FRA seeks input on railroad industry automation

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is soliciting public comments on the future of automation in the railroad industry.

The agency is requesting information and comments from industry stakeholders, the public, local and state governments, and other interested parties on the potential benefits, costs, risks and challenges to implementing automated railroad operations, according to a notice posted on the FRA website.

FRA officials also are seeking input on how the agency "can best support the railroad industry's development and implementation of new and emerging technologies in automation that could lead to safety improvements or increased efficiencies in railroad operations," the notice states.

The deadline for submitting responses is May 7.