Still no start date for MetroRail

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Capitol Metro announced Friday they have made "significant progress" on MetroRail since their last report, however they have not announced a new start date to the ongoing project.

"We are much closer to announcing a new opening date for the Red Line," said the news release. "However, we will complete the remaining milestones and ensure proper safety and operation of all systems prior to selecting a date to open the service to passengers. Safety has and will continue to be our top priority."

The MetroRail project has come under fire recently after many safety concerns were raised. Also, CapMetro seemed to eternally postpone the start date for the commuter rail until they announced the project would need to address safety concerns before opening to the public.

However, the release states the project is progressing. The following milestones were accomplished since their last report:

• The Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) signal system is in full operation and Rail Dispatchers are utilizing it to direct train operations.
• The signal system, including new work added to the original scope of the project is complete and final crossings adjustments are underway.
• The installation of traffic signal preemption equipment at several crossings adjacent to intersections is complete and final adjustments are underway.
• All MetroRail, freight and Austin Steam Train engineers and supervisors are now certified on the use of the CTC signal system.
• MetroRail trains have begun operating under full-service conditions in the morning, to meet the timelines and stops according to the proposed service schedule but with no passengers aboard.
• MetroRail engineers have begun comprehensive contingency training to prepare and train for unforeseen challenges.

However, a few milestones still need to be accomplished:

• Complete adjustments to crossings and complete final testing for full-serviceoperation.
• Complete full-service test runs to finalize schedules.
• Complete Engineer contingency training.

CapMetro plans to report back to the community in mid-July.