Metra nets $20 million in federal funds for PTC implementation

Metra has received a $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to implement positive train control (PTC) on the Milwaukee North and West lines.

"This much needed funding will help guarantee that one of the busiest commuter rail systems in the nation continues to provide for residents," said U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill) in a press release.

The federal dollars also will help drive additional economic activity and "further solidify Chicago's role as a leader in innovative transportation," Quigley added.

The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act includes $199 million to help railroads install PTC systems. That legislation was passed in late 2015.

Last week, elected officials from New York and New Jersey announced federal grants to help Amtrak and New Jersey Transit pay for PTC implementation.