My Alerts The STM will soon initiate the process
to replace the métro's MR-63 rolling stock
Montreal, 11 May, 2006- Claude Trudel, Chairman of the STM Board of Directors, welcomes the decision by the Québec government that allows the transit corporation to begin direct negotiations with Bombardier Transport to replace the MR-63 rolling stock.
“This is excellent news, insofar as the first new métro cars will roll onto the tracks by the end of 2010,” declared Mr. Trudel. “Renewing the métro’s first generation rolling stock will promote the development of services and, from there, encourage the widespread use of public transit infrastructure.”
The project calls for the STM to purchase quality métro cars at a fair price that meet the needs of both the transit corporation and its users, all within a timeframe that will allow for optimal deployment.
In order to fully play its role in the MR-63 métro car replacement project, the STM will set up a project management office that will begin by drawing up functional work specifications. It will also establish cost comparisons with other similar projects. The project management office will include a consulting engineering firm selected through a tendering process and will benefit from the input of several STM specialists. Moreover, throughout the entire process, Bombardier Transport will act as a partner and take part in defining the concepts, preparing detailed requirements for the new rolling stock, and drafting the specifications book.
The STM and Bombardier Transport will then enter into direct negotiations to reach an agreement about the price, as well as the terms and conditions for executing the project. From the moment the offer is submitted, all parties will have a limited period of time to reach an agreement. Should they fail to do so within that timeframe, the STM will go ahead with a call for tenders. For its part, Transport Québec will validate the STM’s work throughout the entire process.
“2006 will be pivotal for the STM,” added Mr. Trudel. “The corporation must forge ahead with its efforts to improve performance, while waiting for the new financial framework that will allow it to maintain and renew its obsolete equipment, and improve its service offer to increase ridership.”
As a public transit corporation, the STM is at the very heart of the Greater Montréal area’s economic growth, and it contributes as much to the quality of life of citizens as to the protection of the environment. It develops and operates an integrated bus and métro network for transit users, courteously providing them with fast, reliable, safe and comfortable transportation. Its clients, employees, corporate and commercial partners are proud of this relationship, because the STM is known for delivering quality services at a fair price.
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