THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

www.lrta.org www.tautonline.com

JUNE 2017 No. 954 GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Sacramento: New lines and new life for San Jose cars US Congress rejects transit cutbacks Siemens and Bombardier to merge? Strasbourg opens cross-border link

The art of track Saving Gent 06> £4.40 Challenges of design The impact and and maintenance legacy of the PCCs 9 771460 832050 Phil Long

“A great event, really well organised and the dinner, reception and exhibition space made for great networking time.” Andy Byford – CEO, Toronto Transit Commission

MANCHESTER “Once again your team have proved your outstanding capabilities. The content was excellent and the feedback from participants was great.” 18-19 July 2017 Simcha Ohrenstein – CTO, Jerusalem LRT

Topics and themes for 2017 include: > Rewriting the business case for light rail investment > Cyber security – Responsibilities and safeguards > Models for procurement and resourcing strategies > Safety and security: Anti-vandalism measures > Putting light rail at the heart of the community > Digitisation and real-time monitoring > Street-running safety challenges > Managing obsolescence > Next-generation driver aids > Wire-free solutions > Are we delivering the best passenger environments? > Composite & materials technologies > From smartcard to smartphone ticketing > Rail and trackform innovation > Traction energy optimisation and efficiency > Major project updates

Confirmed speakers include: SUPPORTED BY > Geoff Inskip – Chairman, UKTram > Dann y Vaughan – Head of Metrolink, TfGM > Allan Alaküla – Head of Tallinn EU Office, City of Tallinn > T obyn Hughes – Managing Director (Transport Operations), North East Combined Authority > Ana M. Moreno - General Manager, Tranvía Zaragoza > Laur a Shoaf – Managing Director, TfWM > Peter Jones – Project Director, MPT Consortium > Da vid Favest – Marketing Director, STIB-MIVB > Ben Gilligan – Director of Public Transport, SYPTE > P aolo Carbone – Head of Public Transport Capital Programmes, Transport Infrastructure Ireland > Andr es Muñoz de Dios – Director General, MetroTenerife > Alejandr o Moreno – Alliance Director, Midland Alliance > Da vid Hand – Divisional Director and LRT Group Practice Leader, Mott MacDonald > Dr Nick Mallinson – Programme Manager, HVM Catapult, University of Warwick > Der ek Small – Engineering Director, SYSTRA ORGANISED BY > David Sidebottom – Passenger Team Director, Transport Focus www.mainspring.co.uk 216 CONTENTS The official journal of the Light Rail Transit Association JUNE 2017 Vol. 80 No. 954 www.tautonline.com EDITORIAL 208 EDITOR Simon Johnston E-mail: [email protected] 13 Orton Enterprise Centre, Bakewell Road, Peterborough PE2 6XU, UK ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tony Streeter E-mail: [email protected] WORLDWIDE EDITOR Michael Taplin Flat 1, 10 Hope Road, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 6EA, UK. E-mail: [email protected] NEWS EDITOR John Symons 17 Whitmore Avenue, Werrington, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST9 0LW, UK. E-mail: [email protected] SENIOR CONTRIBUTOR Neil Pulling WORLDWIDE CONTRIBUTORS 230 Tony Bailey, James Chuang, Paul Nicholson, Richard Felski, Ed Havens, Bill Vigrass, Andrew Moglestue, NEWS 204 SYSTEMS FACTFILE: KREFELD 224 Mike Russell, Nikolai Semyonov, Vic Simons, Herbert US Congress rejects ‘skinny budget’; Siemens Neil Pulling explores the modernised Pence, Alain Senut, Rick Wilson, Thomas Wagner and Bombardier in merger discussions; tramway of the north-western German city PRODUCTION Lanna Blyth Izmir opens first tramline; Bybanen reaches once famed for railway manufacture. Tel: +44 (0)1733 367604 E-mail: [email protected] the airport; RATP and Alstom complete first DESIGN autonomous stabling trial. SACRAMENTO UPDATE 229 Debbie Nolan California’s State capital boasts a ‘new’ fleet, ADVERTISING HARMONISING TRAM AND LRT 208 LRT expansion and major streetcar plans. COMMERCIAL MANAGER Five years on from a major reconstruction Geoff Butler that saw light rail introduced to the UK WORLDWIDE REVIEW 230 Tel: +44 (0)1733 367610 E-mail: [email protected] town, Neil Pulling revisits Blackpool. Newcastle chooses catenary-free tram PUBLISHER solution; Munich begins work on second Howard Johnston ART MEETS ENGINEERING 216 city S-Bahn crossing; Rabat-Salé confirms Tramways & Urban Transit is jointly published by the LRTA and LRTA Publishing on the third Friday of each In the first of a two-part series, David Holt extensive tram expansion plans. month preceding the cover date. shows how good infrastructure design and LRTA WEBSITE AND DIARY construction can be stylish and cost-saving. MAILBOX 235 Brian Lomas Tram-train and extreme weather discussed. E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] GROOVED RAIL MAINTENANCE 221 LRTA MEMBERSHIP (with TAUT subscription) Examining the challenges – and some CLASSIC : GENT’S SAVIOUR 236 Tramways & Urban Transit is sent free to all paid-up innovative solutions – for the modern light Mike Russell bids a fond farewell to Gent’s members of the Light Rail Transit Association. rail track engineer. PCC cars. SUBSCRIPTIONS AND MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES LRTA Membership Secretary (Dept T06), 38 Wolseley Road, Sale M33 7AU, UK. Tel: +44 (0)117 951 7785 Repair or replace? The classic conundrum BACK ISSUES In our throw-away society, where less care is taken and everything seems Tel: +44 (0)117 951 7785 to be disposable after a few years’ service, we risk losing so many vital skills PRINT AND DISTRIBUTION forever in the quest to apply technology to create the latest and greatest Warners (Midlands) plc, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1778 391000. (whatever it may be). This month we celebrate a few of these artisans in the LRTA REGISTERED OFFICE tramway world and show how technology is nothing without experience. c/o 138 Radnor Avenue, Welling, Kent DA16 2BY, UK. Many of the world’s modern tramways offer examples of this lack of imagination. Private company limited by guarantee, No. 5072319 ‘Old’ fleets (no more than 15-20 years old) are sent to the scrapman’s torch when in and . they could be turned into cafe cars, restaurants on rails or educational facilities, LRTA CHAIRMAN while track and infrastructure face the same fate when replacing is often seen as the Andrew Braddock path of least resistance when the salesman comes-a-calling. I remember meeting a E-mail: [email protected] Hungarian tramway engineer a few years ago who had followed in both his father’s and LRTA DEPUTY CHAIRMAN grandfather’s footsteps. He was a master of his art, using tools and skills honed over Paul Rowen decades of experience. LRTA PUBLISHING REGISTERED OFFICE c/o 8 Berwick Place, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 4TU, David Holt touches on a number of these themes with a fascinating exploration of UK. Private Limited Company, No. 06169422 the dynamics of infrastructure design in this issue, proving that age-old track design in England and Wales. principles can give a stylish added dimension to city centres without adding extra cost © LRTA Publishing 2017 (and still performing better). Who says that tracks, switches, crossings, poles and wires Articles are submitted on the understanding they may also have to be hidden away? We show how they can be an attractive civic asset. later be used on our websites or other media. A contribution is accepted on the basis that its author is responsible for the This month we also revisit Blackpool to see how some creative integration of the UK opinions expressed in it, and such opinions are not those of seaside town’s modern light rail system and heritage tramway have seen both boom. LRTA Publishing or the LRTA. All rights reserved. Once-neglected vehicles now have a clearer focus and are in their best ever shape No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in thanks to a dedicated team of paid staff and volunteers; they also superbly complement any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and a state-of-the-art modern low-floor system that is as advanced as many you’ll find in retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from towns or cities ten times the size. the copyright owner. Multiple copying of the contents of the With a real focus on the needs of passenger, this operator has introduced new common magazine without prior written approval is not permitted. sense fares and a customer service regime that is second to none. Despite being 132 COVER: Blackpool’s ‘Golden Mile’ as viewed from the years old, this shows how old dogs really can learn new tricks. Simon Johnston, Editor top of a double-deck tram on 5 April 2017. N. Pulling

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 203 News US Congress rejects ‘skinny budget’ Funding for transportation projects due to increase this year under new proposals

S Congressional leaders A summary sheet for the plan but transit systems across the (FY) 2017 appropriations bill unveiled a spending said that “grant programmes country are struggling to keep and including significant deal on 1 May that totalling USD9.7bn will help local up with maintenance while also support for federal public includes increased communities build, maintain, expanding their systems in order transportation programmes. fundingU for transportation and ensure the safety of their to meet current demand. We urge Congress to pass this projects intended for significant mass transit systems”. Within this “These projects help ease legislation expeditiously so it cuts in the new administration’s total, USD2.4bn is provided for commute times, save fuel, can be sent to President Trump draft budget (TAUT 953). Capital Investment Grants – an reduce emissions, and connect for his signature. Ignoring President Trump’s increase of USD236m – including Americans to opportunities “This legislative action shows calls for a ‘streamlined DOT’ a guaranteed USD1.5bn for all for work and services they that Congress understands the and downplaying his plans for projects with Full Funding Grant need every day.” value of public transportation a greater involvement of the Agreement status. Core capacity The bill provides an additional and how it plays a critical role private sector in transportation projects receive USD333m under USD173m for the Federal in the economy… We believe projects, the FY2017 omnibus the bill, and USD408m is allocated Railroad Administration, up Congress is acting in line with spending bill proposes to state and local Small Starts to USD1.85bn, and USD1.5bn the wishes of the American USD19.3bn for the Department projects due to begin in 2017. for Amtrak. No allocation is public. A 2016 poll showed that of Transportation (DOT), a The bill also preserves the provided for high-speed rail three out of four Americans USD681m increase on current current USD500m allocated to projects, although grant schemes support increased public funding levels and USD6.2bn the TIGER grant programme, are to be implemented to develop transportation investment.” above the president’s request. which President Trump’s draft automated vehicle technology. The White House was due The bill provides a total of budget proposes eliminating A statement from acting APTA to release its full FY2018 USD12.4bn for transit projects, in its entirety. President and CEO Richard A. budget proposal, which will USD657m above the fiscal year The summary sheet added that White said: “APTA applauds include proposed funding 2016 enacted level and USD7.5bn “transit ridership remains high, Congress for completing levels for public transportation above the president’s request. with over 10.5bn trips per year… negotiations on the fiscal year programmes, in late May.

SNC-Lavalin reaches agreement to buy Atkins Chinese competition may drive On 21 April the board of British engineering and design consultancy Atkins agreed to a Bombardier/Siemens merger GBP2.1bn (EUR2.48bn) takeover by Canadian rival SNC-Lavalin in a During April the worldwide deal that would create a company financial press reported that with EUR8.1bn in combined discussions are underway revenues and 53 000 employees. between Bombardier and Coming just three months Siemens about merging their rail after Atkins rejected an offer divisions. A larger company than from US-based CH2M Hill, the either of the current existing takeover is being funded through enterprises would provide greater a combination of equity and debt, financial clout to compete more including an GBP870m (EUR1.04bn) loan from SNC-Lavalin’s largest effectively against China’s CRRC shareholder Caisse de depot et Corporation (itself a result of the placement du Quebec. Following 2015 merger of the country’s two shareholder and regulatory biggest regional manufacturing approval, the deal could be companies), which has been complete by the end of July. winning more orders in the The news marks the latest in traditional manufacturers’ a series of bids for UK groups by markets and now has ambitions international companies taking The only European tram product from Siemens is the 100% low-floor Avenio with to enter the European market. advantage of the weaker pound the largest number running on the streets of Den Haag, Netherlands. J. Hulscher sterling (GBP). Also representing a CRRC’s strength in being step towards consolidation of able to help secure finance for valued at EUR7.2bn. These A Bombardier-Siemens merger the global engineering sector; major infrastructure projects in figures reflect railway, tramway would be the biggest tie-up so far John Wood Group agreed a developing countries, as well as and metro rolling stock, in a period of consolidation for GBP2.2bn (EUR2.6bn) deal for offer extremely competitive bids signalling, automation and the industry which has in recent Amec Foster Wheeler in March. to gain market share, is seen as communications; Bombardier is years seen the acquisition of New Aarhus opening date being a driver for the new talks. well ahead of Siemens in terms AnsaldoBreda and AnsaldoSTS by Aarhus Letbane has announced In 2016 Siemens’ Mobility of tram building, particularly in Hitachi, the purchase of Vossloh the new opening date for the first division made a profit of Europe (see TAUT 952). Rail Vehicles by Stadler and the phase of its new tram-train network, EUR678m on turnover of A strong response from the split of Alstom’s transportation originally June, as 23 September. EUR7.825bn, while Bombardier regulatory authorities and and energy-generation assets. An initial service will see three had a turnover of USD7.574bn labour unions in Europe, fuelled Siemens’ offer to buy Alstom trams/hour, increased to eight but is believed to have achieved by political reaction to likely in early 2014 failed following per hour in 2018. Services will be extended south to Odder along just a 5.2% profit margin. job losses, is expected if the a competing offer from US-based an existing railway alignment in Bombardier’s 70% stake in discussions lead to a formal General Electric (GE), which saw December, with the northern section Bombardier Transportation proposal. Sources quoted by Alstom acquire GE’s signalling to Grenaa due to open in early 2018. is worth around EUR4.5bn, Bloomberg say that this could be business in return for its power while Siemens Mobility is made in the middle of the year. generation division.

