Three Metrolink staff members made a significant impact at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Rail Conference, held June 2-5 in Cleveland, Ohio. They shared their expertise and insights on innovative strategies and technological advancements shaping rail transportation's future.
Addressing the critical issue of ridership stemming from the coronavirus pandemic, Senior Manager of Market Insights and Analytics Henning Eichler presented on Metrolink's recovery and strategies for reaching new and lapsed riders. Among other initiatives, Henning highlighted Metrolink's successful Student Adventure Pass program and shared the agency’s evolution from a traditional commuter railroad to a regional passenger rail model.
Senior Manager of Special Projects Michelle Stewart delivered two compelling presentations on Metrolink's sustainability efforts, including zero-emission pursuits, alternative fuels and decarbonization. Michelle underscored the agency’s commitment to reducing its criteria pollutant emissions by transitioning to renewable diesel and embarking on a fuel efficiency project and zero emissions pilot to achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly rail service.
Deputy Chief Operating Officer Luis Carrasquero introduced attendees to Metrolink's innovative Early Earthquake Warning System. This pioneering integration links the U.S. Geological Survey’s ShakeAlert technology with Metrolink's Positive Train Control (PTC) system to provide early earthquake detection for trains, enhancing passenger safety and operational resilience. Luis detailed how the first-of-its-kind system is revolutionizing the response to seismic events.
Conference attendees also learned more about Metrolink’s ongoing pilot project to develop a track intrusion detection system equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence-enabled cameras to mitigate track obstructions and unauthorized access along the rail right-of-way. The project, which is funded in part by a U.S. Department of Transportation SMART Grant, will explore PTC integration to slow or stop trains when a person or vehicle is detected on the tracks, thereby preventing accidents and improving safety for passengers and community members.
Beyond its impressive slate of presenters, Metrolink was one of six transit agencies recognized for excellence in rail safety, security and emergency management. Metrolink received certificates of merit in each of these areas in the commuter/intercity rail category. The agency was recognized for its multi-pronged, risk-based approach to addressing system hazards, which utilizes interactive tools to quantify, categorize and prioritize risks. This data-driven methodology has enabled Metrolink to secure grant funding and establish research partnerships to explore emerging technologies, including AI-based safety tools.
Metrolink's participation in the APTA Rail Conference reinforced its leadership in advancing rail safety, sustainability and ridership recovery. The insights shared by Michelle, Henning and Luis – coupled with the recognition from APTA for excellence in rail safety, security and emergency management – reflect Metrolink’s dedication to innovation and the agency’s trailblazing pursuit of safe, reliable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.