Metrolinx bus purchase to improve service and create jobs

TORONTO, Nov. 24, 2014 /CNW/ -  Metrolinx has signed an agreement with Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) to purchase 253 fully accessible, low floor, double-decker buses to provide better GO bus service and create up to 30 new full-time jobs in Ontario. 

Under the agreement, ADL will supply and deliver the 253 buses over the next five years and establish a bus chassis assembly facility in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area that will create up to 30 full-time jobs. Construction of the chassis facility is expected to begin in mid-2015 and the first order of buses is expected by 2016. If needed, there is an option for Metrolinx to purchase an additional 150 buses over the five-year contract, up to 30 per year.

The buses will support service growth throughout the region and will ensure continued service reliability for GO Transit customers by replacing older vehicles at the end of their lifecycle. With a lower height, they will enable higher capacity service on all of GO Transit's bus routes since they will be able to access four major terminals that cannot be served by existing double-decker buses due to height restrictions — Hamilton, Yorkdale, York Mills and the Union Station bus terminals.

"We believe everyone should have access to fast, convenient and integrated transit," said Metrolinx President and CEO Bruce McCuaig. "These buses represent the future of our bus fleet and set a new standard for the service we provide. Their lower floors will allow customers with limited mobility to board with ease, and their lower height will allow us to bring double-decker service to all of our routes."

"The agreement to purchase 253 new buses is part of Ontario's plan to make taking public transit even more attractive and will bring jobs to Ontario," said Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation. "This is proof of our government's commitment to making the daily commute and quality of life better for Ontario families, and creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives."

"We are delighted to be working with Metrolinx on this further multi-year agreement," said Robert Davey, Group Commercial and Business Development Director at ADL. "Our relationship goes back to 2007, and we currently have nearly 125 ADL double decks operating in the Toronto area. This latest contract will add significantly to that number, demonstrating that high-capacity double decks are not only popular with passengers but can make a unique contribution at the heart of sophisticated transport systems."

Each bus will also come equipped with the following accessibility improvements:

• a lower floor and a longer, more gradual entrance ramp for easier boarding and exiting
• a wider area for individuals with wheeled mobility devices to manoeuvre and 120V charging outlets for motorized wheelchairs
• automated next-stop announcements and displays.

This purchase is part of Metrolinx's regional transportation plan to provide residents and businesses in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area with fast, convenient and integrated transit. Working through its divisions GO Transit, PRESTO, and Union Pearson Express, Metrolinx is transforming the way the region moves.

Visit www.metrolinx.com for more information.

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SOURCE: Metrolinx

Media contact: Malon Edwards, Media Relations, [phone]