The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has signed a $115.5m contract with Alstom to overhaul its ageing train control and rail safety systems in the Atlanta region in the US state of Georgia, according to Railway Technology.

The contract also includes a provision for two, five-year contract options for Alstom to provide additional maintenance support of the systems.

Alstom will implement an integrated operational platform that will direct train movement, control traction power and monitor station functions.

The project will be complete in about five years.

The work will improve MARTA's train and supervisory control and data acquisition systems, which will allow MARTA's rail service control centre to safely direct train movements and deliver timely system and equipment field information.

Upon completion, the project will improve rail service delivery for MARTA customers.