Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA, Metro) issued a Request for Proposals for the design and construction of at least 256 8000-series cars which will be delivered starting in 2024. Proposals for the new railcars are due in late January, and Metro expects to award the contract late next year.
They will allow the retirement of the 2000- and 3000-series cars at the end of their 40-year service life.
Options in the contract would allow WMATA to purchase “up to” 800 cars in all, giving the transit agency the flexibility to support a range of initiatives and scenarios, including expanding all trains to the maximum 8-car length, running trains more frequently during rush hours, and retiring the 6000-series fleet in lieu of a midlife overhaul programme.
The 8000-series car design will incorporate the most advanced safety technology available and improve upon the customer experience with new features such as new digital advertising screens, dynamic digital system maps, 110v power outlets for charging electronic devices, as well as additional hand holds improvements to lighting, floor markings and signage for ADA space.
With the 8000-series procurement, WMATA is seeking to build on the success of its 7000-series cars, which currently account for more than half of all trains in service and include popular features such as digital information screens, automated announcements, “smart doors” that individually respond to an obstruction, high-definition security cameras, more space between seats, wider aisles, and non-slip flooring rather than carpet.
“Metro is beginning the multi-year process of acquiring our next railcar fleet, which will take everything our customers love about 7000-series trains and build upon that success. I would take this opportunity to again thank our local jurisdictions-Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia-for creating a dedicated capital funding source for Metro that has made this possible,” Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld said.
Here you can find the RFP
Share on:
