Metra issues RFP for onboard camera systems, discounts passes due to service disruptions

Metra has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for onboard camera digital video recorder systems.

The chosen firm will provide up to 700 interior passenger seating area camera systems for Metra's cab, trailer and electric multiple unit cars, with associated software, hardware, materials, equipment, spare parts and accessories, and training and support.

The systems will be used for employee and passenger safety and security, according to the RFP. The systems will be separate from Metra's inward, forward-facing and rear-facing cab camera systems. The agency's cars currently have no major provisions dedicated to an interior passenger camera system, the RFP states.
 
Questions surrounding the RFP must be submitted by Feb. 26 and proposals are due March 26.

Meanwhile, Metra announced Electric District Line riders will receive a 15 percent discount on their April monthly pass as compensation for two weeks of service disruptions that occurred recently.

The disruptions – which included all or parts of six days without service from Jan. 30 to Feb. 12 – were caused by unusually severe winter conditions and overhead power structure damage from a CN derailment, Metra officials said. The severe weather included the coldest area temperatures since 1985 and an ice storm.

On Jan 30, a CN train operating on tracks parallel to Metra's near Harvey, Illinois, derailed and crashed into a tower that supports the overhead power structure. The tower toppled, damaging more than 2 miles of wires and wire supports, and knocking out two electrical substations.

The discount will apply only to paper monthly passes sold by ticket agents at the Millennium and Van Buren Street stations, or through transit benefit providers, Metra officials said. The Electric District Line runs between Millennium Station in Chicago and University Park.

"We are taking this rare step of providing discounts because of the unusual severity and length of the service disruption on the Metra Electric Line," said Metra Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Jim Derwinski.