Rail supplier updates from GE, Alstom, KBR and Crosslinx Transit (June 10)

Florida East Coast Railway (FECR) has begun deploying GE Transportation's RailConnect™ mCrew, a mobile software platform that enables train crews to receive switching instructions and report car movement activity in real time. Data from the platform flows into FECR's Transportation Management System, which customers can access via the "FECR Connect" online portal. The technology is aimed at improving asset utilization, enhancing operations productivity and better serving customers, FECR officials said in a press release.

Alstom has been awarded a $22.6 million contract to develop and install an automatic pilot control system for Line A of the Paris RER. The company will perform background studies and develop related equipment for the line's train sets, in addition to providing project assistance until the rehabilitated line goes back into commission, which is scheduled for 2018. Alstom officials hope the project will reinforce the performance and frequency of the RER A Line, which transports 1.2 million passengers per day, according to a company press release.

KBR Inc was awarded an alliance contract to remove grade crossings in Victoria, Australia. Over three years, KBR and John Holland will remove four crossings in the Australian state. KBR will provide design services for the project in an integrated alliance with John Holland, VicRoads, Metro Trains Melbourne and Public Transport Victoria. The grade separations will be the first undertaken by Victoria as part of its program to remove 50 crossings across Melbourne.

Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario selected Crosslinx Transit Solutions as the preferred proponent for the development of the Eglinton Crosstown Light-Rail Transit project in Toronto. Crosslinx is a consortium that includes Aecon, ACS Infrastructure Canada, EllisDon and SNC-Lavalin. Pending financial close and execution of the project agreement, the group will be responsible for the design, build, finance, operation, maintenance and lifecycle activities of the 11.8-mile line for 30 years.