TRANSIT: Metra chooses positive train control source for $80 million contract

Sept. 8, 2015

The contract amount had been disclosed in April of this year, since which time a decision has been waylaid by negotiations

According to Chicago area transit officials, Metra has selected Parsons to install positive train control (PTC) on the railroad’s commuter-rail lines. The contract—$80 million—represents Metra’s biggest PTC expenditure to date and will require Parsons to install an electronic train management system that will be interoperable with 12 railroads, Parsons officials said in a press release.

The federally mandated technology also will integrate a system of locomotive-mounted GPS devices, radios, trackside antennas and computers.

“PTC will significantly improve safety for Chicago’s traveling public, and we’re proud to be contributing to this important endeavor,” said Parsons Group President Todd Wager.

The company previously has worked with Metrolink, Caltrain, Amtrak and New Jersey Transit to meet the federally mandated PTC system requirements. Metra links the outlying suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area to the city’s two major rail hubs, Union Station and Ogilvie Transportation Center.

Sponsored Recommendations

The Science Behind Sustainable Concrete Sealing Solutions

Extend the lifespan and durability of any concrete. PoreShield is a USDA BioPreferred product and is approved for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It works great above...

Powerful Concrete Protection For ANY Application

PoreShield protects concrete surfaces from water, deicing salts, oil and grease stains, and weather extremes. It's just as effective on major interstates as it is on backyard ...

Concrete Protection That’s Easy on the Environment and Tough to Beat

PoreShield's concrete penetration capabilities go just as deep as our American roots. PoreShield is a plant-based, eco-friendly alternative to solvent-based concrete sealers.

Proven Concrete Protection That’s Safe & Sustainable

Real-life DOT field tests and university researchers have found that PoreShieldTM lasts for 10+ years and extends the life of concrete.