TTC Unveils Sleek New Subway Trains
Posted October 14, 2010 5:42 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
All three levels of government gathered in Toronto Thursday to unveil a line of subway trains that will make for a less crowded and more accessible ride on the Yonge line by the end of the year.
The first set of sleek new cars – dubbed the Toronto Rocket – took four years and $236.7 million to complete. They each hold 120 more people than the old trains and have more open entrances and gangways for traveling from one end of the train to the other. Further easing overcrowding, the trains will run closer together once a new computerized signalling system is installed.
“The Toronto Rocket trains are part of the TTC’s long-term plan to renew its fleets,” said TTC chair Adam Giambrone.
“In the last five years, more than 1,500 new buses have been ordered, and last year the TTC ordered 204 new streetcars to replace its aging fleet. This is a proud moment for the future of transit in Toronto.”
Poles on the new trains will be coated with an anti-microbial layer; three seats inside the door flip up for accessibility, and closed-circuit cameras and other emergency features have been installed for added security.
In 2006, the TTC awarded the contract for 39 trains (or 234 cars) to Bombardier Inc., a controversial decision because there was no bidding process. But outgoing Mayor David Miller defended the move at Downsview Station on Thursday.
“I’m incredibly proud of these new generation subway cars and of our ability to support Canadian jobs in the process,” said Miller.
“Public transit is the most efficient and greenest way to move people, and these cars will make the transit experience even better.”
Ottawa has promised $92.3 million over five years. Ontario’s part is $83.7 million. And the city is providing $60.7 million.
The new fleet should be completed by 2014.