204 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Strasbourg inaugurates international tramline D New link sees trams cross the River Rhine for first time in almost 73 years

The two inaugural Citadis trams he weekend of 45m 403 100% sovereignty towards the end of ready for their parallel traverse of the 28-29 April saw the low-floor trams equipped for World War Two. Electric trams new international tramline. A. Gambet inauguration of BOStrab regulations, including were inaugurated in December passenger service on two repainted in a special livery 1894, after 17 years of horse and future relationship between the Tthe new tramline across the to mark Strasbourg’s place in the steam tram operation; the current EU and the . river Rhine from the French city European Community of tramway system in Strasbourg The German Government was of Strasbourg to the German 28 nations. was inaugurated in 1994. represented by Federal Minister town of Kehl. Following the opening Hopes that Angela Merkel Peter Altmaier, while the Mayor Strasbourg line D was ceremony at 10.00 on 28 April and François Hollande would of Strasbourg, Roland Ries, extended by 2.7km (1.7 miles) a 24-hour service was provided participate in the opening presided on the French from Aristide Briande over two over the weekend as citizens ceremony for the new line were side, together with Robert new bridges (one over the inland queued for an inaugural free ride. interrupted by Brexit, as the Herrmann, President of the port of Strasbourg, the other over The last tram to make a similar German and French presidents Strasbourg Eurometropole. the international waterway) to journey was in November 1944, had to attend the EU27 summit In 2018 there will be a further Kehl railway station. The new when Alsace and the city of in Brussels to discuss the short extension in Kehl from Rhine bridge has been named Strasbourg returned to French negotiating guidelines for the Bahnhof to Rathaus. after Beatus Rhenanus (1485- 1547), a French writer, humanist and philosopher, who lived in LEGEND the area. The EUR93m project Line D Kehl attracted EUR19m from the Bahnhof German Federal Government; Tramstop Quartier du 1.7km (one mile) of the new line Pont du Rhin Planned stop is on German territory. Coopérative Line D runs across the Future TER KEHL Rhine from 04.45 to 00.04 on rail station weekdays, and 05.27-00.02 on Sundays, with trams every five Port du minutes during peak periods. Rhin Starlette Jardin des From 2 May an additional service Deux Rives to Pont-du-Rhin was introduced, where older Strasbourg trams can reverse before the bridge used by the international service. Jardin des Aristide Deux Rives The Strasbourg Line D The international operation Briand as of April 2017. is provided by a fleet of 12

NEWS IN PICTURES Supertram Izmir opens first tramline 101 on a Meadowhall – Metropolitan Mayor Aziz designed by Hyundai Rotem Middlewood Kocaoglu inaugurated the and assembled in Turkey by service on first tramline in the Turkish the joint venture with Tüvasas 18 April, city of Izmir on 11 April. at the Adapazari railway showing The 8.8km (5.5-mile) Karsiyaka workshops. A further 21 are the physical tramway cost TRY450m being delivered for the 12.9km Tinsley Chord connection to (EUR116.6m), and runs for 14 (eight-mile) Konak line on the the Supertram stops along the waterfront on other side of the bay, which is network. the north side of the Bay of due to open later in the year. Paul Abell Izmir from Alaybey to Atasehir There are plans to extend railway station on the Izban the Karsiyaka line to Katip commuter rail network via Celebi University, and on the ferry terminal. Passenger to Cigli Izban station, with Tinsley Chord tram-train link completed Over the Easter weekend (16-17 April), the physical link between the Sheffield service is free until June. construction starting this year. Supertram system and the Network Rail managed freight railway – the Work on the project started Izmir already has had a light Tinsley Chord – was installed by lead contractor Carillion. The switches and in April 2015 and testing metro line, partly underground crossing were supplied by Vossloh Cogifer. commenced in January 2017. and opened in 2000, built as an Described by Network Rail senior project sponsor Simon Coulthard as a Civil works were carried out by ADtranz turnkey project. New “crucial step forward” for the project, the weekend also saw works begin on Turkish contractor Gülermak. stations opened in both 2012 College Road in Rotherham – this will be demolished and replaced with a new Passenger service is provided and 2014, taking the system raised deck on 27-28 May to provide space for the equipment every three minutes at peak to 20.1km (12.5 miles) with underneath. In order to complete the work, trains will be diverted between Meadowhall and Swinton and will not stop at Rotherham Central; a bus times and every five minutes six-car sets providing a four- replacement service will be offered. off-peak using 17 32m minute peak service. Further > For a detailed examination of the UK’s tram-train project see TAUT 953. articulated low-floor trams lines are planned.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 205 News Bybanen service reaches the airport

Bergen’s tramway of tramway, which includes two completes the third areas of subway construction, was NOK3.7bn (EUR394m). phase to connect Bergen’s tram fleet has been Flesland Airport boosted by the delivery of eight additional vehicles, which are seven-section wenty-two years after 42.1m cars that can accommodate the decision was taken up to 278 passengers, 111 seated. that light rail would form They join the 20 five-section the backbone of public 32.2m trams that have been Ttransport in the Norwegian operating since opened city of Bergen, line 1 to Flesland in June 2010. The additional Airport, the third phase of the vehicles were ordered in 2013 project, is now complete. On as part of a contract worth more 21 April Councillor for Urban than EUR100m which includes Development, Anna Elisa Tryti, maintenance of the existing fleet County Mayor Pål Kårbø, and The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new tram station at Bergen Flesland until 2026. The full extension Airport Director Aslak Sverdrup Lufthavn on 21 April. Bybanen includes a new depot on a 7ha site cut the ribbon at the escalators that provides maintenance and that lead from the subway tram Regular passenger service the 7km (4.3-mile) Lagunen – stabling for up to 40 trams and a station to the airport’s new started the next day; an airport Flesland phase of the project, the control centre for the system. terminal, which will open on 17 – city centre (Byparken) trip first phase to Birkelandsskiftet Planning is in progress for August. Until then, passengers takes 45 minutes and at peak opened in August 2016, and now a northern extension of the transferring between tram and periods there are trams every five puts 9000 homes and 13 000 jobs tramway to Åsane, including plane have a five-minute walk to minutes. The latest extension within 600m of the line. The tracks along Bergen’s famous the existing terminal. (2.2km/1.4 miles) completes budget for the 7km (4.3 miles) Bryggen Hanseatic wharf.

3D printing for tram components Siemens is using 3D printing “We can now create a design technology to produce that is 100% customised to customised tram components specific requirements and ‘on demand’, reducing lead times optimised several times before it is for delivery from weeks to days 3D printed. This takes production and passing the cost-savings time down from weeks to a onto its customers. matter of days, and makes it The manufacturer says cost-effective enough to extend that it has seen an increase in our customer service offering to demand for customised parts, one-off part production.” but specialised production The manufacturer has processes mean that the cost pioneered the process with the for low-volume production has SWU Verkehr undertaking in often been prohibitive when Ulm, Germany, producing parts fewer than ten of a particular such as driver’s seat armrests and component are required. coupler housing covers for the Szeged is the latest customer for the diesel-electric version of Stadler’s Citylink Tina Eufinger of Siemens city’s fleet of tenCombino trams. tram-train, as supplied to the German city of Chemnitz. Tony Streeter Mobility said: “Before we Customers can now place orders integrated 3D printing into for customised parts online. production, we were forced to To meet German rail industry Szeged chooses Citylink produce higher quantities of criteria for production parts, parts in order to make the project Siemens uses a flame, smoke and Stadler Rail Valencia has been tramway using an 800m cost-effective. For small-volume toxicity-compliant synthetic chosen by Hungarian national (0.5-mile) connection to the demands we would store parts thermoplastic material to passenger rail operator MÁV- non-electrified Szeged – until they were used, discarded or align with fire protection Start to supply eight electro- Békéscsaba railway. A 3.3km became too outdated to use. requirements. diesel Citylink tram-trains for (two-mile) single-track line the route between Szeged and is also to be built through Hódmez vásárhely. The order, Hódmez vásárhely to take worth HUF10bn (EUR32m), tram-trains to the city’s station. includes an option for a further Currently, 5000 commuters four vehicles and requires use public transport between delivery of the first vehicle in Szeged and Hódmez vásárhely 2019. The tram-train line is and an estimated further planned to open in 2020. 10 000 commute by private LEFT AND ABOVE: The HUF20bn (EUR64m) car. The tram-train service SWU Verkehr is using project is being fully financed will operate every ten minutes Siemens’ 3D print ‘on by the EU, and consists of during peak hours with an demand’ service for a connection between the end-to-end journey taking components for its Combino current line 1 of Szeged’s 45 minutes. trams. JuergenG/Siemens

206 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org RATP trials driverless tram stabling Citadis fitted with autonomous operation capability completes six-month trial in Paris

arisian transport operator further testing is planned for the RATP and Alstom have second half of the year. completed a trial with a Elements of the technology tram that can stable itself that have made the experiment Pin the depot autonomously. The possible have been supplied pilot programme saw the fitment by EasyMile, a French start-up of Citadis 709 with lidar sensors specialised in the software that to create a ‘map’ of the terrain in powers autonomous vehicles. front of the vehicle. If an obstacle Alstom acquired a minority stake or obstruction is detected, the in EasyMile earlier this year for tram is able to react by reducing around EUR14m. speed, increasing braking or RATP President Elisabeth Autonomous trams have featured heavily in the news in recent months; the RATP/ applying the emergency brakes. Borne said the trial “is fully in Alstom trial in Paris marks a significant step forward for the technology. Alstom The vehicle is also capable of line with the group’s culture recognising its stabling point of innovation”, adding that “One of Alstom’s objectives is Automating the operation of the within the depot. RATP would soon begin testing to reduce operating costs for tram will allow a new approach The six-month project autonomous parking of buses. its customers, with a view to to operations in the depot and I included three months of trials at Alstom Chairman and CEO optimising the total cost of am delighted to see that the tests the T7 depot in Vitry-sur-Seine; Henri Poupart-Lafarge added: ownership of their solutions. are already well underway.”

