Canada and British Columbia invest to refurbish the West Coast Express commuter train

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Mar 17, 2021 – Infrastructure Canada

The project includes refurbishing the engines of six of the seven locomotives to extend their lifespan by 15 years. In addition, all head end power units, which provide heat and lighting to the passenger cars, will be replaced to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and allow operation of longer trains. To ensure there is no disruption in service, locomotives will be refurbished one at a time, with each locomotive tested, commissioned, and returned to service before work starts on the next locomotive.

The Government of Canada is investing $10.2 million in this project through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of British Columbia is contributing $9.2 million and TransLink is contributing $1.5 million for this project.

“We know that investing in B.C.’s infrastructure is vital, especially when it means we’re investing in more socially and environmentally responsible transportation options for British Columbians. By working together with partners like the Government of Canada and investing in existing infrastructure like the West Coast Express, we can keep people moving while we build longer-term plans for transit in the lower mainland.” – The Honourable Bowinn Ma, British Columbia’s Minister of State for Infrastructure

Read the full article at newswire.ca.