Metrolink has activated additional Automatic Train Stop (ATS) technology at 49 priority locations throughout its rail system, including two locations in Orange.

There are now 105 ATS locations along the Metrolink routes in Orange County, San Gabriel Valley, Antelope Valley and Ventura County.

The exact location of the ATS technology is not disclosed and kept general for safety reasons, said Angela Starr, Metrolink public information officer.

“They are literally attached to the tracks, which is an area unsafe, and illegal, for pedestrian traffic,” she said.

The ATS system includes magnetic inductors placed next to the track at locations where the train is approaching a curve or speed change.

The ATS system sounds an audible alarm and flashing alert on the engineer’s control panel when the train passes over the inductor.

The train brakes are automatically applied if the engineer doesn’t push a button acknowledging the alert within about eight seconds.

The expansion of ATS technology is a part of Metrolink’s ongoing effort to enhance public safety.

“As part of Metrolink’s comprehensive public-safety program, Automatic Train Stop will provide greater situational awareness for our engineers and will establish an additional level of protection,” said Metrolink Board Chair Keith Millhouse.

“Inward-facing video cameras, second set of eyes on strategic routes and ATS, working together, will help reduce the risk of collisions along our rail corridors and provide an exceptional safety environment for our passengers and crews.”

– Stefani Peterson

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