Quality of Metrorail Radio System, Communications Pose Significant Concerns, FTA Report Says

Among many other problems, the quality of the Washington, D.C., area's Metrorail radio system and radio communications significantly affect the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's ability to schedule and do maintenance work, to manage abnormal and emergency events, and to ensure the safety of trains and personnel on the right-of-way, said a report released Wednesday by the Federal Transit Administration. WMATA’s communications system includes the comprehensive radio communications system, conventional mobile radio systems, Metro transit police mobile data terminals, public safety radio system interfaces, public safety system distributed antenna system, fire and intrusion alarm systems and a yard security system, as well the Metrorail station digital video recorder system and parking garage closed circuit TV, the report said. WMATA views the report as a road map for continuous safety improvements, it said in a statement. "We will strengthen our operations, customer service and safety culture through training, staffing and ensuring compliance of safety policies and procedures," WMATA said. "We remain committed to creating an even safer system."