ANTONOVICH CALLS ON MTA TO ADOPT MASTER PLAN TO IMPROVE RAIL SAFETY

 

 

 

 

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 17, 2008                                                                                         For Immediate Release

 

ANTONOVICH CALLS ON MTA TO ADOPT

MASTER PLAN TO IMPROVE RAIL SAFETY

 

LOS ANGELES COUNTY –-Directors Michael D. Antonovich and Ara Najarian have introduced a motion to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to develop and adopt a comprehensive County Commuter/Freight Rail Master Plan to identify and implement rail safety and infrastructure upgrades.

 

“This motion will create a countywide blueprint for action including MTA’s advocacy efforts and prioritization of rail safety and infrastructure upgrades,” said Antonovich. 

 

The motion will direct the MTA to identify and evaluate technological improvements --including positive train control, upgraded signals, communication devices between trains, and cameras -- and infrastructure upgrades including grade separations, track straightening, tunnel improvements, new track and improved highway/rail crossings. This motion also calls for a state and federal advocacy plan that will identify and secure increased funding, pilot programs and other appropriate resources to improve safety for the rail infrastructure in the county.

 

“With freight movement through the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach expected to triple in the next 30 years,  the increased demand on our rail network for moving freight and passengers requires that we take action now to improve safety and prevent accidents in the future,” added Antonovich.

 

The motion will be considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the MTA on Thursday, September 25, 2008.

 

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