FRA launches safety review of New York & Atlantic Railway

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today launched a safety review of the New York & Atlantic Railway's (NY&A) safety culture and management practices. The announcement follows the start of FRA's investigation into the July 8 train-truck collision at Maspeth Avenue in Queens, N.Y

NY&A officials have committed their full cooperation as the safety review moves forward, FRA officials said in a press release.

The FRA's analysis will review the short line’s compliance with federal regulations, its operational practices and overall safety culture.

"Rail safety is a responsibility [the U.S. Department of Transportation] shares with the operators," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. "Railroads must adhere to the strict standards of safety set by FRA, and FRA must ensure and enforce compliance in order to protect lives. This safety review aims to do just that."

Specifically, FRA inspectors will examine: NY&A operating departments, engineer and conductor certification, locomotive engineer oversight, grade crossing diagnostics, operation control center procedures and rail traffic controller training, human factors, and compliance with federal operating practices regulations.

After the review is completed, the FRA will report its findings and recommendations, and evaluate the short line’s follow-up to the recommendations.

"In this safety sweep of NY&A, FRA will provide recommendations on specific areas where the railroad must improve to meet the high safety standards FRA and the country expect," said Acting Federal Railroad Administrator Sarah Feinberg.