BART Technology and Innovation Flashcards

What is the purpose of BART's electronic variable message signs (VMS) on Bay Area freeways?

Answer: To display BART real-time departure times to encourage drivers to park and take BART

BART partners with Caltrans to display real-time BART departure times on freeway variable message signs, giving drivers the option to switch to transit.

What major communication infrastructure upgrade did BART undertake to improve safety communications?

Answer: Installing a Digital Radio System to replace aging analog radios for staff and emergency communications

BART modernized its communications infrastructure with a digital radio system, improving reliability and clarity of communications among operators, dispatchers, and emergency responders.

How has BART used technology to improve accessibility at its stations?

Answer: By installing tactile guidance systems, audio announcements, and accessible fare gates for passengers with disabilities

BART has implemented tactile pavement, audio announcements, accessible elevator systems, and compliant fare gates to meet ADA requirements and improve accessibility for all riders.

What is BART's approach to cybersecurity given its reliance on networked control systems?

Answer: BART has a dedicated cybersecurity program to protect operational and passenger data systems

As a critical infrastructure provider, BART maintains dedicated cybersecurity programs to protect its operational technology and passenger data from emerging threats.

What technology does BART use at fare gates to detect and prevent fare evasion?

Answer: Sensors, gate mechanism upgrades, and gate height extensions to make jumping harder

BART has upgraded fare gates with improved sensors and taller barriers to make fare evasion more difficult as part of its broader fare evasion reduction effort.

How does BART's Core Capacity project aim to improve system technology and throughput?

Answer: By upgrading signaling, communications, and infrastructure to allow more trains per hour on key corridors

The Core Capacity project upgrades BART's signaling and communications systems to reduce headways and run more trains through the busiest core segments of the network.