Metra’s eco-friendly trains are revolutionizing the railway industry

Friday, February 23, 2024

The Metra Board of Directors has recently given the green light for the acquisition of eight innovative battery-powered train sets from Stadler, alongside a significant investment in 50 bi-level rail cars from Alstom Transportation.

This move comes as part of a substantial financial boost from the U.S. Department of Transportation, which has allocated $100 million towards this purchase. This is in addition to the 200 Alstom cars previously ordered by the agency, as highlighted by Metra spokesperson Michael Gillis.

Metra has long prioritized the modernization of its fleet. Over the last two decades, it has successfully updated the Metra Electric District trains but continues to operate with cars and locomotives across other lines that are, on average, 34-35 years old. Some of these date back to the 1950s, with a significant portion from the 1970s and 1980s, underscoring the urgent need for renewal.

The anticipated arrival of the battery-powered trains is set for no earlier than 2027. However, the timeline for receiving the Alstom cars remains uncertain due to delays with the initial order, pushing the earliest expected arrival to August 2025.

The deployment of the new Stadler trains is planned for the Rock Island District line’s Beverly branch, while the Alstom cars will replace the fleet’s oldest cars, many of which will serve the three Union Pacific lines. The Stadler trains, distinct from Metra’s traditional designs, will be single-level and equipped with modern amenities such as lifts for wheelchair access, bike racks, luggage racks, and USB chargers, catering to a wide range of passenger needs.

Metra’s order includes an option to purchase additional train sets and trailer cars, potentially increasing the contract’s total cost to $181.4 million, depending on the final number of cars ordered. This expansion would significantly enhance passenger capacity and accessibility.

The funding for this initiative primarily comes from the federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) program, covering 80% of the initial order, with the remainder financed by PAYGO funds from Illinois transit bond sales. The first of these new train cars is expected to be delivered between 2027 and 2028.

This strategic move by Metra not only marks a significant step towards modernizing its fleet but also reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and innovation in public transportation. The introduction of battery-powered and bi-level rail cars is poised to enhance the passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and contribute to environmental conservation.

As such, this initiative is expected to have a profound impact on both global and local tourism, offering tourists and daily commuters alike a more reliable, comfortable, and eco-friendly mode of transport. This evolution in rail travel is anticipated to attract more visitors, thereby boosting tourism and supporting local economies while aligning with global sustainability goals.

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