Metro Transit has announced plans to upgrade its fleet of MetroLink units with 55 new, state-of-the-art light rail vehicles (LRVs) from Siemens. The new vehicles are currently in the design phase at Siemens’ facility in Sacramento, California, and are expected to be delivered by 2027. The upgrade is made possible by a $196.2 million grant awarded by the Federal Transit Administration in 2023.
The new LRVs will feature advanced operating systems and modern amenities, providing a significant improvement over the current fleet. Many of the existing vehicles have been in operation since the 1990s, with some dating back to the launch of the MetroLink system in 1993. The new vehicles will enter service on the MetroLink network in 2027, offering a more efficient and comfortable experience for passengers.
The replacement of the aging MetroLink LRVs is a significant investment in the future of the MetroLink system. The new vehicles will provide improved reliability, efficiency, and passenger amenities, making the system more attractive to riders. The upgrade is also expected to support the continued growth and development of the region, by providing a modern and efficient public transportation system.
The new LRVs will be designed and built by Siemens, a leading manufacturer of rail vehicles. The company has a long history of producing high-quality, reliable vehicles, and the new MetroLink LRVs are expected to meet the highest standards of performance and safety. With the delivery of the new vehicles planned for 2027, Metro Transit is taking a significant step towards modernizing its fleet and providing a better experience for its passengers.
Overall, the upgrade of the MetroLink fleet is an exciting development for the region, and demonstrates Metro Transit’s commitment to providing a modern and efficient public transportation system. The new LRVs will provide a range of benefits, including improved reliability, efficiency, and passenger amenities, and will help to support the continued growth and development of the region.