The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is moving forward with a new safety pilot aimed at detecting intrusions on rail tracks in real-time. The Chicago Transit Board has approved an agreement with Sensonic Inc., a global leader in fiber-optic sensing, to test a cutting-edge system that could help prevent accidents and reduce delays across the CTA network.
This pilot marks the second initiative under the CTA Innovation Studio to explore technologies that enhance safety on the rail right-of-way (ROW). The approved system will use Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) – a method that monitors acoustic vibrations via CTA’s existing fibre-optic cables – to identify when a person or object enters the track area.
“Intrusions onto CTA rail tracks cause service disruptions and can be a deadly, life-changing mistake,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “With this pilot, we are researching a second technology that has the potential to create a safer environment for our riders, reduce delays, and improve service reliability.”
How does the Sensonic technology work
The DAS system analyses light scattering changes in optical fibers caused by acoustic vibrations. It can differentiate between the normal movements of a passing train and unusual vibrations caused by a person or object entering the tracks. If an intrusion is detected, a real-time alert will notify CTA staff to intervene immediately.
One of the system’s major benefits is its coverage range. A single device can monitor up to 50 miles of track, making it scalable for future applications across multiple parts of the network.
During the pilot’s feasibility phase, CTA and Sensonic will identify a suitable location to install the system – whether on elevated tracks, at-grade, or underground in the subway. The goal is to evaluate how well the system performs across different operating environments.
“Sensonic is proud to bring cutting-edge fiber optic sensing technology to the CTA,” said Sensonic CEO Ashish Upadhyay. “By combining Distributed Acoustic Sensing and AI, we’re enabling real-time detection of trackside intrusions and fallen objects along the corridor. This actionable intelligence is key to building safer, smarter, and more resilient transit systems.”
Sensonic brings international experience to the project, having worked with rail agencies in Austria, Brazil, Czechia, India, Portugal, and Spain. The company has helped monitor intrusions from people, large objects, and even animals on tracks in varied environments.
For the CTA, the pilot offers an opportunity to test the system’s reliability before any broader implementation. The project is funded by a USD 110,700 stipend, paid in two phases:
- Phase 1: Covers feasibility testing, evaluation, and the purchase and installation of test equipment.
- Phase 2: Covers hardware installation at a selected site and a license for the real-time alert system.
Updates on the pilot’s progress will be presented to the Chicago Transit Board later this year.
Broader innovation programme
This pilot is part of CTA’s wider Innovation Studio programme, which is testing multiple new technologies aimed at improving rider experience and operational efficiency. Other current pilots include:
- Digital Signage: In partnership with GDS and Papercast, CTA is testing solar- and battery-powered digital signs that display real-time bus arrival information.
- AI Camera Detection: In collaboration with STV, CTA is piloting a camera-based system that also detects intrusions on rail ROW using artificial intelligence.
These pilots reflect CTA’s broader strategy of leveraging emerging technologies to modernise public transport, improve safety, and enhance service reliability.
“A proven solution to detect and respond to right-of-way intrusions in real-time would prevent service delays and help ensure a safe trip for everyone,” CTA said in its announcement.
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