Metrolinx blocked from terminating major Bombardier LRV contract A judge from Ontario’s Superior damages to the consortium lifted if the board agreed that Court of Justice has ruled that responsible for building the new Bombardier was in default. provincial transport authority line. Bombardier has insisted it Bombardier continues to face Metrolinx cannot terminate will deliver 76 vehicles in time to public and political pressure in the CAD770m (EUR514m) commission the route. its home country for delays in A 81-765 metro set on a surface contract it signed in 2010 with In his judgement, Justice delivering the Toronto Transit section of the Moskva metro. manufacturer Bombardier for 182 Hainey also suggested he was Commission’s new tram fleet. M. Dolgopolov LRVs without following a multi- ‘not persuaded’ that Metrolinx The TTC was supposed to have step dispute resolution process. intended to terminate the more than 100 of the vehicles Following repeated delays to contract, referring to Bombardier’s by this point from a CAD1.2bn New Moskva delivery schedules, Metrolinx statement that, as some of the (approx. EUR765m) 204-car order launched legal proceedings originally planned LRT lines placed in 2009, but currently has metro fleet in October 2016 over the have since been cancelled or around 35. The manufacturer enters service cars it requires for new and deferred, Metrolinx no longer has promised that all 204 will be expanded corridors around needed all 182 vehicles and was delivered by the end of 2019. Metro line 7 in the Russian Toronto, including the Eglinton attempting to break the deal. The TTC’s Flexity roll-out plan capital saw the first passenger Crosstown line due to open in Justice Hainey’s ruling is now sees a first allocation to 504 service with a train of 81-765 2021. Amongst its evidence, conditional on Bombardier King by November, followed by metro cars on 14 April; 96 are the agency cited a failure to taking ‘all reasonable steps 511 Bathurst in May 2018 and 505 being built by Metrovagonmash deliver the first pilot vehicles to expedite’ a decision by Dundas in June 2018; 501 Queen with each eight-car train on time in 2015 and that the the dispute resolution board; will follow in October 2018, and featuring two powered driving contractual dispute resolution the injunction would also be 502, 503 and 506 in 2019. cars, four powered trailers process doesn’t apply to its right and two unpowered trailers. to termination for default. The whole formation is fully Justice Glenn Hainey rejected gangwayed. Each powered this argument, however, also bogie features two 170kW agreeing Bombardier’s evidence asynchronous traction that the manufacturer would motors, giving a top speed of suffer “irreparable harm” to 90km/h (56mph). both its reputation in bidding The interior features full air- for future orders and its supply conditioning and USB charging chain if Metrolinx were sockets accessible from each permitted to terminate the deal seat. Smart illumination varies under such conditions. the intensity in accordance It is understood that Metrolinx with the level of ambient light. has already had discussions with LED information panels and an alternative vehicle supplier, interactive network maps claiming that the delays put represent a significant upgrade the opening of the Eglinton On 18 October 2016 Toronto Flexity cars 4404 and 4400 pass on the Cherry to passenger information Crosstown line in doubt and route. This section of King Street first saw horse cars on 11 September 1861, the systems. 90% of the components could expose it to significant oldest continuous street railway service in the world. Steve Munro are manufactured in Russia.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 207 Connections for the future Blackpool North extension were installed in advance of the 2012 re-opening.

BLACKPOOL: FIVE MILLION STRONG Neil Pulling reviews the progress of the UK’s only tramway that merges modern LRT and heritage services in regular traffic, and finds that high ridership is driving ambitious future plans.

lackpool is in the north-western responsibility of the council’s arms-length running along the entire Blackpool seafront English county of and company, Services and beyond. To the north it went more remains the archetype of a large Limited (BTS), since 1986. The possibility of inland and thereby had development on British seaside resort. It developed tramway closure had existed at least since the both sides, extending into the Wyre district from local entrepreneurial flair 1960s, but it nevertheless survived to become through the town of to a terminus harnessingB 19th Century railway expansion the UK’s only full service ‘legacy’ system. in . All of the inland branches had and the growth of time off for industrial Several urban areas in other parts of the been closed many years before and shedding workers; these holidaymakers were not UK later adopted light rail, with Blackpool these increasingly traffic-afflicted routes had necessarily travelling very far, but they were becoming the smallest amongst them to have arguably helped the ‘main line’ to survive. keen to escape to the fresh air and mix of the mode in its network. In all, it was just the type of transport corridor entertainments that Blackpool served up. Five years after it was relaunched as that lots of places might be glad to possess. Today’s urbanisation spreads into a modern light rail service, Blackpool’s The system’s antiquity nevertheless neighbouring towns on Coast, an tramway recorded over five million passenger represented challenges, not least the area facing the Irish Sea between the Ribble journeys in the year to March 2017, marking a affection in which the vehicles were held. and Wyre estuaries. ’s return to patronage levels not seen since 1994. It was not just enthusiasts, but also general current resident population of around 142 000 visitors who regarded the quirky collection understates the importance of public transport A challenging decision as part of the very fabric of Blackpool. for the area, in part due to high visitor numbers Entering the 21st Century, the Borough Getting rid of the heritage fleet could and low car ownership for which it was placed Council still faced a decision with its alienate would-be supporters of the system 302 amongst 348 English and Welsh authority tramway for which ultimately there was no and of the town itself. areas (RAC Foundation, 2012). Blackpool ‘do nothing’ option. The mainstays were double-deck Balloon also has a markedly ageing population (2017 The tramway represented a significant trams and some single-deck railcoaches, forecast is a 28% increase in those aged set of assets and liabilities. On the plus side, all around 80 years old, plus an assortment 65-plus by 2042) and accordingly the differing trams were part of the town’s identity. Like the of later trams of patchy quality. However, mobility requirements are significant. world-famous , they were an vehicles that could underpin a service in Blackpool Borough Council owns the established symbol, setting the place apart the 1930s or bring delight due to resembling UK’s oldest electric street tramway – not that from numerous resorts vying for trade in a a trawler or rocket ship could not sustain much of it is strictly on-street. Along with a sensitive market. Mostly with its own right a full public service meeting 21st Century large bus operation, the trams have been the of way, the tramway was an established link expectations – nor would they comply with

208 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Blackpool

ABOVE: Trams share road space north of Fisherman’s Walk, Fleetwood: 011 on Lord Street. accessibility regulations whose terms are due to come into force by 2020. Infrastructure was if anything a bigger problem, for the power supply, tracks, trackbed, stops and maintenance resources were in a poor state of repair: ‘crumbling edge’ was not just a metaphor.

Grasping the nettle Rather than total closure or keeping a much shorter line with an ‘old timer’ service, the authorities adopted a strategy to create an industry-standard, year-round service. Not only would it cover the approximately 18km (11-mile) route, but the fleet and much of the infrastructure would be replaced and service levels would also be upgraded. Mindful of history’s legacy, it would however maintain and integrate a service run by a reduced number of what became formally branded as Heritage trams. There were two distinct phases of works. In 2006 Government approval was given for a GBP11.8m (EUR17m, 2006 prices) set of ‘Emergency Works’ to solve the most pressing problems. Track replacement programmes and two new substations would also contribute to the later upgrading. This began a series of closures to enable a full reopening by 2012. Key elements of the transformation approved in 2008 were 16 new 32.2m 2 low-floor trams, with a new maintenance and storage facility at , a site integrated with coastal defence works at the southern end of the route. The old fleet would be reduced, with some retained in the depot at Rigby Road that dates back to 1935. This site, set back from the seafront near the Square stop, is also Blackpool Transport’s head office. More rebuilding of track was implemented and 32m platforms with access ramps became standard for level boarding. To improve journey times, some road intersections were closed and the number of stops reduced; this became 38 when a local campaign led TOP: The stately elegance to Norbreck North’s reinstatement in March of the Balloons: beautifully 2016. Although delays in the project ate restored 717 carries the name into the trial running period, the renewed of Walter Luff, Corporation was officially opened to transport manager between plan on Tuesday 3 April 2012. Formalities 1933 and 1954, a revered figure were led by Norman Baker MP, then in the system’s history. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport – a role now held by the Member ABOVE: Southbound 001 of Parliament for Blackpool North and passes the area dedicated to Heritage services adjoining the Cleveleys, Paul Maynard. well used Cleveleys stop. Except for the 40 lucky ‘Golden Ticket’ winners aboard Flexity 2 008 on that LEFT: Flexity 015 draws rain-lashed opening day, the general public away from Starr Gate depot; the had to wait until the next morning to sample passenger terminus is in the the new service. left background.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 209 Fleetwood Ferry

Victoria Street

London Road Fisherman’s Walk

Stanley Road

Lindel Road FLEETWOOD

Heathfield Road

Broadwater

Rossall Square

Rossall School

ABOVE: Between Fisherman's Building upon the new start Walk and Stanley Road in For the new era, Blackpool’s motive power Fleetwood, typical of the Rossall Beach was reorganised whereby any given vehicle dedicated ballasted sections and would be in one of three categories. with replicas of the traditional Thornton Gate boundary fencing. The A-Fleet consists of the Bombardier trams, all allocated to Starr Gate. West Drive Ordinarily these handle the normal Cleveleys CLEVELEYS timetable, but are supplemented by the B-Fleet that consists of Balloon trams with modifications to make them partly compliant Anchorsholme Lane with legislation. These, like the Heritage tram “Despite a national trend, C-Fleet, are normally kept at Rigby Road. With re-opening came the challenge of Little Bispham Blackpool has no plans communicating the improvements and promoting the whole network as the best way Norbreck North to give up control of to move along the Fylde coast. Five years on from the modernisation, TAUT met James Norbreck its transport services.” Carney, Blackpool Transport’s Finance and Commercial Director, to consider some of the Sandhurst Avenue BELOW: The interior of Starr measures taken – or intentionally not taken. Gate depot, a key aspect of the Despite a national trend exemplified by Bispham modernisation project. Swindon Council's 2017 sale of Thamesdown Cavendish Road Buses to a private operator, Blackpool has POULTON-LE-FYLDE BELOW RIGHT: Years of no plans to give up control of its transport experience and access to old Lowther Avenue equipment at Rigby Road services. Although now a rare model in the underpin the Heritage operation; UK’s public transport industry, the use of an Cabin Brush Railcoach 631 was built for arms-length transport subsidiary is however Cliffs Hotel Blackpool in 1937. also a feature of Edinburgh’s tramway.

Gynn Square

Wilton Parade Blackpool North Pleasant Station Street BLACKPOOL

North Pier

Tower

Central Pier

Manchester Square

Rigby Road

St Chad’s Road Between staggered platforms at North Pier. Avoiding Waterloo Road conflict with the normal service, track to the left South Pier contains the separate Tower / Pleasure Beach LEGEND North Pier Heritage stop. Existing line

