Since 2008, Kansas City Southern Railway Co.'s (KCS) Signal Group has posted progress with positive train control (PTC) implementation duties.
The group worked with suppliers to design various signal location types, completed the design of a dark territory switch monitoring system for a PTC pilot in the New Orleans Subdivision, determined locations to replace out-of-date centralized traffic control equipment with new PTC-compatible equipment, and initiated PTC engineering across various subdivisions, according to an implementation update on the "KCS News" web page.
For the rest of 2015, signal field installations will continue and the group is expected to begin working on writing programs for various types of PTC/signal equipment to develop a testing and deployment strategy.
PTC program objectives include using a PTC governing body and implementation structure to comply with federal PTC requirements; deploying technologies needed to deliver required PTC functions; collecting accurate information and reporting data; preparing resources with the right PTC knowledge and skills; aligning operational processes to effectively operate and maintain PTC technologies; and implementing a successful, interoperable PTC solution in compliance with federal law, KCS officials said in the update.
A key objective is reinforcing company-wide awareness of the PTC initiative. The railroad is committed to PTC implementation in order to meet the federal mandate and maintain its strong safety culture, KCS officials said.
Source: Progressive Railroading Daily News
