Federal Register #FRA-2026-2444

FRA review of BNSF request to remove fixed derails from a PTC-protected signal system

The Federal Railroad Administration is reviewing BNSF Railway Company’s request to change a signal system at the Fort Madison movable bridge in Illinois. - Government buyer: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration, Signal, Train Control, and Crossings Division. - Requesting company: BNSF Railway Company. - Requested action: Approval to remove fixed derails from interlockings on main tracks 1 and 2, between mileposts 232.6 and 231.2, ahead of the Fort Madison movable bridge on the Chillicothe Subdivision. - Key safety rationale: BNSF states that fully operational Positive Train Control (PTC) provides the safety function previously served by the derails, making them redundant and potential failure points. - This is a regulatory review and request for public comment, not a purchase of products or services. No OEMs, products, quantities, or part numbers are identified.

Description

BNSF Railway Company petitioned the Federal Railroad Administration for approval to modify a signal system by removing fixed derails on a line segment protected by Positive Train Control. The requested removals are at the Fort Madison movable bridge on the Chillicothe Subdivision in Illinois, from interlockings on main tracks Nos. 1 and 2 between mileposts 232.6 and 231.2. BNSF states that Positive Train Control fulfills the safety function of the derails, making them redundant and a potential failure point. Comments are due by December 21, 2026.

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