Valley Metro Awards Manufacturers for Light Rail and Streetcar Fleet
The Valley Metro Rail Board has authorized the purchase of 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.
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.