Burlington Road Planned extension

Harrow Place Tram stop

Depot Starr Gate

Blackpool Airport

210 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Carney says of the arrangement: “It’s a virtuous circle. Blackpool Transport sets out to provide the best possible service, and we have paid dividends back to the Council.” In the years since the modernisation, BTS has extended the range of fare options and emphasises cross-mode ticketing; it communicates with present and potential users through online, onboard and stop- based promotions and operates two customer centres. In November 2016 BTS introduced a ticket (onboard sales only) for 24 hours of travel from the time of purchase. Originally a temporary ‘thank you’ offer, this now- permanent product covering trams and buses – at GBP5 adult, GBP3 (ages 16-19), GBP2.50 (child) and GBP10 for a group – has become very popular. Reflecting that dogs may accompany passengers, the appropriately named ‘Rover’ counterpart costs GBP1. James Carney points out that the ticket’s conditions meet the needs of both residents and visitors: “After the single fare, the 24-hour ticket is now our second-highest selling item – the day ticket will be dead soon.” For short- stay visitors in particular, many arriving or departing in the middle of the day, this ABOVE: Nearing the southern end of the system, 007 passes Burlington Road West stop. ticket economically covers local travel when it is most likely to occur. For local users, Mr Carney suggests a typical 24-hour ticket as evenings out followed by activities like sport or shopping the next day. Contrary to common practice elsewhere, Blackpool has retained the use of conductors. Usually with two per vehicle, they not only sell tickets but are important sources of local information. Although the Flexity 2 trams have surveillance equipment, the human presence also remains effective at reducing vandalism and anti-social behaviour. Observing interactions between ABOVE: Flexity 2 001 leaving Gynn Square, from ABOVE: Fleetwood Ferry tram terminus. Bus 364 the conductors and visitors or residents – which the tracks rise along the low cliffs in both was new with another operator in 2002, exemplifying also apparent in social media feedback – it directions. models due for replacement. is clear that the human presence works well for Blackpool. Unsurprisingly for a system by 2020. Since 2015 it has introduced new long-stay holidays. Overall, the council with some relatively exposed stops away vehicles fitted to its own ‘Palladium’ high- identifies that 85% of the tramway’s from housing, the tramway retained request level specification – matching theFlexity 2’s annual demand is seen between Easter and stop operation. On such a long run and with free Wi-Fi – initially with ten Mercedes November; some influxes are driven by weather strongly influencing the propensity Citaros. In summer 2016 the Palladium format events known well in advance, for example to travel, the schedule is thus determined by extended to ten new double-deck Alexander school and public holidays, the World waiting time as required. Dennis Enviro400 City vehicles and the first Fireworks Championships and Fleetwood Despite exceeding the five million of a further 25 began deliveries in April this Festival of Transport (Tram Sunday). A customer mark in 2017, there have been year. Increased ridership has followed the lighted seafront display around 10km (six ridership downturns. Mr Carney points Palladium standard taking over some of the miles) long, ‘The Illuminations’ have been to some changes in eligibility criteria for network’s most heavily-used routes. extending Blackpool’s holiday season well concessionary fares that have occurred since into autumn since 1912. A change in the 2012. There is no obligation for trams (as Seasonal highs and lows weather can however bring or deter many opposed to buses) to be included for such The tramway is identified as Blackpool’s top visitors – and thus affect transport demand – concessions, but common practice is for this attraction on travel review site TripAdvisor. at very short notice. to happen, at least for locally-issued passes. Not only does this rating exceed more A welcome recent trend for the local Not the first such change, since April 2016 ostensible tourist draws like the seafront, economy is that the proportion of visits holders of passes issued by the Blackpool and Blackpool Tower or Pleasure Beach, but the with at least one night’s accommodation Wyre authorities get free travel on trams as rating is for the whole operation, not just is rising – this represents a much higher well as buses. The ending of tram concessions the leisure-centred Heritage trams. Many spend compared to day trips. James Carney for other passholders inevitably diverted website comments substantiate this, clearly comments that, “when demand spikes, out demand to buses, at least temporarily. appreciating both the Heritage and modern come the Balloons.” This is less celebratory As envisaged in 2012, the line 1 bus trams and praising the contributions than it might sound to the layman, for it service which shadowed the tramway’s made to the experience by the conductors. means deploying the B-Fleet. This may Fleetwood Ferry – Starr Gate route has been James Carney believes that “Blackpool is delight some visitors, but integrating these evaluated. Blackpool Transport decided to attractive to come to because it is so easy trams can be operationally problematic as retain line 1, now with main intervals of 20 to move around – the improvements in the their single portal and restricted passenger or 30 minutes subject to season, viewing transport network have been appreciated." circulation create longer dwell times. the two services as being sustainable and He adds that such endorsements are even Slower performance can also make it difficult complementary. During unplanned timetable more welcome due to the five million-plus to maintain the schedule. suspensions, such as for breakdowns or track tramway passenger mark being attained five With specific reference to the normal encroachments, buses can maintain this core years ahead of the target date set out in the service, as opposed to the Heritage trams route’s operation from existing marked stops, modernisation business case. which use separate dedicated stops and loops many near tramway counterparts. Blackpool has always had seasonal that allow other trams to pass, Mr Carney BTS aims to reduce the age of buses in its influences but the nature of such variations says, “If we could find a way to use only the 140-strong fleet to no more than five years has changed, notably with the decline of Flexity 2 trams, we would.” At present, 13 of

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 211 Blackpool

the 16-strong modern fleet are needed at peak frequency during the summer timetable. Since 2012 there have been improvements in the web-based representation of the BTS (www.blackpooltransport.com) offering to the public. Logically presented, and without gimmickry, the tone is welcoming and the information more comprehensive than previously. A marketing approach places transport as a means to an end, not just a set of timetables; including content like the area’s attractions, linked offers and local weather recognises the visitor context.

Improving with age Rigby Road: 'B-Fleet' 719 (left) carries the livery introduced with the 2012 re-opening. Heritage 715 has a Historic trams run on many modernised late interpretation of the 1930s cream and green livery and 701 is based on a scheme on ex-London Routemaster systems, but Blackpool is rare in integrating buses used in Blackpool in the 1980-90s. regular timetabled operation with normal public services. Titled ‘Heritage Tram Tours’ Heritage trams overall could never be run 1964, with a surviving secondary route (www.blackpoolheritage.com), the service is as a fully commercial operation. It is only via cut back to Blackpool supported by the independent not-for-profit made possible by harnessing the generosity, South. Blackpool Central was by the seafront Blackpool Heritage Trust. skills and enthusiasm of volunteers who near the present Coral Island complex. Had It is a paradox of the modernisation that it work alongside BTS employees.” Blackpool Beeching’s recommendations been followed, led to improved conditions for using the old also enjoys a good rapport with private trams would have continued to meet arrivals stock. This aspect of BTS activities, which is owners who make trams available and with just a few steps from their trains. However, outside the normal fare structure, is based organisations like the for Blackpool North (about 600m inland from at Rigby Road. It is led by Bryan Lindop who temporary tram exchanges. To extend the the seafront near North Pier) became the says that running a heritage service following Heritage reach and package options, vintage town’s principal terminus, losing its tram the 2012 changes was – perhaps with some buses are expected to join the service. services on the Layton line in 1936 and understatement – “a bit of a struggle.” Outside of special events, regulations completely by 1963. However, relieved of the demands of working preclude public access to Rigby Road. Blackpool North adjoins the completed first the normal service, repairs and restoration This will change if the ambition to create a phase of the Talbot Gateway redevelopment could begin in earnest: "We look after the fleet visitor centre on the site is realised, probably of a decayed area; the second phase will better than ever before – it is now in a good using parts of the building to be retained include the terminus of the tramway condition. With open, closed and double- for Heritage Tram Tours. Land around the extension on a site presently occupied by the deck trams, we can cope with any conditions.” premises is now in demand for new housing Wilko store and a multi-storey car park. After The Heritage service range has proliferated, and some of the Blackpool Transport site – their removal, the ground will be lowered too, being a mix of pre-booked and turn-up possibly that currently used for buses – may for the tracks and an island platform. The formats. The mainstay is a frequent service be made available for such developments. intention is to create a clear line of sight and a over short and long routes, plus Gold natural progress to the trams for those leaving Weekends when there are six or more trams Returning inland trains. The light rail enhancement is being in use. With five scheduled for 2017, the If all goes to plan in a GBP22m (EUR26m) mirrored by heavy rail as improvements ‘Great British Night Out’ with onboard project, by spring 2019, trams will again including Blackpool North – Preston – catering is run in association with Harry take passengers into central Blackpool and Manchester electrification, resignalling and a Ramsden Fish and Chips and there are several easy transfers between trains and trams will new train fleet are due from 2018. private hire options, plus the very popular resume. It will be the first extension since The tramway extension will follow Talbot Christmas specials. Pleasure Beach – Starr Gate opened in 1926. Road which broadly defines the north of the With Heritage being a separate entity, In what remains widely viewed as an error central shopping area. With a stop for station- this allows the continued use of the (and even then contrary to the Beeching bound trams at Talbot Square, the twin otherwise non-compliant C-Fleet. Mr Plan for British railway rationalisation), tracks will join the existing line between Lindop adds: “With the costs involved, Blackpool Central Station was closed in the staggered platforms of North Pier. The connection stubs were installed when track was relaid during the system’s upgrading. It is a configuration that will enable a mainly ten-minute service that will add two routes serving Blackpool North. These will alternate, northwards as far as Bispham and southwards to Pleasure Beach, thereby adding capacity over the core section. The present service will continue, as now, with a mainly Starr Gate – Fleetwood Ferry operation. Two additional Flexity 2 trams have been ordered from Bombardier (due late 2017) in connection with changes due to the extension. Although efforts focus on the Blackpool North extension, the potential of taking the tramway southward over the municipal boundary near Starr Gate remains under official consideration. Now at Rigby Road for a long-term restoration, privately-owned car 43 of Lytham St Annes Corporation Tramways (closed 1937) would have worked from that system and into Blackpool. If both projects are realised, it may do so once more In Blackpool since 1981, Bolton Corporation 66 was built with an open top deck in 1901 and is the oldest – and sharing the tracks with a modern light Heritage tram. The location is near the site of the former Blackpool Central station. rail service.

212 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Reduce Costs The design and implementation of urban and light rail networks in busy towns and cities presents signi cant engineering challenges. At the same time, the pressure to minimise disruption and cost has never been greater.

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30 May - 1 June 2017, Stand N/214 Münster - Germany

21 & 22 June 2017, Stand F1B Quinton Rail Technology Centre - UK

Road Crossings // Pedestrian Crossings // Tram Stops // Depots // Anti-Trespass

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www.uitpsummit.org In collaboration with Supporting organisations Local hosts LRT Engineering LRT ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE TAUT reports from a packed day of activities at Blackpool's LRT Engineering Excellence event.

he inaugural LRT Engineering Excellence day on 5 April welcomed over 60 delegates to INEERING Blackpool for a lively day of debate ENG on focused topics of relevance to Tthose with responsibility for the day-to-day EXCELLENCE operation of light and urban rail networks. LRT A range of manufacturers and service providers from across the industry also showcased innovations designed to save money, improve reliability, reduce maintenance time and improve safety. Supported by Blackpool Transport and UKTram, guests debated best practice at a time of unprecedented expansion and growth in passenger numbers across the UK’s systems – in excess of 250m passengers were carried in 2016, covering over 21m miles. At the end of the day, Blackpool Transport rolled out Balloon 717 to take delegates on tours of its depots at Starr Gate and Rigby Road. Colin Kerr, Engineering Manager from ABOVE AND BELOW: Delegates at April’s LRT Engineering Excellence Day had the opportunity to , welcomed delegates to debate best practice with colleagues from across the industry, as well as getting hands-on demonstrations of the event alongside James Carney, Finance innovative new equipment and a tour of both of Blackpool's tramway depots. N. Pulling and Commercial Director of Blackpool Transport, and chaired throughout. For more on the Blackpool tramway, see page 208.

LRT design and managing safety David Keay, now an independent consultant following over 20 years at the UK’s Railways Inspectorate, gave an insight into maintaining safety in the public domain. In particular he focused on the challenges presented by the interaction between trams, pedestrians and other road vehicles. Many of the safety incidents are preventable, he argued, presenting European between constructors, operators, engineers research that suggests that pedestrians and the supply chain at an earlier stage. More TALKING TECHNOLOGY... account for 10% of all collisions, but 50% of collaborative working with suppliers on all fatalities, while in North America 80% of reliability issues and common failures could A range of technical presentations were given all fatalities are pedestrians. A strong focus on result in a more efficient operation and avoid from key industry suppliers, including: safety culture is required, he contended, with gold-plating, he concluded. Such thinking Rene Fueler from Strabag showed how milling can research showing that the root causes of 87% could also influence issues of reliability be a preferential solution for track maintenance – of serious or fatal accidents could have been and good asset management, increasing creating fewer hazards and being more respectful discovered by closer interaction beforehand availability and reducing cost. to the urban environment while creating a better with operating and maintenance staff. In the afternoon David Crawley of result, with a real focus on the benefits of milling A proactive approach was suggested, with Xanta Rail asked: what measures could be as a treatment for rail and switches. audits and inspections resulting in preventive considered grossly disproportionate when Lars Grüner from Vossloh examined the application of high-speed rail grinding and mini actions, faults being dealt with and staff addressing rail safety? He explored what milling machines, as well as a detailed look at being engaged in a company’s safety plans. constitutes an appropriate response to any switch maintenance that considered sources of Measures to deter road vehicles from track given risk, and whether its implementation defects in switches and crossings such as wheel incursions are more widely used in mainland undermines the business model of a burns, impacts and spalls. He concluded by Europe than the UK, he illustrated, such service. Consistency and common sense in looking at defect measurement techniques such as tram-only gates or bollards that prevent appraising risk and implementing safety as ultrasonic testing and how the captured data is unauthorised access onto tram tracks. strategy is key, he argued. applied to preventative maintenance regimes. Clive Pennington of Mott MacDonald's Mr Crawley looked at railings and platform Christopher Johnson from RS Clare gave a detailed overview of rail lubricants and their fascinating presentation on emerging edge doors, and whether their application applications, with particular consideration of trends in LRT engineering began with and cost was proportionate to the risks posed temperature stability and the changes in viscosity the contention that many systems are not to passengers without them. He finished caused by temperature fluctuations. designed with ease of future maintenance with a brief analysis of the fatal October 2016 Mike Mustard of Findlay Irvine presented on the and resilience in mind, citing battery Sandilands accident on London , challenges of maintaining a rail system despite charging points, infrastructure drainage, considering some responses that might be often extreme changes in weather. Aspects of track-related noise issues and flange disproportionate, including the possible weather monitoring were considered, including lubrication as just a few examples. introduction of automation to trams. a discussion of a prototype developed by Findlay Considering the confluence of roles of the Irvine that measures ice on the contact wire which has been installed on ; as the engineer and asset manager, many of the Details of future LRT Engineering Excellence well as a wireless rail temperature sensor that issues that affect day-to-day operations could events can be found at www.mainspring.co.uk/ was installed on Tramlink’s track. be resolved through more open engagement engineering-day/

