Caltrain gets $16 million federal grant for PTC

The Federal Railroad Administration awarded a $16 million grant to the California-High Speed Rail Authority for the design of a new, modernized signaling system on the Caltrain corridor between San Francisco and San Jose. The money will pay for the design of a positive train control technology system and is the first step in the modernization of the Caltrain corridor, which is being planned to support electrified passenger rail service, including high-speed rail. "Keeping people safe is our top priority and positive train control technology will ensure California's rail network transports passengers more safely and efficiently than ever before," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "This comprehensive safety technology will improve passenger service along the highly-traveled corridor between San Francisco and San Jose and will ultimately benefit the entire high-speed rail system in California." "This initial federal investment will enable Caltrain to take an important step forward in our efforts to provide Bay Area communities with a modernized, sustainable commuter rail system that is fully compatible with future high-speed rail service," said Caltrain Executive Director Mike Scanlon. "The Administration and our Congressional leaders should be applauded for recognizing the importance of optimizing safety and promoting integration with regional systems as we continue to plan a project that will transform the way Californians travel." The project is being developed by Caltrain as part of the continuing partnership between the Peninsula rail system and the California High-Speed Rail Authority to undertake projects of mutual benefit to both systems. The new signal system will allow train movements and schedules to be coordinated more efficiently, improving the safety and reliability of all passenger rail operations that use the corridor: Caltrain, Altamont Commuter Express, Amtrak and the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority. The overall modernization of the Caltrain system includes the electrification of the corridor and the operation of electric vehicles. Caltrain will match the federal investment with $4 million. The project's total cost is $251 million.