This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
7/30/2024
Pittsburgh Regional Transit's (PRT) board recently took the first step toward purchasing new light-rail vehicles by approving a resolution that authorizes the agency to submit a letter of interest to the federal Build America Bureau for the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Investment Act program.
The federal loan program enables transit agencies to borrow up to 49% of the cost for eligible projects.
The average age of a rail car in PRT's existing fleet is 33 years.
"Although our current fleet of rail cars are in good condition for their age, it's clear that modernization is necessary as we prepare for the future," said PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman in a news release. "This is a long process, but submitting this letter of interest is the first step that will allow us to move this vision to reality."
PRT estimates the cost of new rail cars at $750 million, with the remainder of the funds to come from bond issuances. The agency also plans to pursue grant opportunities.
The new rail procurement process is expected to take about 12 years.