Don’t Rush Robot Train Onto Tracks, MTA Urged
By Rich Schapiro, Daily News, New York
Apr. 23–The MTA’s own consultants are concerned that the agency is rushing plans to bring computer-run trains into passenger service, according to a report obtained by the Daily News.
Consultants from the firm Carter & Burgess say that the Communication Based Train Control system should undergo a more thorough evaluation before it begins servicing straphangers on the L line this September.
“The latest plan dramatically accelerates the rollout … with minimal or little time to evaluate the system’s performance,” according to the report, which will be presented to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Monday.
The futuristic computer-operated system uses a central control room to monitor each train’s location and speed, enabling them to run closer together and therefore increasing service. The new technology also allows one person to run the train alone, instead of requiring an operator and conductor as trains do now.
Last January, two trains began running on a section of the L line that were being supervised by computers, but were still controlled by an operator.
Asked about the consultants’ report, MTA spokesman Tom Kelly said: “We would implement nothing that would jeopardize the safety of our passengers and employees.”
But transportation advocates worry the MTA is pushing too quickly to get the fully computer-operated trains in service.
“It’s just troubling that they would try to push it forward when there are technical concerns, community concerns and their own consultant is questioning the wisdom of it,” said Gene Russianoff, staff attorney for the Straphanger’s Campaign.
The consultants note in their report that in the latest plan nearly 75 percent of the L line will be ready for the computer-operated trains after only four weeks. But they say that’s too little time considering the original timeline was “a five- to six- month period.”
Teresa Toro, transportation chairwoman for Community Board 1, which includes Williamsburg and Greenpoint, said the testing of the automated system has hampered service on the L line and created a “mess” for residents and local businesses.
MTA officials have said L train disruptions should stop by the end of the summer.
Toro added the community was up in arms after an MTA official announced at a board meeting last week that no new L trains were on order. “You will only get more service if you get more trains,” Toro said. “It really does seem like the L ridership is getting nothing for quite a lot of grief.”
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