Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and other elected officials announced plans for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's Fairmount Line, linking Boston's South Station with Boston's Readville neighborhood, to become a more efficient "commuter rail" line byemploying diesel multiple-unit (DMU) equipment.
The announcement Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014, includes plans to purchase up to 30 new DMU cars for the line, estimated to cost $240 million. MBTA claims the change will allow greater frequency than diesel-hauled passenger coaches used by most of its regional rail system. Weekend service will be included.
DMU service on the Fairmount Line -- also called the Dorchester Branch -- is touted by supporters for offering a "one-seat ride" to downtown locations, eliminating the need for many passengers in the service area to transfer to and from the T Red Line, or by bus to the T Orange Line.
MBTA expects delivery of the first DMU cars in 2018. A request for proposals (RFP) is expected to be issued in December.
The announcement on Wednesday came as Massachusetts Department of Transportation on Wednesday approved a $566.6 million contract for CNR Changchun to supply 284 rapid transit cars for Boston's "T" system's Red Line and Orange Line.
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