214 / JUNE 2016 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Advertorial WEATHER DATA MATTERS

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www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 215 Track geometry WHERE ART MEETS ENGINEERING David Holt illustrates how good infrastructure design can be technically and financially efficient and aesthetically pleasing at the same time.

here is more to tramway and parents with small children – it is worth on the new Metrolink Second City Crossing engineering than the essentials remembering that every one of us starts (2CC), which like the lost Mosley Street stop of getting vehicles from A to B. life with no personal mobility. On the would have relieved the busy interchange The appearance of track and other side of the country, the Tyne & Wear at St Peter’s Square. An additional stop on overhead line equipment (OLE) Metro was already showing the way with 2CC would, moreover, equalise the 1CC/2CC canT be enhanced so that it looks stylish multi-accessibility, and it became evident running times between St Peter’s Square and and contributes to the city’s ambience and that improved access wasn’t going to be just Victoria, simplifying service planning and becomes a civic asset – art takes many forms, a question of getting wheelchairs or balancing the network core. so why shouldn’t tramways be one of them? pushchairs on and off light rail vehicles. While few may specifically notice, any Welcoming a wide range of passengers Keeping it smooth more than they go around in their daily lives would imply a need for a new focus on Lateral dynamic disturbance is related admiring buildings, I hope that this article journey quality by providing as smooth and mainly to cornering characteristics – curve will show that good-looking tramways can event-free a ride as possible. radius, superelevation and curve shape are be more cost-effective than unsightly ones Elderly people and children, for example, key factors. There are several textbooks and how being easy on the eye adds to the may lack the strength to resist powerful dating from as long ago as the start of the feel-good factor. dynamic forces, and their reflexes may not be 20th Century with formulae for determining More than a century ago, elegance was fast enough to react quickly to sudden jerks in the precise shape of curves. Inside the lovingly designed into tramways and unpredicted directions. People with walking PWI publication there were photographs infrastructure contributed greatly to civic showing transitioned tramway curves, yet pride, instead of being just a collection of the text included the words “the need to functional clutter. Where traction poles “There may be a fixation on provide transitions for passenger comfort were necessary they were, in the style of the low speeds in city centres... are minimal”. Why is it that some of today’s day, decorated with extravagant scrollwork, practitioners seem so ambivalent about track spiky finials and ornate cast iron bases as but track distortion geometry and its relationships to improved well as being painted in attractive colours accessibility and to track maintenance? instead of the plain black or grey of today’s should never be used as a It may be that there is a fixation with low popular supposition. The track embodied tramway speeds in city centres and with the gracefully-shaped transition curves which speed-limiting tool. That tram’s ability to negotiate contortions in looked, and felt to the passenger, far more track. The rules of physics, however, don’t natural and efficient than the clumsy is the job of comprehensive entirely take a holiday at low speeds and the trainset-like joining of sharp circular curves design and execution of tram track needs to directly to straight track or, worse still, via staff training.” be future-proofed as it is far more permanent ugly and troublesome kinks. than anything that runs on it. To this end, Shiny steel rails are an attractive aids have their own difficulties holding on, track distortion should never be used as advertisement of the mode and are expressive and they won’t always find a seat. Buses a speed-limiting tool. That is the job of of the tram’s ability to combine the best can unfortunately subject elderly, disabled, comprehensive staff training and supervision elements of railways and tramways. Looking pregnant and other passengers to a cocktail of and, possibly in the near future, of GPS-based good, as well as adding to their appeal, also unpleasant dynamic events. The potentially electronics such as SIMOVE (TAUT 950). happens to be related to technical excellence far more civilised journey quality of a tram The reverse curve which takes Metrolink and whole-life cost reduction. can, with careful engineering, ensure that trams outbound from St Peter’s Square across This exploration begins in Den Haag more riders are able to relax, knowing that they Oxford Street is a good example of what can than 30 years ago, when I was made painfully are not going to be thrown around the be achieved. Frequent double units need to aware of tram track geometry after being passenger saloon. clear the busy road crossing quickly so as to launched violently across the standing area It should be emphasised that, while keep the traffic moving and the naturally- at the back end of a long articulated unit as it initiatives aimed at improving access and ride flowing track geometry enables the trams was accelerated fiercely out of a sharp curve. quality may be intended primarily for the to accelerate freely away into Mosley Street Even being relatively fit and able to hang on benefit of people with reduced mobility, all without disturbance to passengers. tightly, in a lapse of concentration I was flung other passengers benefit – although they may On the double inbound tracks here, trams against a stanchion so hard that my ribs were not always realise that it is often lobbying by can overtake each other, and with no surface bruised. Years later I was surprised to see the the mobility-handicapped which has gained markings it is easy for pedestrians to be same type of tram about to enter the same enhancements for everyone. confused about the directions from which curve on the front cover of a Permanent Way It does have to be said, though, that if trams will approach. This brings a conflict – Institution treatise on best practice for tram high platforms are adopted rather than trams on all three tracks need to get a move track design and construction. low floors for light rail services, they may on to clear the road and pedestrian crossings Shortly after the UK city of Manchester not be especially street-compatible. This quickly, but in the interests of safety they announced its tramway plans, it became might mean that desirable stops have to ought to go more slowly. clear that wheelchair users would be catered be omitted or even done away with, as in If the pedestrians are ever protected by for, along with all the other beneficiaries of Manchester, where Mosley Street lost its signals, and if the trams are ever fitted with a improved access for more ambulant disabled popular outbound stop. I would contend that more effective audible warning of approach, people; senior citizens; pregnant women; there really ought to have been one more stop and if overtaking by trams is ever prohibited

216 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org ABOVE: Resembling the rim of the new 12-sided GBP1 coin, crossing the centre of this high-level view is the outbound Second City Crossing (2CC) track at St Peter’s Square in Manchester. It embodies three curved sections and two straight sections. What could justify ‘breaking the back’ of this curve in two places like this? No bus would ever follow such an odd wheelpath. The inbound 2CC curve (nearest the camera) consists of one large natural curve. Why couldn’t its outbound neighbour be the same? Matt Doran there, it may be permissible with caution to increase the line speeds slightly. That is where the smoothly-flowing track geometry will really come into its own. The techniques for refining track geometry are closely related to those used by the designers of roller coasters. In the case of theme park rides, the objective is to design thrills into the system; for public transport, one of the aims should be to design thrills out of the system. Passengers don’t want their knuckles whitened on their way to work, and neither do they want their journey to be tiresomely sluggish – so why isn’t dynamic comfort at reasonable speeds designed into every aspect of every tramway system?

The role of transitions Why is fixed-track geometry so important? Manual steering, even on dodgem cars, can’t accommodate instant changes of curvature because of the time taken for a LEFT AND INSET: steering mechanism to operate; for the same The outbound track from Piccadilly Gardens in reason, cars, lorries, buses or ships can never Manchester looking towards follow a circular path throughout any change the delta junction. Surely the of direction. short sharp left-hand curve just On main line railways, changes of before the points could have curvature are always gradual enough to been extended towards the accommodate cant gradients in which the camera to create a more natural outer, or ‘high’ rail, is raised higher than path? Every tram, however, the low rail. Cant is applied so as to tilt the must follow this contorted train and offset the cornering force so that wheel-path causing the wheel flanges, even at low speeds, to passengers (and their soup) are not subjected steadily gouge out a potential to undue lateral forces. climbing point for themselves It is rarely possible to build optimum tilt, as shown in the inset. Has or cant, into street tramways because the traction pole location dictated tracks must lie flush with the roads in which All images courtesy of David Holt except where stated. the track geometry here?

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 217 Track geometry

they are embedded. Having said that, today’s profusion of humps and potholes makes one wonder (tongue-in-cheek) whether road surface distortion may have become less unacceptable these days… In any case, there may not always be enough ‘give’ in the articulation and suspension systems of modern trams to provide the twist tolerance needed to allow them to ‘lean into’ superelevated curves, and the partial unloading of individual wheels must be avoided in the interests of minimising derailment risk. An absence of superelevation does not, however, cancel out the desirability of easing entry into and exit from every curve of whatever radius and at whatever line speed, if only for the sake of preventing sidewear unevenness. Late in the 19th Century, tramway engineers began inserting transition sections, or easements as they are sometimes known, at Elegant track geometry at München’s Ostfriedhof has been woven into the jigsaw of components which make either end of curves to enable trams to enter up this complicated network, ensuring that trams are not handicapped in their smooth and brisk progress. Pre-sorting and post-merging techniques, with contiguous interlacing, have been used not only to shift and and leave them smoothly – at junctions, separate the point switches, but also to facilitate the free-flowing nature of this fine expression of the steelfounder’s transitions were cast into the special trackwork. art. Also, where is the forest of traction poles you may see at similarly complex junctions on other networks? Sudden sideways shocks to trams, track and passengers were reduced in severity, and the Transitions were once especially effective applying on the vast city tramway systems ‘angle of attack’ of wheel flanges against rails with two-axle trams in which the leading of yesteryear. Running gear configurations was evened out through curves, eliminating wheels, through the axlebox hornways, are constantly evolving, and not all of them localised gouging and reducing both the rigidly transmitted all lateral shocks directly feature conventional bogies with their self- whole-life cost and the risk of flange-climb. to the entire mass of the tram and its contained virtual transition properties. Furthermore, when the speed of general passengers. The whole cornering force was Single axles and the steering of individual traffic increased during the following transmitted from the rails to the passengers, wheels are strengthening the need for decades, trams could keep up instead of equipment and bodywork – a poor state of transition curves to ease entry into quaintly lurching their way round contorted affairs from an engineering and customer- and exit from all curves by all trams, corners. This is part of the future-proofing of care viewpoint if curves lack transitions at present and future. One thing is certain – good tramway engineering. Another benefit either end. Most London County Council transition curves are far more compatible of flowing track geometry is that it subtly trams, including the M class four-wheelers, with technological developments than enhances the aesthetic appeal of tram track had swing bolsters in an attempt to soften untransitioned, or kinked, curves can as circular curves abutting directly to the effects of entering curves. The need to ever be. tangents look unnatural, as well as being maintain momentum when negotiating technically inferior. junctions with gaps in the sub-surface If transition curves, preferably with rails meant that London conduit ABOUT THE AUTHOR prescribed shapes such as spirals of an trams tended to enter curves fast, and that appropriate length, are specified, curve made it necessary to soften the process with David Holt has 50 years’ hands-on experience with trams and tramways, including ten years quality can be secured through rigorous whatever means possible. Swing bolsters and working on the railway – in rail management supervision. Failing to specify curve transitions helped, and bogies in any case support and signalling failures investigation. shape incurs a risk of geometrical anarchy reduce lateral shocks because of their ‘virtual He had a close involvement with Manchester taking hold, wherein the practitioner takes transition’ property, with the swivelling Metrolink user groups and was seconded onto advantage of the freedom to get the track from point of attachment to the bodywork some those forums as a representative for the LRTA to A to B without regard to future issues around way in rear of the leading axle. support Manchester’s tramway proposals against maintenance or passenger comfort. That is That was the situation in the heyday of vigorous opposition from groups who lamented just one way in which kinks can be inflicted tramways, but the laws of physics don’t the demise of the ‘Picc-Vic’ underground heavy rail alternative and planned to disrupt upon us. Certain standards must be reliably change, and the engineering principles Manchester’s tramway bills in Parliament. delivered, and that can’t just be left to chance. prevailing today are not different to those

The outbound Manchester Metrolink track from St Peter’s Square where it crosses Oxford Street. The same point switches easily filled with road The transitioned curves flow so smoothly into each A result of locating point switches in a bus lane. detritus, causing the point blades to ‘stand off’ so other and the adjoining tangents that it is impossible Those in Mosley Street, Manchester, could have been that detection is lost and damage to the toes of the to identify their start and finish points. Note also the installed clear of the carriageway and connected on to point blades is incurred. Here the points are cleared absence of traction poles; as on much of 2CC, the the divergence by contiguous interlacing. Instead, bus of debris by tram crew while buses and trams wait. wires have been unobtrusively attached to buildings, and tram services were repeatedly disrupted. This is After many more years of trouble, the bus lane was another aesthetic plus for the city centre. the stark reality of risk transfer. awkwardly diverted away from the point switches.

