FRA eases track inspection rules nationwide
The Federal Railroad Administration finalized a rule on Dec. 5, 2025, allowing railroads to reduce some manual track inspections if they use approved technology to detect defects. The nationwide change applies to rail lines that run through the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, shifting more inspection responsibility to sensors and automated systems while the FRA says safety standards will be maintained.
📌 Key Facts
- Federal Railroad Administration finalized the rule on Dec. 5, 2025
- Rule permits fewer manual inspections when qualified automated detection technologies are used
- Applies to freight and passenger rail corridors serving the Twin Cities