Amtrak to install automatic braking system on Downeaster [Video]

Amtrak is investing $50 million into safety measures for the Amtrak Downeaster, including automatic braking technology.

Railroad company CSX already has begun work on the more than 100 miles of tracks between Brunswick and Haverhill, Massachusetts. Amtrak expects work to be completed in spring 2026.

It was not clear if the work will result in delays to service.

“CSX will work with Amtrak during the construction phase to try and minimize any disruptions to Amtrak’s service,” CSX spokesperson Sheriee Bowman said.

Called positive train control, or PTC, the safety technology uses GPS and sensors to automatically stop trains before they collide or derail.

CSX describes PTC as a “safety overlay system.” It works by first alerting train crews to possible collisions or derailments. Then, if the crew does not take action to stop the train, PTC kicks in and brings the train to a stop.

The project also will add …