FR 2021-01952

Union Pacific Railroad Company (UP) has petitioned the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for approval to discontinue or modify its automatic train control (ATC) and automatic cab signal (ACS) systems. This request, dated January 14, 2021, comes with the assertion that switching to a more advanced positive train control (PTC) system, combined with updated operational rules and enhanced switch equipment, will offer increased safety benefits. The petition is publicly accessible through the regulations.gov website, and the FRA is seeking written public comments by March 15, 2021. If a public hearing is deemed necessary, stakeholders must request it before the comment deadline.

Key Issues and Concerns

While the document outlines UP's intentions and the basis for the petition, several notable issues warrant consideration. First, it lacks specific details regarding the cost implications or potential financial savings linked to the discontinuation or modification of the current signal systems. This omission could hinder a comprehensive understanding of the financial ramifications for various stakeholders, including UP itself and others who may be affected by these changes.

Furthermore, the petition only minimally addresses potential risks associated with discontinuing the ATC/ACS systems. It claims that the PTC system ensures superior safety, but does not provide detailed safety evaluations or any thorough risk assessment. Such information would be critical for assessing whether the transition is genuinely beneficial in safety terms.

The procedural instructions for public participation are somewhat complex and may deter individuals, particularly those without a background in regulatory processes, from engaging effectively with the consultation process. Simplifying these instructions or providing additional guidance could facilitate broader public involvement.

Lastly, the document lacks a detailed timeline or milestones beyond the general statement that the work is expected to be completed in 2021. More specific target dates could enhance transparency and allow for better tracking of the project’s progress.

Public and Stakeholder Impact

The proposed changes could impact the public in several ways. For the broader community, the assurance of improved safety through the PTC system might bring peace of mind regarding rail transport reliability and safety. However, the absence of detailed risk assessments might raise concerns about unforeseen problems, particularly among those residing near train lines or frequent rail users.

For specific stakeholders such as UP, this transition might streamline operations and reduce long-term maintenance costs associated with outdated systems. However, other parties, like local governments and passenger advocacy groups, might be wary of the unknown potential impacts of these systemic changes, emphasizing the need for transparent communication and exhaustive evaluation.

Union Pacific's petition and the FRA's response highlight the dynamic nature of transportation safety regulations, driven by technological advancements in railway systems. While advancements such as PTC may promise enhanced safety, any transition involving critical infrastructure should be approached with a thorough understanding of both benefits and risks. Robust stakeholder engagement is essential to ensure these measures achieve their intended outcomes while addressing all concerns.