218 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Advertorial EXTENDING THE LIFE OF S&C Maurice Verheijen, Schweerbau's Head of International Sales & Operations, explores the key advantages of innovative mobile rotational planing technology.

n the same way as plain line tracks, switches and crossings (S&C) have the potential to suffer various forms of damage and defects that can have a significant impact on ride quality, Irunning behaviour and operational safety. Poor longitudinal and transverse rail profiles in S&C can not only cause reduced passenger comfort and increased noise and vibrations that can adversely affect nearby residents, they can also cause greatly increased wear on the S&C track system itself – including fastenings, ballast, sleepers and subgrade. This results in significantly ABOVE: A Schweerbau DHOB consist, capable of maintaining both main line and metro tracks and S&C. increased maintenance costs and also BELOW: The rotational planing head. impacts upon rolling stock upkeep. Also as with plain line rails, Rolling Contact Fatigue (RCF) defects in rails in S&C can impose a significant risk in operating safety. Sudden changes in rail profiles on running, stock and wing rails and switchblades when vehicles are running through S&C can induce high impact loads; these loads cause large stresses to components, potentially resulting in RCF-type damage such as head checks and gauge corner cracking. It is therefore of the utmost importance that rail transverse and longitudinal profiles in S&C are maintained properly and to the highest accuracy.

DHOB technology DHOB technology – also called rotational l Single-pass, high-output production, even Underground. The machine is compatible planing – combines the typical milling and in removing severe surface defects or RCF with UIC, W6A and LG1-2-3 loading gauges planing characteristics (for both accurate of significant depth and is capable of machining both rails transverse and longitudinal profiles) into l Fast setup times from travel to working mode simultaneously in tracks and switches. a single technique. Moreover, this new and vice versa (as little as three minutes) The base DHOB consists of two wagons, one technology allows for a change of target profiles and a fully-automated machining process containing the rotating planing system and during the rotational planing process; this l Full treatment of all rails within the switch, one containing a final polishing system and a way each rail can be independently machined including stock rail, guard rail and switch container for chips and swarf, and has its own to different transverse profiles depending on rails, at higher precision and accuracy traction system capable of 15km/h (approx. requirements such as anti-head check profiles than can be achieved by conventional 10mph). During transit it is capable of being on high rails, stock and switch rails in turnouts. S&C grinders towed at speeds of up to 100km/h (62mph). Rotational planing technology is based on a l Capable of producing an optimum and Depending on the application, the DHOB 1400mm-diameter cutting wheel that carries consistent running band on the rail head consist can be positioned and connected 32 cartridges. These cartridges hold straight and allowing for optimised rail profiles that inbetween either railway or metro locomotive/ and curved planing blades arranged to follow reduce contact stresses on the gauge corner control cars. the target contour of the rail head transverse and shoulder of the rails profile, extending from 14mm below the gauge l As rotational planing does not generate The finished result! A perfect running band that will face all the way to the field side of the rail. sparks or dust, no additional cleaning is give many miles of smooth, quiet running. The innovative characteristic of the required following machining. It is not technology is that each cutting tool, which necessary to cover or clean switch slide chairs can be independently positioned, performs and rollers, insulated joints and switching a rotating movement combined with a and signalling equipment. There is also short longitudinal movement – parallel to no need to re-lubricate slide chairs the running surface of the rail. Rotational following the DHOB machining process. planing allows for full machining of all types of rail on both tracks and switches, and can Machines for every occasion be used for both preventative and corrective The first Schweerbau DHOB machine has been treatment since the cutting depth of the tools in operation with Deutsche Bahn since 2013, can be adjusted from 0.2mm up to 2mm. subsequently joined by two more machines. Other major advantages are seen in regards Due to the demonstrated high quality to quality, productivity and the environment performance and accuracy of the machining compared to conventional grinding process, DHOB has been fully approved to FIND OUT MORE l High accuracy transverse profile, maximum work on high-speed tracks and S&C with line deviation from target profile is 0.1mm speeds of up to 300km/h (186mph). [email protected] l High accuracy longitudinal profile, well The DHOB is designed for working on both +49 (0) 5721 7804-0 within the requirements of the European main line railways and urban metro and www.schweerbau.de Norm 13241-3:2012 underground systems, including the London

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 219 STRABAG rail milling solutions

ith over 90 years’ experience, STRABAG Rail – part of the STRABAG SE Group that has 73 000 Wemployees – has grown into one of Europe’s largest rail construction contractors. A keen innovator and always seeking to bring new technologies to market, in 2010 the company invested in four high-quality rail machines – two CMondition onitoring rail and two road-rail – that utilise proven technology that has been accepted worldwide. These machines have seen project deployment across the European rail market onto tramway, light rail, metro and heavy rail systems of varying rail gauges. The advent of CNC machining and the challenge to gain better performance from the rail asset led to the development of mobile milling trains in the 1990s; this has matured and STRABAG’s multi-million investment has given it one of the largest and most modern fleets available. The core of the process is a 600mm-diameter high-speed rotating cutter head which is machined to the required , around which are mounted an array of tungsten carbide teeth. The enclosed housing enables recovery of the swarf generated, which can be recycled. The heat from the cutting process goes into the swarf rather than the rail, unlike grinding, and the enclosed cutter head means the process is safe, with low noise levels and giving a clean operational environment. Cutting depth is up to 0.9mm, against a typical 0.15mm for a multi-stone grinder and multiple heads means that up to 0.9mm of removal are possible in a single pass. The milling process leaves facets, around fingernail size, that can result in unacceptable noise levels until ‘run out’ Signalling by the passage of a vehicle’s wheels. To address this issue, a grinding wheel removes the edges of the milling facets to give Track a ground rail head profile of 3Чm or less finish. Every shift ends with a full report – i.e. the final rail profile, residual rail head depth, longitudinal rail profile, Civils surface roughness and delivery statistics, so the client is fully informed of the work delivered. The STRABAG team, in partnership with TES 2000 and Bakerail Services, are self contained, able to operate, maintain and fault find on the machine and have demonstrated this over six years of delivery. Come and talk to us, we have a solution. THE FUTURE OF UK MILLING

220 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Track maintenance TRACK MANAGEMENT: REPAIR OR REPLACE?

ABOVE: On-street tramway construction must take into account future maintenance. Birmingham city centre in July 2014. T. Sullivan TAUT considers some of the day-to-day challenges of the tramway infrastructure engineer.

riginally conceived in the 1850s, levels of environmental noise and vibration the concept of the grooved rail “Severe rail wear can in their immediate vicinity – this can uses a chunky rail head that lies cause uncomfortable require additional dampening mechanisms. flush with the roadway to carry l Adhesion: Pre-coated polymers can be a tram’s tyres while a groove passenger journeys and, extremely difficult to remove, negating any Oaccommodates the wheel flange. A check, or scrap value or transfer of used rail, so the keeper, forms the outside of the groove that in the most extreme ideal system will be easy to install and remove. the wheel flange slots into to steer the tram. l Resilience: Resistance to wear and Grooved rail requires a more substantial cases, potentially serious chemical attack is vital. Likewise, water mounting for weight transfer, while steel ingress into any elastomer is bad and as ice ties at regular intervals maintain the gauge. safety issues.” it can seriously degrade embedding Improved steel grades and alloy compositions materials such as foam. in recent decades have seen significant with the contractor rather than the engineer enhancements in rail life, evolving who will have maintenance responsibility for Wear and tear alongside advances in rolling stock the decades to come. Factors influencing the Economic pressures have seen a shift towards technology that have seen trams get longer, choice of rail embedding include: lifecycle cost reduction as the last things any heavier and with higher axle loads. Likewise, l Traffic: Heavy road traffic calls for undertaking desires are costly and disruptive direct contact with concrete and asphalt in substantial support. High lateral loads programmes of premature rail replacement. the early days of tramway construction has from heavy vehicles turning, accelerating Severe rail wear causes uncomfortable evolved into advanced embedding using or braking over tramlines can make rails passenger journeys, increased vehicle polymers and foams that reduce vibration roll, damaging the reinforcing material maintenance and, in the most extreme cases, and damage to the surrounding highway and placing incredibly demanding potentially serious safety issues. infrastructure and help mitigate issues such conditions on the rail. Concrete laid up to One of the most challenging issues for the as electrolytic corrosion. the top of the rail is also more supportive tramway engineer is gauge corner wear. This rail embedding system is at the heart than asphalt. On the tight curve radii, sometimes as low as of the street-running tramway. Most are l Insulation: Good electrical insulation is 15m, that is an unavoidable consequence of of a resilient polymer type, with variants vital in mitigating stray current issues that street running in tight urban environments, including bonded cork materials poured can affect sensitive under-street utilities lateral forces from a tram’s wheel flange into a channel surrounding the rail before apparatus and also in the prevention of create high and rapid levels of wear on the setting, and recycled rubber rail seats. As new electrolytic corrosion. Sensitive structures side of the grooved rail’s head. As this wear track is often installed as part of ‘turnkey’ such as laboratories, hospitals, concert increases, the outside edge of the wheel flange projects, the choice of system usually rests venues and radio stations also call for low approaches the check on the opposite rail

