Florida East Coast Railway Deploys Technology to Streamline Access

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida East Coast Railway (FECR) has deployed an automated gate system to streamline the flow of equipment at its Intermodal Container Transfer Facility (ICTF) adjacent to Port Everglades, Florida.  The system uses optical character recognition technologies to automatically identify trailers, containers, chassis and semi-trucks entering and exiting the terminal.

"FECR's automated gate system uses state-of-the-art technology that results in faster processing times, higher levels of security and no back up at the gate," said Steven Cernak, Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director.  "We take pride in the Port's easy access and quick turnaround, which is why we are happy that FECR made this investment in gate technology."

Cameras capture high resolution images of truck license plates and the identification stenciling on trailers, containers and chassis.  In real-time, a bank of computer servers processes the images with optical character recognition technology, queries FECR's operating and billing systems for matching waybills, and passes the results along for drivers to use on self-service kiosk screens positioned at each gate.

At those kiosks, a driver can scan their commercial driver's license (CDL) to identify himself and receive printed instructions regarding the assigned location to pick up or drop off equipment.  This gate automation reduces delays, increases capacity and provides improved visibility that supports overall yard efficiency at the ICTF.  With cameras capturing all activity at the facility 24 hours a day, seven days a week, these recorded images also add enhanced security.

"When we made the decision to invest in our state-of-the-art ICTF facility, our primary goal was to increase intermodal capacity while facilitating the efficient flow of both domestic and international goods. The automated gate system is just one aspect of the ICTF design that helps our customers and channel partners streamline their transportation processes," said James R. Hertwig, President and CEO of FECR. 

About Florida East Coast Railway
The Florida East Coast Railway ("FEC") is a 351-mile freight rail line located along the east coast of Florida. It is the exclusive rail provider for Port Miami, Port Everglades, and Port of Palm Beach.  FEC connects to the national railroad network in Jacksonville, Florida, and provides carload and door-to-door intermodal solutions across North America to customers who demand cost-effective and premium quality service. For more information, visit www.fecrwy.com.

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SOURCE Florida East Coast Railway