The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has awarded a contract to Alstom to manufacture 316 commuter rail cars for Metro-North Railroad and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Announced on Monday (July 7), the contract is valued at 2 billion euros (2.3 billion USD) and includes an option for up to 242 additional cars, potentially increasing the total contract value by 1.3 billion euros (1.5 billion USD).

The new M-9A passenger vehicles will replace the 40-year-old M-3 cars, offering a quieter, smoother, and more reliable ride. Features of these modern rail cars include USB charging ports, space for wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms. Each car will have two sets of extra-wide doors to facilitate quick boarding and disembarking.

Alstom will produce these cars in its New York facilities, creating nearly 300 jobs across its sites in Hornell and Plattsburgh. The propulsion system will be manufactured in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. According to GlobeNewswire, these jobs will be filled by members of the International Association of Machinists (IAM) union.

The LIRR will receive 160 of the new cars, while Metro-North will receive 156. These cars will meet the MTA’s latest cybersecurity standards and will be electric multiple units (EMUs), eliminating the need for a locomotive on electrified tracks.

Alstom's President of Americas, Michael Keroullé, expressed gratitude to the MTA for their trust and highlighted the positive impact on local communities. The contract is part of Alstom's Adessia commuter rail portfolio, known for its sustainability and adaptability to various climates.

The initiative is expected to boost the economy in upstate New York and enhance the commuting experience for passengers in the region. As RailwayPro reports, the project will increase the total number of commuter and subway cars produced by Alstom for the MTA to approximately 5,400.