Amtrak Tinkers with Train Safety Controls for Smoother Rides
Published Date: 1/13/2026
Notice
Summary
Amtrak wants to update its Positive Train Control (PTC) safety plan and system to keep trains running safely and smoothly. This affects Amtrak and anyone who rides or works on their trains. The Federal Railroad Administration is asking for public comments by February 2, 2026, before deciding on these important safety changes—no big cost changes were mentioned.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Amtrak Seeks PTC Hardware/Software Changes
Amtrak submitted a Request for Amendment on November 14, 2025 (supplemented January 5, 2026) to change its FRA‑approved Positive Train Control safety plan and Type Approval for its ACSES II system. Amtrak asked to deploy new PTC system hardware and software to support system reliability improvements; the FRA is inviting public comments by February 2, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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