MBTA to purchase 75 bi-level cars from Rotem

Yesterday, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) board approved a $190.2 million contract to purchase 75 bi-level commuter-rail coaches from Rotem USA Corp. Inc.

The ADA-compliant cars will feature more seating capacity and improved lavatory access. MBTA will replace aging single-level coaches to meet increasing service demands.

Rotem expects to deliver four coaches by the end of 2010 and the remainder by 2012. Once the order is filled, MBTA will have 215 bi-level coaches in its fleet.