IT Infrastructure Upgrade for Class 1 Railroads
Project scope
Categories
Communications Project management Mobile app development Artificial intelligence NetworkingSkills
operations security it infrastructure mobile application development wide area networks troubleshooting (problem solving) research coordinating geographic information systemsThe main goal for the project is to study and baseline the current IT tools leveraged by CPKC, BNSF and UP in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. This baseline will be compared to new software and hardware applications, and an estimate of the costs to upgrade current Class 1T and a recommended list of improvements to be prioritized will be generated. The project aims to improve operational safety and efficiency for the railroad industry, as well as to address conflicts and service disruptions that arise from changes in population growth and integration of services using Class 1 railroad right of ways.
What tasks will learners need to complete to achieve the project goal?
- Analyze the current IT tools and infrastructure used by CPKC, BNSF, and UP in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest.
- Research and evaluate new software and hardware applications for potential upgrades.
- Estimate the costs for upgrading the current Class 1T IT infrastructure and develop a recommended list of improvements to be prioritized.
- Consider the use of GIS and wayside detection hardware to identify the condition of track, tunnels, bridges, etc.
- Recommend mobile application specifications for stakeholders that may include track maintenance crews, engineering services teams, railroad passengers, and locomotive engineers.
- Determine whether the current WAN shared between Class 1 Railroads and Passenger Rail operators is adequate and the current provides each stakeholder operational security and effective troubleshooting for each NMC. If not, what can be done better?
- Program embedded wireless sensor network for fixed structures including ridges and tunnels.
- Explore data coordination options to improve operational safety of Class 1 Railroads.
- Create a comprehensive table detailing the findings, recommendations, and cost estimates for the IT infrastructure upgrade.
The Board of ITRD has extensive experience and will offer the researchers daily support upon request. ITRD has an extensive library of research papers to draw from. Each researcher will be provided a project email and project software access.
Integrated Travel Research and Development (ITRD) was formed in 2023. It is a registered not-for-profit research organization registered in Alberta and Montana. It develops research projects to be released publicly.
Sustainability is one of the most urgent agenda items for our organizations today, yet it is also one of the most intractable. ITRD's mission is to move the need from "what to do" to "we've got it. Let’s move forward today, not tomorrow"
Supported causes
Industry, innovation and infrastructureAbout the company
“Rail for All” Approach
At Integrated Travel, our goal is to promote transportation equity for all individuals. Through our Integrated Travel approach, we strive to offer accessible and affordable transportation options, irrespective of income or background. By fostering connections between communities and promoting sustainability, we aim to create a future where transportation is fair and inclusive for everyone in Alberta.
We have a special focus on serving underserved communities, including indigenous and rural areas. Our dedication to transportation equity extends to these communities as well.
Our “Rail for All” Approach:
We advocate for a practical and equitable approach to addressing transportation and environmental challenges in Alberta through the implementation of Rail for All. Our focus is on utilizing new technologies on existing rail infrastructure, with the goal of promoting sustainability and responsible transportation.
Rail for All refers to the use of sustainable and cost-effective transportation methods that benefit the communities they serve. In the context of regional rail, this means retrofitting rolling stock and locomotives on existing infrastructure to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
While high-speed rail may be exciting and receive media attention, it is not always the most responsible mode of transportation or investment. The construction and maintenance of high-speed rail lines can be extremely expensive, and the economic impacts may not always align with the needs of the communities they serve.
On the other hand, implementing Rail for All through the retrofitting of existing infrastructure is a more cost-effective and responsible option. It still provides a fast mode of transportation that can bring significant benefits to communities and the environment.
Integrated Travel is a not-for-profit organization that advocates for the needs of rail passengers, prioritizing regional concerns over provincial and international boundaries. To drive change, Integrated Travel collaborates with infrastructure and transportation as well as community stakeholders and supporters. stakeholders to strengthen relationships and bring economic, environmental, and equity benefits to all citizens of Alberta. We advocate for regional inter-municipality transportation network that provides seamless, door-to-door connectivity to everyone in the region. We are not a policy organization - we are a collection of professionals who beleive in building prosperity with equality.
Integrated Travel is looking to reestablish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service in the province. The goal is to increase opportunities and contribute to the health and well-being of people across Alberta.
Integrated Travel believes that a comprehensive passenger rail network, seamlessly connected to other modes of transportation, will yield significant benefits for the region's economy, environment, and more importantly, transportation equity.
Since 2019, Integrated Travel has been actively engaging, educating, and energizing the public, elected officials, businesses, and local leaders. This is accomplished through outreach efforts, Train Treks, presentations for legislators and communities, advocacy work, soliciting support resolutions and letters, publicity initiatives, coalition building, and event planning.
Integrated Travel is a not-for-profit organization that advocates for the needs of rail passengers in Alberta. We prioritize regional concerns and collaborate with infrastructure, transportation, and community stakeholders to bring economic, environmental, and equity benefits to the region. Our goal is to reestablish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service in the province, contributing to the well-being of people across Alberta. We believe that a comprehensive passenger rail network, connected to other modes of transportation, will have significant positive impacts on the region's economy, environment, and transportation equity. Since 2019, we have actively engaged the public, elected officials, businesses, and local leaders through various initiatives to raise awareness and support for our cause.
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