Siemens Mobility has been awarded a contract to supply up to 55 new light rail vehicles (LRVs) to Metro Transit for the St. Louis MetroLink network.
These new vehicles will replace ageing rolling stock operating in St. Louis, Missouri.
The Bi-State Development Board of Commissioners approved this 390.4 million USD contract on 29 November. The purchase is partly funded by 196 million USD in federal funding.
Under this contract, Siemens will deliver an initial order of 24 new high-floor LRVs and will also provide project management, support, testing, spare parts, tools, and diagnostic equipment.
“We are entrusted with the great responsibility of connecting people to opportunity. These new vehicles are significant to ensuring the MetroLink system operates efficiently and continues to provide quality service to our customers across the region.”
St. Louis’ MetroLink system currently operates 75 vehicles, more than 20 of which are 30 years old and have each travelled more than one million miles. What’s more, 15 of these vehicles have surpassed the two million-mile mark. Many of these metro cars are therefore operating beyond their expected 25-year service life.
The new light-rail vehicles will transport passengers within on existing MetroLink infrastructure, which spans over 46 miles and will soon serve 39 stations.
“Our existing fleet has lasted far longer than anticipated, a testament to the exceptional work performed by our MetroLink maintenance team over the last 30 years. We will continue to be good stewards of the public funds we receive and take great care of our new MetroLink fleet, so they can help the St. Louis region thrive for years to come.”
In addition to the initial 24 units, the contract also includes an option for Metro Transit to order an additional 31 cars in the future.
