Metrolink puts its first Tier 4 locomotive on display

Metrolink on Monday showcased its first Tier 4 locomotive at Los Angeles Union Station.

Designed to reduce particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 85 percent, the new unit was built by Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company.

Metrolink's first Tier 4 locomotive
Photo: Metrolink

The unit is the first of 40 such locomotives that will be delivered to the agency through 2017. The total cost for all the units is $280 million.

The new locomotives will meet the Environmental Protection Agency's Tier 4 emission standard.

In 2013, Metrolink became the first U.S. commuter-rail agency to purchase Tier 4 locomotives. The first locomotives are expected to begin operating throughout Metrolink late this year, with the remainder arriving next year.

Metrolink's Tier 4 locomotives are being produced at the EMD plant in Muncie, Ind.

Funding for the new units has been provided through the South Coast Air Quality Management District's Carl Moyer Program and California's Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program. The remaining budget will be funded by Metrolink member agency contributions and other subsidies.