Positive Train Control
DCTA is committed to rail safety and is working diligently to implement Positive Train Control (PTC) by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) deadline. PTC was designed to prevent collisions and other incidents by automatically detecting and controlling the movement of trains.
After multiple attempts to find a financially viable solution to implement PTC with the input of outside consulting firms, DCTA decided to take a different approach. Critical to the success of DCTA’s new approach was the solicitation of industry feedback in the development of the technical approach to implement PTC, as well as seizing opportunities presented by the specific characteristics of the agency’s A-train system.
DCTA PTC Technology System Type
DCTA installed Enhanced Automatic Train Control (E-ATC) which is a type of PTC system that uses an underlying automatic train control (ATC) system in conjunction with other “enhanced” features or systems to achieve the core required functionalities of PTC. The E-ATC system is designed to ensure train movement over properly aligned track switches, prevent over speeding, prevent trains from running past stop signals and align train movements with restrictive operating conditions caused due to track and road crossing conditions.
E-ATC also allows DCTA to leverage its fiber networks that enhance its existing signal system.
Current Status of PTC Implementation & Historical Timeline
DCTA is currently operating in RSD (PTC turned on) during regularly-scheduled A-train service with passengers on board. The agency was the first in Texas to implement PTC on its entire commuter rail system.
Timeline of DCTA PTC testing and implementation:
- May 2018 - DCTA began PTC testing and identified service modifications during testing phase
- September 2019 - DCTA received $4 million in grant funding to help with continued implementation of PTC testing and implementation
- January 2019 - DCTA began RSD on limited trains with identified service modifications during testing phase
- August 2019 - DCTA finished PTC testing and had its PTC safety technology implemented on all regular A-train service with passengers on board
- September 2019 - DCTA has finished RSD and moved to extended RSD.
- April 2020 - DCTA submitted its Positive Train Control Safety Plan (PTCSP) for FRA review and is expected to receive FRA approval by December 31, 2020.
- December 2020 - DCTA received PTC certification from the FRA
Want more background information on DCTA's PTC installation and implementation? Click here to download the agency's PTC presentation.