The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Fiscal and Management Control Board recently awarded Hyundai-Rotem a $278.5 million contract for 80 commuter rail bi-level coaches.
The coaches will replace single-level coaches and increase capacity by more than 14,000 seats daily. They also will feature LED lighting and positive train control.
The coaches will be compatible with the existing fleet and infrastructure, requiring minimal operating and maintenance training and minimal design impacts.
“As ridership on the commuter rail system continues to climb, our customers have made it very clear that additional capacity is necessary,” MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak said. “This procurement method is the fastest and most efficient way to meet the growing demand and provide our riders with improved service.”
The coaches are expected to be delivered between September 2022 and June 2024.
The total budget for the project is $345 million. Phase two is the purchase of up to 100 additional bi-level coaches. The control board will award a contract in November 2020 with the coaches delivered between July 2024 and June 2027.
The control board also awarded WSP USA a $41 million contract for engineering and program management services. WSP USA works in close cooperation with VP Engineering and Keville Enterprises.