MSP central corridor new improved cars from Siemens

[NW cannonball]

The first cars of the Siemens batch for the new Central Corridor in Minneapolis Saint Paul are already in service on the existing Hiawatha line (to be renamed the Blue Line)

The seating layout is a bit different from the older cars that have been running on the Hiawatha Line - no facing seats, a larger section between the two bendy bits.

See http://finance-commerce.com/2012/04/new-light-rail-cars-will-be-more-minnesota-friendly/ . Not much noticable difference to a rider.

Saw two more in their travel wraps on flatcars in the MNNR yard this weekend. Full order will take a year or so to fulfill.

Green line (central corridor) on schedule, won't start running until next year. Rail all laid, catenary going up now. Can't wait.

 

[jebr]

I've ridden in some of the new LRT vehicles. No major complaints here...they get the job done and I like the additional capacity that the new order is providing.

Also can't wait to see Central Corridor come online. Now for Southwest and Bottineau!