On September 14, 2020 the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that CTrail Hartford Line System Safety Program Plan (SSPP), submitted by TransitAmerica Services Inc./Alternate Concepts (TASI), was approved by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This is the first SSPP to be approved by the FRA in the country. It was submitted to the FRA on July 9, 2020.
“The System Safety Program Plan is a guidebook on how to safely operate a passenger railroad and it just shows how much everyone here at TASI is committed to passenger safety,” said Tom McCarthy, TASI General Manager. “As you are doubtless aware, we have had many challenges getting this done in these times, but as always the team pulled it off.”
“Being the first in the nation in anything is noteworthy. Being the first in the nation in safety planning is something truly special. It shows a dedication and a commitment to a culture of safety by our service provider. TASI should be proud of this accomplishment,” stated CTDOT Commissioner Joe Giulietti. “The timing of this approval could not be more appropriate, it’s a great way to lead into National Railroad Safety Week.” National Railroad Safety Week is September 21 through September 27, 2020.
The passenger rail services in the state are beginning to recover ridership from the decline in March and April due to the pandemic. As the state enters the next phases of reopening and in anticipation of increased ridership, CTDOT has increased the cleaning of trains and station facilities to keep frontline employees and passengers safe. Rail passengers should remember to wear a mask and maintain the recommended 6 feet social distancing while on board the trains and at the stations. People who feel sick should not use public transportation. These preventative measures will help maintain a safe and healthy travel experience for all.
Information about all rail services in Connecticut is available at CTrail.com.