San Diego light rail extension project finds supplier for automation and power technology

Credit: Mid-Coast Transit Constructors

These 10.9 miles of new light rail commuter lines will provide riders with additional access into San Diego while reducing traffic congestion.

A Siemens overhead catenary system and track-side substations will power the new line while advanced rail automation technologies and signalling systems will ensure thesafe and efficient operation of the light rail vehicles.

“Siemens is thrilled to expand our partnership with MTS and San Diego, a region that has long-benefitted from both our rail infrastructure systems like electrification and automation, but also our Sacramento-built light rail vehicles that have been running for over 35 years,” said Marsha Smith, Country Division Controller, Siemens Mobility. “Though riders can’t often see rail electrification and automation technologies in the same way they experience the light rail vehicles themselves, these systems play an essential role in ensuring that trains are running on-time and, importantly, keeping passengers safe.”

The overhead catenary system and substation technologies will convert AC power to DC in order to operate the light rail vehicles as efficiently as possible. In addition, Siemens rail automation technologies will provide SDMTS with insight on vehicle location and operation status in order to safely manage train movement along the expanded system.

The Mid-Coast Corridor line is projected to open in January 2021.