This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
9/13/2021
Metrolink plans to pilot the use of a new technology that will help ensure the safe and rapid slowing and stopping of trains in the event of an earthquake.
The technology is being deployed along Metrolink’s 91/Perris Valley Line between Perris and Riverside, California, through a partnership with the California Department of Transportation and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The Earthquake Early Warning System is designed to use data from the USGS-operated ShakeAlert® to notify Metrolink’s positive train control (PTC) system that an earthquake has occurred. The system can rapidly slow or stop a train even before ground shaking is felt.
The system will be deployed on Metrolink trains in two phases. The initial version will automatically process ShakeAlert® data and send notifications to train crews in the impacted area with train-handling instructions based on the severity of the earthquake detected, agency officials said in a news release. A second phase — which is under development — will add PTC enforcement to automatically stop or slow trains when needed.