CSX replaces poles with microprocessor-based signal systems

CSX is making significant progress with its multiyear pole line elimination program, a systemwide effort to retire outdated aerial signal and communication lines and transition to modern technologies, the Class I announced this week. 

Pole-based systems formed the backbone of railroad communications for decades, but today such aging structures pose challenges: They are vulnerable to severe weather, difficult to maintain along the right-of-way and can affect service reliability, CSX officials said in a press release.

Replacing the old infrastructure reduces risk, strengthens safety and creates a cleaner, more efficient operating environment, they said.

So far, CSX has removed more than 7,000 miles of pole lines across multiple subdivisions. The railroad's communications and signals team is leading the modernization initiative, which focuses on installing microprocessor-based signal systems that use the rail itself for train detection and track integrity verification.

These systems enhance performance and support advanced safety technologies, including positive train control. CSX released this video about the pole line elimination program.