SMART rail safety tool receives approval

SMART has been recognized by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for achieving Positive Train Control (PTC) certification ahead of the industry mandated deadline.

 

Federally-mandated positive train control is a system that essentially controls movements on the rails electronically to slow or stop trains before certain types of accidents can occur. PTC systems constantly monitor the trains, including location, direction and speed. The system will warn train operators of potential problems and safely bring the train to a stop if the operator does not act.

 

Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit service, which began service in August 2017, was one of the first lines in the nation to have the safety feature. SMART service takes passengers from Santa Rosa to Larkspur and points in between.

MTC has provided financial support for SMART, which most recently added a Larkspur extension and downtown Novato station.