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which can become very thin and even sharp. This issue is exacerbated if the supporting bed allows the rails to roll and is even worse if there are no tie bars. Tramway and light rail networks set limits for allowable side wear for plain line running with additional limits for check wear to ensure the integrity of the rail for safe operation. Acceptable wear limits are the minimum section dimension at which the rail is capable of withstanding the stresses of passing vehicles without breaking or deforming. Each system has different maximum limits and there are legitimate reasons for this, such as varying rolling stock specifications, axle loads and wheel profiles, different rail support structures and deemed acceptable levels of flange running. Once wear reaches these limits, the rail has to either be repaired or replaced. Degradation depends upon many factors TOP: Rails must not protrude beyond the height of the including the relative hardness of the wheel surrounding surface if you are to avoid trip hazards. STRAIL and the rail, the choice of rolling stock and ABOVE: A close-up of this running rail shows ABOVE: Spalling around rolling contact fatigue cracks severe corrugation damage that, if left, could cause its upkeep, and the maintenance regime for in the running rail. Bakerail serious vehicle damage. Bakerail the track system. Gauge corner wear usually governs the life of an entire piece of track, and replacing the rail – with all the issues “Corrugation is a ‘catch-22’. If left, it gets worse at an associated with street closures and breaking up the roadway – can be very expensive. exponential rate, yet rail life is reduced each time The good news is that its onset can be delayed by lubrication or friction the rail is ground.” management of the wheel/rail interface in curves, either from wayside top of rail cost, also bringing with it increased elastic bearing, while additional options applicators or vehicle-mounted units. challenges in future maintenance as include pre-assembled setting systems and Repairs involve weld restoration of the corner both types are more difficult to affect drainage boxes. gauge, but this can be costly and requires future repairs. Joining heat-treated steel skilled attention to ensure a robust weld to non-heat-treated rail can also result in Corrugation and friction modification and a process that avoids damage to the inconsistent properties across the joint, Rail corrugation is a more complex challenge. surrounding embedding material. or a requirement for more expensive While experts still argue about its exact Building up the parent metal with weld composite welding processes. mechanics, most agree that it results is an attractive solution, but traditional rail Increasing carbon quantities has been from the interplay between the natural welding standards call for the heat-affected found to increase resistance to wear and frequencies of the elements involved – the zone – the weld plus 75mm either side – to rolling contact fatigue, so judicial alloying vehicle suspension and the rails themselves be pre-heated to over 300°C. As embedding is necessary to limit inherent brittleness. – together with complex Hertzian forces at materials can fail at these high temperatures, Some recent data also suggests that rails of the wheel/rail interface. At best it causes the to address the issue, a technique pioneered more than 300HB hardness may suffer more annoyance of noisy (or ‘roaring’) rails, at in the UK almost a decade ago on the Sheffield adversely from ‘squats’, leading to more worst it can significantly reduce rail life and Supertram network saw the development of frequent grinding as well as a shortening of cause vehicle damage. ‘cold welding’. This requires a pre-heat of just the rail’s overall lifespan. As corrugation begins with a discontinuity 60-80°C. The secret to this technique is that Squats are a type of metal fatigue that in the track system, when installing or heat developed laying down the second weld result from wheel impacts that ‘bruise’ the replacing rails it is important to ensure bead is used to heat-treat the root bead, and rail head. As with other phenomena, squats that welds are accurately trimmed and that so on. The final sacrificial bead is ground off. deteriorate quickly if left un-remedied and, support systems are continuous. What seems The lower temperature weld avoids damage if unmanaged, can lead to rail fracture. certain is that corrugation is more prevalent to the surrounding polymer material while So although the periods between weld in embedded track than ballasted track. maintaining robust, crack-free weld deposits. restoration, grinding and milling may be The usual means of rectification is to grind After repeated repairs tramway longer, the rail may need to be replaced once the head of the rail, but height is lost each maintainers face the dilemma: repair or those wear limits are reached. So perhaps time this happens and repeated treatments replace? The installation of hardened rail harder and harder rails are not the full answer. reduce the rail’s cross-section, eventually with a high wear resistance – either through Maintainers and manufacturers seek the creating a ridged tripping hazard for cyclists a higher carbon content or heat treatment holy grail of smooth riding characteristics, and pedestrians as the running surface sinks – can be attractive as, in general terms, the minimised rolling noise and vibration, lower into the road. harder the rail, the longer it will last. But this long intervals between repairs and easy Corrugation is a ‘catch-22’. If left, it gets option comes with caveats. weldability. , Lyon and worse at an exponential rate, yet conversely, More common ‘softer’ R200 and R260 Casablanca have all undertaken either rail rail life is reduced each time the rail is ground. grades provide better welding and deposit- replacement or new-build installations A possible solution to early rail replacement welding conditions on embedded track, and in recent years with these so called may be to build up the rail head with careful allow easier rail reprofiling through grinding ‘high-performance’ rails, and, so far, with welding – perhaps using a modified version of or milling. If the main objective is to avoid rail encouraging results. the cold welding technique described above replacement at all costs, this may offer the best Meanwhile, modern switch devices and to reduce the potential for damage to the solution to keeping systems open for business turnouts promise to be ‘lubrication and embedding material. for longer. Rail/wheel interaction will by itself maintenance free’, providing benefits for the Friction modification is a promising method help regular grinding and maintenance of the environment as well as cost-savings. of slowing the onset of corrugation. Water- rail to avoid surface micro-cracks. Modular grooved rail turnouts on precast and chemical-bound solutions are available On the other hand, it is natural that more concrete slabs provide a fully-assembled unit to reduce the friction coefficient at the wheel/ specialised rail comes at a higher initial with integrated insulation and continuous rail interface and where used it has been noted

222 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org No more rusty rails Electrolytic corrosion is another problematic issue. The best safeguards are to ensure the embedding material on street-running sections is insulating and continuous throughout, the drainage system is effective, welds are sound and all joints are well bonded. At its simplest, electrolysis occurs when direct electric current is passed from one pole to another through dirty water. As the water splits into its component elements – oxygen and hydrogen – the former collects at the positive pole (anode) where it is incredibly corrosive. If the rail insulation fails at two or more points then there is conductivity outside the insulating sheath and the current will pass down two parallel paths – the rail itself and outside the sheath. The latter will usually have a much higher resistance and therefore carry a small proportion of the current, but the rail at the positive end is an anode and a small current over a period of many days or weeks can be extremely damaging. Advances in technology over the past two decades now make mobile milling for embedded street track a proven and cost-efficient – as well as environmentally-friendly – method of rail head treatment. Bakerail Modern adhesive rail coatings can help prevent rail corrosion, usually through a that noise levels fall appreciably. While some Real-time digital monitoring technology simple one-pack application that is resistant may argue that wheel spin and locking of the is increasing the visibility of track asset to both abrasion and mechanical damage. wheels under hard braking must necessarily condition, offering new possibilities for Although such coatings shouldn’t impede increase if friction is reduced, there seems predictive maintenance. While such welding of the rail, they are nevertheless little doubt that, whatever the mechanism, systems are still relatively new in light rail designed to be easily stripped back to allow friction modifiers for street tramways show applications, the potential for long-term weld restoration and reapplication. benefits for both the environment and cost savings could be significant in maintainers alike. These concerns, however, reductions to physical inspections and Thanks to Paul Baker of Bakerail Services and must be balanced against the likelihood of generating a more accurate picture of an Peter Daly of Thermit Welding in the preparation additional wheel burns and flats. overall network’s health. of this article.

THE INNOVATORS IN RAIL JOINING TECHNOLOGY 4 October 2017 Thermit provides a diverse range of specialised products and rail services:

> Single Use Crucible in regular use by Network Entries open now! Rail and > The Smart-Weld Innovation Project > Training, installation and inspection > Repair and resurfacing of worn rails

> Track measurement and For more information contact: performance monitoring [email protected] > Rail grinding – corrugation and wear alternatively call us on: > Ballast stabilisation by gluing 01708 522626

t: +44 (0)1733 367600 @ [email protected] www.lightrailawards.com

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Thermit Welding 2017.indd 1 28/04/2017 16:37 Krefeld

In an area once famed for railway manufacture, Krefeld in north-western SYSTEMS GERMANY Germany has a modernised tramway Krefeld FACTFILE that is at the centre of the region’s public transport. No. Krefeld, Neil Pulling reports in 116 Germany words and pictures.

refeld is in Nordrhein- The 1950s and ’60s brought Bombardier centre, much of today’s system Westfalen (NRW), many tramway closures in Germany, Flexity Outlook C has suburban surroundings, about 30km (19 miles) especially around Nordrhein- 670 at Rheinstrasse in places bordering countryside. on 4 August 2016. north-west of the state Westfalen, and by 1969 this included Although Krefeld is removed capital, Düsseldorf. the bigger system in nearby from Germany’s long-distance KWest of the River Rhine and distinct Mönchengladbach with which passenger network, the railway from the neighbouring Ruhr area, Krefeld once had an interurban tram industry is important locally. Rolling Krefeld’s historic economic staple was link. Following cutbacks including stock manufacturer Waggonfabrik textiles, giving rise to the tag ‘city of the outer routes, by the early 1960s Uerdingen assumed the name of the silk and velvet’ although it now has a Krefeld’s administration had opted absorbed tram-maker Düwag and mixed manufacturing sector. to support a tramway of around 40km upon closure of its Düsseldorf site, When horse and steam-powered (25 miles). The composition has tram production was concentrated at tram services began in 1883, Krefeld altered, but essentially it remains Uerdingen. A supplier to the national had almost three decades left with a on a similar scale. railway, Düwag was perhaps better former spelling, as used by the early Maintaining faith in the mode, known for vehicles made for many concession, Crefelder Strassenbahn AG. by the end of the 21st Century’s urban systems. Within Germany and In 1929 the city was combined with first decade the city was renewing widely seeing second lives elsewhere, adjoining Uerdingen which borders infrastructure and the fleet. long-lived Düwag stock remains a the Rhine, with the tramway passing Krefeld’s population, currently about mainstay for many operators. into municipal ownership by 1931. 233 000, is well distributed around Passing wholly to Siemens The Krefeld name officially applied a mainly level and low-rise urban by 1999, the Siemens Mobility’s for the unified entity from 1940. setting. As Krefeld has a compact Krefeld-Uerdingen site is now the

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THE FLEET Most regular services are covered by 31 Bombardier Flexity Outlook C (Cityrunner type) 6NGTW five-section trams numbered 601-619 and 660-671. The initial batch with the first delivery in August 2009 had part of the assembly at Bombardier’s former site in Aachen, NRW. Built in Vienna and with seating amendments resulting from passenger recommendations, the last of a second batch arrived in December 2014. Both have Vossloh Kiepe (recently taken over by Knorr-Bremse) electrical equipment and are fitted with clear onboard information systems. The fully low-floor, bi-directional trams with air conditioning are 29.9m long with an internally signed capacity for 155. The 46 seats have a varied configuration, influenced by the 2.3m width and positioning of the wheelsets. SWK identifies some Düwag high-floorM8C bi-directional trams (originally 20, 831-850) built 1980-81 as still active. They are 25.9m long, with a capacity for 140 passengers, 54 seated. The SWK red and white livery predominates, although there are commercial and community promotions carried. The last Düwag 8GTW in normal service was withdrawn in July 2010. Ten went to the small Grudziądz system in northern Poland; an intention to sell others to Sofia, Bulgaria, was not realised. ABOVE: Used by SWK and Rheinbahn, tracks on both sides of Ostwall are dual gauge. The extended and modernised SWK Weeserweg depot is between line 041 Obergplatz and Schicks stops. By name a BELOW: 604 draws away from the SWK Hauptbahnhof platform nearest the information centre. depot, the Hüls Betriebshof line 044 terminus has some covered track, but evidence underfoot suggests this now mainly shelters “Maintaining faith in the mode, by the end of pigeons. It is, however, attributed with assisting survival of tram 93 ‘Blauen Enzian’ dating from 1900 that is now in the care of the the 21st Century’s first decade, the city was Linie 1 association at Weeserweg (www.linie1-krefeld.de) which also runs 1964-built Düwag GT6 626 as a party tram. renewing infrastructure and the fleet.”

LEFT: Bockumer Platz stop: the Rathaus (town hall) was completed shortly before Bockum became part of Krefeld in 1907.

RIGHT: From the 2014 batch, 665 takes the northbound 042 route at the junction on Uerdinger Strasse.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 225 Krefeld main factory for production of the AG. The abbreviated SWK identity was BELOW: Düwag 26 minutes (043) and 45 minutes (044). Desiro range and Velaro high-speed adopted for transport in 1990, with B80D pair 4102 There are approximately 100 buses to trains. Deutsche Bahn has a large SWK MOBIL GmbH now including (with markings for work SWK’s 23 bus routes. Trams are works at Krefeld, visible from the subsidiaries for bus operations in other by-then defunct included in the night network. Krefeld Hbf-Duisburg line which locations; SWK is also a partner in the bistro) and 4243 in Despite a now wholly bi-directional a later Rheinbahn has tramstops near the Linn and Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr (VRR) livery leave tram fleet for normal services, loops Uerdingen stations. transport union. Krefeld’s metre-gauge Ostwall, bound remain in use and a triangle allows Krefeld’s bus and tram operations tramway has four tramlines, 041-044, for Düsseldorf Hbf. turning at Hüls. Mostly double-tracked, form one of five groupings in the a designation begun in 1980, and much of the SWK system follows municipal SWK Stadtwerke Krefeld end-to-end journey times are between suburban roads, with about 15km

DEPOT

Neukirchener Straße 044 Hüls Betriebshof Steeger Dyk Pappelstraße

Am Schützenhof Traarer Straße

Magdeburger Kützhofweg Straße

Inrath NETWORK FACTS Siedlung

Opened: 1883 (electrification 1900) Bockum Friedhof Length: 37km (23 miles) Kapuzinerkloster Lines: 4 Depots: 1 Schroersdyk Approx. weekday hours: 04.30-23.30  Line frequency: 10-15 minutes Weyerhofstraße Gauge: SWK 1000mm; Moritzplatz Rheinbahn 1435mm Sonnenhof Power: 750V dc, overhead supply Oranierring Fleet: 40 Systems: Stadtwerke Krefeld Grotenburg/ (SWK) – www.swk.de and Moltke- Zoo Nordwall straße Rheinbahn – www.rheinbahn.de Viktoria- Sprödentalplatz straße Regional network: Verkehrsverbund Friedrichstraße Großmarkt Buddestraße Rhein-Ruhr (VRR) www.vrr.de Flora- Botanischer Westwall/Rathaus  straße Garten Civic and tourist information: Bahn- Glockenspitz Stadtgarten U70 straße www.krefeld.de Rheinstraße Gutenbergstraße U76 Sandberg Obergplatz Dreikönigenstraße Voltastraße Kempener Platte Dießem Oberbenrad Schicks Krefeld Hbf 043 Nordring Klinikum Krefelder Tönisvorst Straße Biwak Martinstraße Feldstraße 041 Wilhelmplatz Am Königshof / Hochschule Lehmheide Königshof

Mengshofstraße Von-Ketteler Straße

Oberschlesienstraße Stadtpark Fischeln

Thyssenstraße Fischeln Rathaus Fischeln ThyssenKrupp Clemensstraße Nirosta Fischeln Friedhof Grundend

Edelstahlwerk Düsseldorf Tor 3 041 042

A chat before departure in the yard at Hüls Betriebshof terminus.

