21 Railroads Unite for Train Control Software Glow-Up
Published Date: 8/1/2025
Notice
Summary
On July 25, 2025, 21 railroads teamed up to ask for changes to their safety plans to add new onboard software (Version 6.5.5.0) for Positive Train Control. This update means tweaking how trains and operators interact and how the system works together. The public can now share their thoughts before these changes get the green light, which could affect train safety and operations soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Railroads Seek PTC Software Update
On July 25, 2025, 21 host railroads jointly asked the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to amend their Positive Train Control Safety Plans to implement onboard software Version 6.5.5.0. The update would change the Interoperable Train Control (ITC) Positive Train Control Concept of Operations and the human-machine interface (HMI), and may require FRA approval of material modifications to FRA-certified PTC systems.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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