Metra aims to replace railcars despite iffy funding
Comfier seats, bigger windows, better heating and electrical outlets are on the distant horizon for Metra riders, although how to pay for all 367 railcars the agency wants is a little hazy.
Metra officials Tuesday asked manufacturers to submit proposals to design and build up to 367 new railcars by June.
It will take about two years to deploy the first cars, which are expected to roll out in 2018.
So far Metra's got funding in its 2016 budget for 10 new cars. Costs range from $3 million each for trailer cars and $3.5 million for more high-tech cab cars, which are equipped to control the train when it's being pushed by a locomotive.
Reaching the goal of 367 railcars will need a big assist from federal and state aid, and that's problematic with Illinois' budget crisis.
If federal or state funding materializes, the agency would aim to bring 106 new cars online in 2018 and 2019, then 261 more by the end of 2024.
Metra has embarked on a $2.4 billion capital plan that includes buying cars and locomotives. The program will be partially paid for by fare increases. The railroad intends to borrow about $400 million.
Railcar features are expected to include brighter lighting, nonskid floors, more bathrooms, plug-in outlets, bigger windows and an improved public address system.
Whether the seats would be reversible or fixed could depend on rider reaction to new seats being tested this year that don't move. Commuters can comment online at http://metrarail.com.