“My heart goes out to all of those families affected by these incidents. Their loved ones were maimed or killed because Metro North did not do its job. This report is alarming. It is clear the track maintenance program was poorly run, nearly non-existent and pushed aside with no regard for long term consequences.
“The NTSB) report into five accidents over a 10 month period along the Metro North rail line shows there is a true lack of oversight on Metro North’s behalf. These incidents could have been avoided.
“Under new management and because of public outcry from concerned commuters Metro North has begun to make improvements and has stated its commitment to enhance safety.
“I would encourage them to continue to work on making these critical changes to their safety and oversight policies. I am also calling on our federal delegation to introduce legislation in Congress that requires an overhaul of rail safety laws. We as a nation should enforce and enhance safety and reliability on this vital rail line.
“Technology like the use of redundant signal protections and positive train control systems can help tremendously in the effort to bring this line up to modern day safety standards.
“Connecticut’s New Haven Line is an extremely important asset to the state and nation. We should all work together to make sure it is taken care of and preserved for future generations of people who will depend on its safety and reliability.”
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