Upgrade to Signal System

Caltrain riders are accustomed to sitting back and enjoying the ride, largely unaware of the complex, technical operations that make their trip trouble-free. Two behind-the-scenes projects currently underway will optimize the signal system, an integral part of Caltrain’s operating system.

Signal Optimization Project

Railroads use signals, which look like traffic lights to the layperson, to communicate critical information to the train engineer. Signals tell engineers when it is safe to proceed, the speed that the train can travel and the position of the switches on the tracks up ahead.

A $2.8 million project to add additional signals to the rail line began in June 2009.

The work, which will be done in signal houses and crossing houses along the Peninsula, is scheduled to be completed in May 2010.

Radio Channel Project

A second $2.1 million project will improve the railroad’s radio communications system. Caltrain transmits data from its dispatching center to 30 “control points” along the right of way. The control points operate switches, which open and close to guide trains from one track to another, as well as signals.

This project, which will be completed by the end of 2009, will increase the capacity of the system by adding a second radio channel.

07/02/09 - crd