THE Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDoT) has confirmed a $US 315m order with Alstom for the supply of 60 single-deck commuter coaches, with options to order 313 more as part of the state’s rolling stock renewal programme. Delivery of the first coaches is expected to begin in 2026.
Based on Alstom’s Adessia EMU platform, ConnDoT says the new coaches will operate at up to 200km/h and will be prioritised for deployment on the Hartford Line, as well as the branches of the New Haven Line.
The coaches will feature a two-by-two seating configuration with folding tables and provision for passengers using mobility aids, as well as overhead luggage racks, workstation tables and a bicycle storage area. Passengers will have Wi-Fi access, and the new coaches will also feature real-time passenger information displays, power and USB sockets, panoramic balcony-style windows at wheelchair spaces and “the most current cybersecurity safety features.”
In addition, ConnDoT says each stainless steel 25.9m-long vehicle will be designed for continuous operation of up to 24 hours and 1900km daily and will have at least a 40-year design life.
ConnDoT notes that the vehicles will be customised to meet Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requirements and tailored specifically for the requirements of ConnDoT services. The new fleet will also be fully compliant with the accessibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“The ConnDoT Office of Rail is working hard to upgrade the trip for rail customers across Connecticut,” says ConnDoT commissioner, Mr Garrett Eucalitto. “We know they want more comfortable seats, Wi-Fi access, bike storage and ADA accessibility, and we’re taking action on those needs with steps like this.”
“We look forward to further building upon our relationship with ConnDoT by providing extensive expertise ranging from passenger ergonomics, experience and comfort to operational considerations and optimised maintenance practices for years to come,” says Alstom Americas president, Mr Michael Keroullé.
ConnDoT provides funding for commuter services in Connecticut, which are operate on three main lines and three branch lines.
The New Haven Line, operated by MTA’s Metro-North Railroad, runs between New Haven, Connecticut, and Grand Central Terminal in New York City. This line has three branches that extend to New Canaan, Danbury and Waterbury.
Shore Line East, operated by ConnDoT under the CT Rail brand, runs between New London, Connecticut, and New Haven, with some through trains to Stamford and connections to the New Haven Line. CT Rail trains also operate on the Hartford Line between Springfield, Massachusetts, and New Haven, connecting with New Haven Line and Amtrak Northeast Corridor services. This is a joint venture between ConnDoT and the Massachusetts Department of Transport (MassDoT).
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