Miami-Dade places first new train in 30-plus years into service

For the first time since the Metrorail system opened its doors to passengers back in 1984, the Miami-Dade County, Fla.'s Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) placed its first new train into service on Nov. 30, 2017 — ushering in a new era of modern, high-tech trains manufactured by Hitachi Rail Italy that will improve both service reliability and overall riding experience.

Funded by approximately $313.8 Million in surtax funds from People’s Transportation Plan, this is the first four-car train of 136 cars that will make up the new Metrorail fleet, which will greatly improve the quality of service of the Metrorail system. The replacement of the Metrorail fleet is being expedited and Hitachi Rail has increased the number of crews performing testing.

Each new rail car features:

•    Automated announcements with upgraded sound

•     Digital signs displaying the name of the next station

•     Four digital monitors for extensive media content

•     High capacity, high-speed Wi-Fi (252 passengers can surf the web while on board)

•     Interior bicycle racks

•     Security cameras

•     Energy efficient LED lighting

“Thanks to Hitachi Rail, the Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust, and DTPW staff, we were able to place the first Metrorail train into service just 20 months after assembly began," said DTPW Director Alice N. Bravo, PE. "Moving forward, as new Metrorail trains are phased in, riders will begin to see improvements in service and enjoy a more comfortable ride."

By July 2018, DTPW anticipates to have half of the cars needed to operate at peak levels replaced. By the end of 2019, DTPW will have all the new rail cars needed for peak-revenue service.