Subway Safety Upgrades

[trainman8119]

From our friend Mr. Hilkevich in the Tribune.

Interesting to note in the article though :

CTA train operators are also now equipped with cell phones to communicate with the transit agency's control center in the event that radio communications are disrupted. Train operators have received training to reinforce the policy that they keep riders informed during a service stoppage or emergency.

Funny how in the light of all the stuff regarding the recent California derailment/texting debacle that CTA would let their operators have cell phones. I am sure there are rules in place as to their use. However, it should be noted that Metra consficated all the beloved nextels that were given to engineers (so there is no question), and notices from the FRA (of which the CTA is not goverend) note that potential criminal prosecution can result if an engineer is found to have a cell phone turned on in the cab of an operational engine (or cab car).

[artthouwill]

From our friend Mr. Hilkevich in the Tribune.

Interesting to note in the article though :

Funny how in the light of all the stuff regarding the recent California derailment/texting debacle that CTA would let their operators have cell phones. I am sure there are rules in place as to their use. However, it should be noted that Metra consficated all the beloved nextels that were given to engineers (so there is no question), and notices from the FRA (of which the CTA is not goverend) note that potential criminal prosecution can result if an engineer is found to have a cell phone turned on in the cab of an operational engine (or cab car).

Perhaps theyare basic Nextels that have been programmed to connect with the control center. Or maybe they are assigned a cell phone at the beginning of their shift (they may have to sign for it when taking it out and returning it and be charged or disciplined if any calls other than control center calls are found on the phone).