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| Metrolinx OKs train purchase for rail link to Pearson |
February 18th 2011 | Source: The Canadian Press | Printer friendly
TORONTO
— The board of Metrolinx on Friday approved the purchase of
special trains to carry travellers between Union Station in
downtown Toronto to Pearson International Airport.
The contract with Sumitomo Corp. of America for 12 of the train
cars is worth about $55 million.
Metrolinx says the 12 units will create six two-car trains
capable of carrying 120 people.
The contract would include an option to buy an additional six
vehicles, which would increase its value to $75 million.
Metrolinx says the vehicles are new to North America and are not
made in Canada. They will be made in the United States, but
where possible, Metrolinx will work with the manufacturer to
optimize Canadian content.
Metrolinx says the service will be operational by 2015 and offer
an alternative to the five million car trips that take place
every year between Union Station and Pearson Airport.
"We are excited to be taking the next step towards providing a
link from the busiest airport to the busiest passenger rail hub
in Canada," said Bruce McCuaig, president and CEO of Metrolinx.
"This rail link is a vital transit service for the Greater
Toronto and Hamilton Area, improving traffic congestion and
providing passengers with more travel options across the
region."
But Cheri Di Novo, the provincial NDP's transit critic, said
there is "strong community opposition" to the plan, due to
environmental and health concerns of those who live near the
tracks.
"The health concerns of tens of thousands of residents who live
near the tracks have fallen on deaf ears," DiNovo said.