MBTA Fairmount Line to get DMUs

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.

2