITS, variable message signs are far from being a passing solution
  • How ITS helped Coachella get its groove back
    November 15, 2024
    California’s Coachella Valley attracts visitors to myriad music and sports events. But now an ambitious traffic management initiative aims to cut travel times and reduce emissions. Adam Hill talks to the engineers involved in the massive CV Sync project