Denver RTD tests PTC, crossing technology on G Line

The Regional Transportation District of Denver (RTD) has begun testing positive train control (PTC) and a wireless crossing system (WCS) on its G Line commuter-rail route.

The work involves synchronizing and optimizing the PTC system and the conventional control systems at 16 grade crossings along the line, RTD officials said in a press release issued earlier this month.

Regulations require that each component of the PTC system is tested according to specific Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines. RTD is starting out by testing the performance, safety and functionality of the G Line's PTC system using active train movements with the WCS turned off.

After the FRA is satisfied with these tests, RTD will be authorized to turn on the WCS.

As required by the FRA and the Colorado Public Utilities Commission, attendants or uniformed police officers are staffed at the crossings at all times to ensure the safety of pedestrians, drivers and the public, RTD officials said. After the PTC and WCS tests have been completed, RTD will follow an FRA-approved plan to systematically remove the crossing attendants.