Brightline announced that its first trainset, BrightBlue, has begun initial testing on its nine-mile test track. The test track testing began on January 19, 2017 and will continue for several weeks.
Comprised of two locomotive and four coaches, the BrightBlue train is approximately 500 feet long. It will traverse the test track from Park Place in West Palm Beach to Central Boulevard in Lantana, periodically stopping between grade crossings (traffic impacts are not anticipated). The extensive testing protocol will cover three general areas: dynamic testing of the rolling stock, system integration tests between the train and railway infrastructure and a series of tests required by the Federal Railroad Administration.
There will not be any passengers onboard while test track testing is underway. The train will operate under all Federal Railroad Administration regulations. During the testing, Brightline will utilize 45,000 pounds of sand to simulate passengers, baggage, and supplies.
“The start of dynamic testing for our first trainset brings us another step closer to the launch of our express, inter-city service this summer,” said Michael Reininger, president of Brightline. “We expect this trainset, built with the most advanced equipment, will perform very well during the initial testing phase.”
Safety is Brightline’s number one priority. BrightBlue will continue operating under the Train Horn Rule during this testing phase. Motorists and pedestrians should adhere to all safety rules and regulations while approaching at-grade railroad crossings. Brightline has placed signage at the grade crossings along the test track alerting motorists and pedestrians to be aware of the train.
