NJ Transit gets extension for positive train control

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Transit has received official approval for a two-year extension to finish implementing a required emergency braking system on its trains and tracks.

Federal regulators sent a letter this week saying NJ Transit met six key criteria by the end of December.

The agency and several other railroad operators around the country have sought and received extensions past the original Dec. 31, 2018 deadline mandated by the federal government.

The system, called positive train control, can automatically stop a train when its engineer is incapacitated or unable to operate controls.

Hardware installation throughout 2018 forced NJ Transit to reduce service last fall, angering commuters.

Engineer shortages and unexcused absences led to further service cancellations that also led to rider discontent.