The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system in the US has received a grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to develop a new technology for the protection of trackside workers.

The $5m investment is expected to help in developing a new system that offers better protection than the existing trackside alarm technology, which automatically stops an approaching train when required.

BART Board president Tom Blalock said: "We have high hopes for this project. Not only could it save lives here at BART, but we believe it can also protect track workers at any rail system nationwide once we have successfully demonstrated this technology."

"We believe it can also protect track workers at any rail system nationwide once we have successfully demonstrated this technology."

This two-year project aims to develop a technology that connects trackside workers’ warning devices with trains and the BART Operations Control Center.

According to BART, the project will begin with system development and conclude with a final demonstration.

Congresswoman Lee said: "These funds will provide BART workers with needed security as they fulfil their duties to ensure safe, reliable and environmentally friendly transit around East Bay and the entire region."

However, BART will follow requirements of California Public Utilities Commission’s General Order 175 until the new system starts delivering service.

In October last year, BART selected a Parsons/Acumen joint venture (APJV) for a five-year contract to deliver general engineering services.

Consisting of 11 sub-consultants, APJV will provide top-flight services such as architectural, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and systems project work.