ANTONOVICH CALLS FOR RAIL SAFETY AND INFRASTRUCTURE REFORM

 

 

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

Contact:  Tony Bell, Communications Deputy    Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich    Office:  (213) 974-5555   Cell: (213) 215-5176    E-mail:  tbell@bos.lacounty.gov

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

September 16, 2008                                                                                                   For Immediate Release

 

ANTONOVICH CALLS FOR RAIL SAFETY

AND INFRASTRUCTURE REFORM

 

LOS ANGELES COUNTY – In the wake of the deadliest rail crash in Southern California history, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich’s motion calling for funding to improve rail safety and the rail infrastructure.

 

Los Angeles County is home to the largest ports in the United States which handle 40% of all containers entering and exiting the country, it also has an excess of demand on its rails for both passenger and freight trains.

 

“It must be a top priority to better coordinate passenger and freight trains and implement advanced safety measures and infrastructure improvements,” said Antonovich.

 

The Supervisor’s motion calls for increased train coordination and communication technology, grade separations, double tracking and the expansion of track and straightening of track, improved signals, and pilot programs to test new technologies. 

 

“Technological advances must be explored, tested, and developed to determine how they can be employed to improve safety for our rail passengers in Los Angeles County and across the nation, added Antonovich. 

 

Additionally, the motion directs the CEO to send a 5-signature letter to all members of our state and congressional delegations, as well as the appropriate federal agencies and leaders, informing them of Los Angeles County’s request for funding to improve our rail system safety.

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