Wireless system will eliminate gate activation prior to a train’s station stop
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. — Southern California commuter rail operator Metrolink has debuted new “smart crossing” technology at a San Juan Capistrano grade crossing, seeking to eliminate the activation of crossing gates when a train approaches a station and stops before reaching the crossing.
The technology, known as a Wireless Crossing Nearside Station Stop, was made possible through a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements, or CRISI, grant. It was deployed as of June 1 at the Del Obispo Street crossing near the San Juan Capistrano station. Its introduction will reduce wait times and deter dangerous behavior such as drivers and pedestrians bypassing activated crossing gates.
“Installing WCNSS systems at railway crossings near stations is a crucial step forward that underscores Metrolink’s commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of our infrastructure,” Doug Chaffee, Metrolink board vice chair, said in a press release. “Not only will this innovative technology alleviate frustration and improve the safety of San Juan Capistrano residents, it will also benefit communities across Metrolink’s system as it becomes more prevalent.”
Initially, the system will prevent southbound Metrolink trains stopping at San Juan Capistrano from activating the crossing gates and signal until it leaves the station. It does not yet cover Pacific Surfliner trains, although plans to expand it to include those trains are ongoing. Metrolink is working with local, state, and federal agencies toward a long-term goal of installing the system at 42 crossings located within a half-mile
The San Juan Capistrano crossing joins seven WCNSS crossings on the Metrolink network in San Bernardino and Redlands, which have been in operation since the Arrow service between those two communities began operating in October 2022.
