Valley Metro to Purchase Additional Rail Fleet
Valley Metro, the regional transit system in and around the Phoenix, Arizona and metropolitan area, has authorised the purchase of additional rail fleet to support future growth and service expansion.
Awards are being made to two manufacturers:
- Siemens Industry will receive a contract for manufacture of 11 S70 light rail vehicles (LRVs) over a seven year period. Estimated contract value at $57.9 million. There is also an option for purchase of up to 67 additional S70 LRVs.
- Brookville Equipment will receive a contract for manufacture of six off-wire capable, battery propulsion streetcar vehicles over a three year period. Estimated contract value at $33 million.
Increased Ridership
Additional Rail Fleet is needed for anticipated growth in future ridership along the current 26-mile line, as well as expansion of service with the opening of the Gilbert Road Extension in 2019 and several extensions anticipated to open through 2026. Streetcar is scheduled to begin service in 2020.
With the planned expansion of the regional light rail system over the next 20 years, Valley Metro will be expanding the Operations and Maintenance Center to support the additional light rail vehicles and new streetcar fleet. Expansion will also include new storage tracks for light rail vehicles and build out of additional shop and storage facilities.
Valley Metro
Valley Metro provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County including the planning and operations of a regional bus system and the development and operations of 26 miles of light rail. In Fiscal Year 2016, total ridership for the system was 67 million passengers. Seven high capacity transit extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 66-mile system by 2034. Valley Metro also offers transit options including alternative transportation programs for seniors and people with disabilities, commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance. Two Boards of Directors set the policy direction for the agency with the intent of advancing the regional public transit system.
Original article © Valley Metro.
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