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					Positive Train Control (PTC) Fact Sheet
What is PTC?
PTC is technology that can prevent train-to-train collisions, derailments due to excessive speeds, and casualties
or injuries to roadway workers.

How does PTC work?
PTC uses digital communications systems, global positioning system (GPS) technology, and on-board computers
with track databases to continuously monitor train location and speed. PTC is integrated with railroad dispatching
systems to manage train traffic. Unlike reactive systems such as the automatic train stop system currently in
place on the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) corridor, PTC is a proactive system of signal
enforcement that stops a train before a potential collision or accident occurs.

Are all PTC systems the same?
Not all PTC systems are the same. PTC systems may be quite different in sophistication and complexity,
depending on the level of automation and functionality, the system architecture, the wayside system upon which
the PTC system is based, and the degree of train control that the system can assume. Federal legislation passed
in 2008 mandates that PTC systems 1) prevent train-to-train collisions, 2) prevent overspeed derailments by
enforcing speed limits, 3) prevent unauthorized incursions by trains into established work zones, and 4) prevent
movement of a train through a switch left in the wrong position. Moreover, legislation requires that PTC systems
are interoperable with all railroad operators on each corridor.

Is NCTD implementing PTC? If so, where?
NCTD is implementing PTC along the LOSSAN corridor, from Orange County to San Diego.

Is PTC required?
Various railways voluntarily installed PTC systems before President George W. Bush signed the Rail Safety
Improvement Act of 2008. This legislation mandates the installation of PTC systems on railroads with intercity
passengers and on commuter rail services, such as that of NCTD, by December 2015.

When will PTC be fully implemented in North San Diego County?
NCTD submitted the required PTC Implementation Plan in April 2010. NCTD is on target to implement PTC
before the deadline of December 31, 2015.

Where can I obtain additional information?
For additional information on NCTD’s PTC implementation, please contact Deborah Castillo at

January 2013