Metra awards contract to Parsons for PTC implementation

Metra selected Parsons to install positive train control (PTC) on the Chicago railroad’s trains.

The contract, which marks Metra’s biggest PTC expenditure to date, calls for Parsons to install an electronic train management system that will be interoperable with 12 railroads, Parsons officials said in a press release.

The technology also will integrate a system of locomotive-mounted GPS devices, radios, trackside antennas and computers.

"PTC will significantly improve safety for Chicago’s traveling public and we’re proud to be contributing to this important endeavor,” said Parsons Group President Todd Wager.

The contract was estimated to be worth $80 million, according to a Chicago Tribune report in late April.

Parsons has helped Metrolink, Caltrain, Amtrak and New Jersey Transit meet the federally mandated PTC system requirements, officials from the engineering firm said.

[Editor's note: This story has been updated since its initial posting.]