For Metrolink, More ‘Smart Crossing’ Tech Installations
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
Southern California’s Metrolink has installed Wabtec’s WCNSS “smart crossing” system at the Del Obispo Street Crossing near its San Jaun Capistrano Station. (Metrolink Photograph)
“Smart crossing” technology has been added to boost safety near a Metrolink regional passenger rail station in Orange County, Calif., following deployment at seven crossings along the nine-mile Arrow system, which in 2022 launched three DMUs (Diesel Multiple Units) into service between San Bernardino and Redlands, Calif., according to Metrolink, the operator of both systems.
The technology, known as the Wireless Crossing Nearside Station Stop (WCNSS) system, “went live” June 1 at the Del Obispo Street crossing near the San Juan Capistrano Station (scroll down to watch). It was funded using a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program grant that the Federal Railroad Administration awarded in 2018.
“Specifically, the WCNSS system will eliminate the ‘ghost train’ phenomenon that has plagued San Juan Capistrano residents,” Metrolink reported June 3. “Previously, on approach to the San Juan Capistrano Station, trains would trigger the safety features at the downstream Del Obispo Street crossing. While the train was stopped at the station, the gate arms would recover—creating a ‘ghost train’ effect—before the safety mechanism was once again triggered as the train left the station.”
The WCNSS system will prevent southbound Metrolink trains scheduled to stop at the San Juan Capistrano Station from activating the crossing’s safety features until leaving the station, according to Metrolink, which noted that upgrading crossings with the WCNSS system “reduces traffic congestion and prioritizes safety by reducing wait times and deterring dangerous behavior such as drivers and pedestrians bypassing activated crossing gates.”
WCNSS technology is not yet available for other passenger rail services operating on Metrolink’s rail lines, though plans to expand to Amtrak Pacific Surfliner are ongoing, Metrolink reported.
“Installing WCNSS systems at railway crossings near stations is a crucial step forward that underscores Metrolink’s commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of our infrastructure,” Metrolink Board Vice Chair and Orange County Supervisor Doug Chaffee said. “Not only will this innovative technology alleviate frustration and improve the safety of San Juan Capistrano residents, but also will benefit communities across Metrolink’s system as it becomes more prevalent.”
Metrolink reported that earlier this year it secured $1.6 million in FY24 appropriations funding from the federal government to support the installation of “smart crossing” technology at additional crossings, and that it “continues to collaborate with local, state, and federal partners with the long-term goal of implementing WCNSS systems at 52 crossings located within one-half mile of Metrolink stations.”
Separately, Metrolink in April said it will use a $1.3 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant for the development and demonstration of a track intrusion detection system, which is slated to not only improve the safety of riders and crew, but also directly benefit pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and everyone else who interacts with the regional passenger rail system.