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(9.4 miles) in dedicated rights of way. Along the eastern edge of Krefeld’s RIGHT: Krefeld An unusual feature of the system is a shopping district is the long, straight Hbf dominates the brief central street overlap with an thoroughfare called Ostwall; separated southern end of arm of the much larger Düsseldorf- by a grassed promenade, a roadway Ostwall. centred Rheinbahn standard-gauge for each direction incorporates dual- BELOW RIGHT: In system. Opened in 1898, gauge track and a total of seven light a more rural setting, the Düsseldorf-Krefeld line that rail arms meet near either end of Elfrather Mühle became part of Rheinbahn was Ostwall. To the south, the platforms is at the end of a a pioneer of electric traction for identified as Hauptbahnhof are spread long section with a rail passenger services. around a junction immediately separate right of way.

Elfrather Mühle 042

Neukirchener Straße

Pappelstraße

Traarer Straße

Magdeburger Straße

Uerdingen Bf 043 Bockum Friedhof Lange Straße Am Röttgen Oldenburger Weg Mündelheimer Gertrudis- Straße straße

Fasanenstraße

Bockumer Platz Rhein Sonnenhof Sollbrüggen- straße Rheinhafen Westpreußen- straße Danziger 044 Platz

Rembertstraße Am Steinacker Buddestraße Burg Linn Linn Bf Glindholzstraße

Sandberg

ABOVE: Krefelder Strasse in Hüls, one of the system's single-track sections.

Grundend

Düsseldorf

Around two months after entering service, 602 and 1980s Rheinbahn stock on the former Rheinstrasse layout in March 2010.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 227 Krefeld outside Krefeld Hbf. Distinguished by a tall clock tower, the station stood amidst ruins by the end of World War Two. Three routes converge at junctions between Nordwall and Rheinstrasse stops at Ostwall’s northern end. With an overall transparent roof, Rheinstrasse is the most prominent stop on the system, hosting all SWK tramlines plus Rheinbahn U70/ U76; the reconfigured stop opened in December 2015 following a two-year installation. Disrupted access caused by the works was identified by SWK as reducing network ridership, being 39 million journeys in 2015. There are non-revenue connections which allow SWK stock to bypass the busy Ostwall tracks. Recent renewals and upgrading have also led to temporary curtailed and substituted tram operations. Ostwall’s dual-gauge tracks extend to holding sidings just north of ABOVE: Trams 606 and 666 cross near Oberschlesienstrasse stop. Rheinstrasse, the northern terminus Remnants of the Tackheide line closed in 2013 are in the background. for U70 and U76. To the south, these services overlap with those of SWK as track loop around the streets. It has far as a junction at Siemenstrasse near the distinction of being at one end of Hauptbahnhof. Although separate, Germany's ‘longest tram ride’, whereby the systems also converge in Fischeln, it is possible to travel by a series of light Krefeld’s most southerly district where rail lines for 102km (64 miles) as far as line 041 trams use a return loop at Heven Dorf, Witten, on the Bochum Grundend terminus, which is next to and Gelsenkirchen Bogestra system. Rheinbahn’s high platforms. Although regional train times better South of Oberschlesienstrasse the 45 minutes of U76 (40 minutes stop, line 042 has the terminus for the infrequent limited stop U70) Edelstahlwerk Tor 3 (Stainless Steel between Krefeld Hbf and Düsseldorf ABOVE: Shortly before dispatch to Poland, Works Gate 3), a name accurately Hbf, the light rail service running Düwag 8GTW 824 (now Grudziądz 84) turns on the Friedrichsplatz circuit on 8 April 2010. The suggesting the setting which has at mainly 20-minute intervals, ten BELOW: 668 with Hüls line was then barred by engineering work. little nearby housing. It is on a a city-bound 044 minutes in commuting peak times, section of the old Willich route service crosses has residential surroundings for much BELOW: Remaining in SWK service into restored to use in 1989, however an barrier-protected of its route and is well patronised. 2017, 1981-built M8C 845 at Hauptbahnhof in extension from here, or one to serve Glindholzstrasse. Services are normally operated April 2010. the main part of Hüls district, now seems unlikely. In June 2013 a short section along Gladbacher Strasse west of Oberschlesienstrasse with one intermediate stop and Tackheide terminus was closed. Awkwardly located between road carriageways, it was judged to be insufficiently used relative to costs. Most infrastructure has now been removed and line 043 was cut back to Hauptbahnhof. At the system’s western limit is by pairs of Düwag Stadtbahn B St Tönis, part of the small city of vehicles which have folding steps for Tönisvorst. On a route initially compatibility between street level and restructured in 1957, the Wilhelmplatz high platforms. For years a feature of terminus is on a long mainly single- the Krefeld line service, Rheinbahn’s onboard ‘bistro’ catering facilities are no longer in use. ESSENTIAL FACTS Despite the Düwag associations, including constituting the SWK fleet Local travel: If Krefeld is area and HansaHaus – slightly tourism. The Zoo is accessible from at the time, the major local employer, part of wider travel plans, the to the left and opposite Krefeld lines 042/043 Grotenburg/Zoo stop, Siemens, was not successful when the SchönerTagTicket NRW (EUR30, Hbf main entrance. Single tickets while a historic beer hall restaurant city sought to modernise. In summer or EUR44 up to five adults) or are EUR1.60 (short distance) and adjoins Gleumes brewery: line DB Schönes Wochenende (from EUR2.70; day tickets are EUR6.80 044 near Friedrichsplatz. Views 2007 an Alstom LHB ST14 of the EUR40) tickets may be appropriate. with reductions for group travel. of the Rhine from Uerdingen Darmstadt system, a Siemens Combino Being in the extensive, but for Onboard validation is required. promenade (walk from Am Röttgen from Erfurt and a Bombardier some bewildering, cross-mode or Uerdingen Bf, line 043). The Flexity Outlook C from Valencia were VRR zoned ticketing system, the What is there to see? A useful ‘Schluff’ preserved steam railway presented at SWK’s depot. The process helpful SWK customer offices may touring centre, well-kept and (May-September) is located 13.6km was a prelude to selecting a type to be needed, also supplying a good with the commercial and cultural (8.5 miles) away between St. Tönis bring low-floor operation to Krefeld, a network map. It can be found at 126 facilities expected of a city of and Hülserberg; details can be process won at tender by Bombardier Hochstrasse in the main shopping the size, Krefeld is not noted for found on www.swk.de in December 2007.

228 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Sacramento

Vic Simons reports on the latest SACRAMENTO extensions and the project to modernise San Jose LRVs for a DEVELOPMENTS new life 200km further north.

hen the City of San José decided to replace its high-floor UTDC (now Bombardier) fleet in the early part of this century, someW of which were delivered as recently as 1998, it was left with a number of surplus vehicles in good condition. In 2003, 21 of these 1998-built cars were purchased by the Sacramento undertaking where they were stored for some years. It was not until 2012 that a contract was signed with Siemens to refurbish the cars. The first LRVs were put into service in September 2015, following a comprehensive modernisation programme that has included overhauling the bogies and body structure and adding modern communications, power and HVAC systems. Each vehicle has cost the Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) around USD1.2m to refurbish compared with a minimum cost of USD4m to buy new. Whilst new cars have a projected 30-year life the refurbished cars are planned to offer at least 15 years of further service. While the renovated cars have a smaller ABOVE: Modernised ex-San Jose stock forming a two-car train at 13th Street on 7 February 2017. capacity than more recent CAF LRVs delivered BELOW: A two-car train on 13th Street, bound BELOW: Spare cars, from both the Siemens and to RT (230 UTDC – 241 CAF), they have more for the new terminus, Consumnes River CAF deliveries, on the storage tracks to the west space than the system’s original Siemens College, on 7 February 2017. of 13th Street in central Sacramento. SD100 (144 total passenegers) fleet. All three types are articulated and bi-directional with trains operating in two-, three-, or four-unit consists depending on service requirements. Spare cars are kept on storage tracks beyond the Blue line’s Watt I-80 terminus, and just west of the 13th Street station at the centre of the network.

Light rail to the airport? Sacramento’s 69km (43-mile) LRT system consists of two lines, Blue and Gold, with a short spur known as the that will be incorporated into a new phased route to Sacramento International Airport when funding becomes available. Although Consumnes River College in late 2015. Will the Streetcar plans survive? all local stakeholders remain committed The double-track extension runs in the The other significant ongoing project is to this project, what impact the Trump highway median and features two major the Sacramento Streetcar; designed to link Administration’s so-called ‘skinny budget’ viaducts to avoid traffic conflicts; there is the city proper with West Sacramento. It is (TAUT 953 and News) has remains to be seen. also a large emphasis on park-and-ride as sponsored by the Sacramento Area Council of Remember that funding constraints almost 2759 car park spaces have been created by Governments (SACOG). led to the suspension of the Green line in means of open air car parks next to stations In August 2016 SACOG announced that 2016, but cost-cutting measures within RT and a parking garage across the street from USD30m in funding had been agreed by the have allowed service to been retained – albeit the new terminus. California State Transportation Agency. In reduced and with a single-car shuttle. The take-up of these facilities was evident addition, the previous Obama Administration The Gold line operates from Sacramento in our February 2017 visit as the terminus car committed USD75m in its 2017 budget Valley station, with its interchange with park was full, resulting in a ‘one-out, one-in’ although it remains to be seen if this will be Amtrak and the Capital Corridor service to policy. When riding the extension, it was honoured by the new federal government. Oakland (for San Francisco) and San Jose, noted that the other new facility at Franklin The proposed 5.3km (3.3-mile) double- and Folsom to the north-east of the city. was also almost full. Bus services have been track loop will feature 19 stations and run The last four stations beyond Sunrise are recast to connect with or feed into the new wholly on-street, crossing the Sacramento single-track, restricting headways to USD270m extension with a major bus station River into West Sacramento by means of 30 minutes in that section. outside the new terminus. the Tower Bridge. It is estimated that six The Blue line was the original route There are storage tracks beyond the streetcars will be needed for the service. from Watt I-80 to downtown Sacramento. terminus where spare cars are kept available Designed to link many of the attractions in This was subsequently extended to to enhance capacity when needed. A fourth both cities as well Sacramento Valley station, Meadowview in 2003 and a further 6.9km infill station at Morrison Creek, south of construction is planned to begin next year (4.3 miles), with three new stations, to Meadowview, is planned. for a 2020 opening.

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ALGERIA ANNABA. The two-line tramway project that has been delayed since 2015 due to a lack of central government funding is under consideration for revival as a Public-Private Partnership. It is understood that Korean interests led by Daewoo are interested in providing finance. The city of 400 000 is the site of a 46 000m2 facility that builds Citadis trams for the North African market by the CITAL joint venture of Alstom, Entreprise du métro d’Alger and Ferrovial. A. Senut, El Watan CONSTANTINE. A f urther 14 Alstom Citadis are being delivered for the 10.5km (6.5-mile) extension from Zouaghi to Ali Mendjeli. A. Senut SÉTIF. The first AlstomCitadis for the new tramway was delivered in April and is undergoing trials on 1.5km (0.9 miles) of completed line. Passenger service should start When Dresden’s first Tatra trams arrived 50 years ago they were painted red and cream with ‘winged’ logos. Low-floor tram 2625 has been repainted in that livery. Nahverkehr-Dresden in the first quarter of 2018. A. Senut SIDI BEL ABBÈS. The opening by 2019. The six trams in question Carnotstraat from 18 April, 24 HAMILTON. A crucial vote date for the new tramway has are understood to be a run-on PCC cars have been equipped on 26 April kept the CAD1bn been fixed for 5 July, Algerian from an order for 12 trams being with new destination blinds to (EUR669.3m) tramway project Independence Day. A. Senut built for Sydney. match changes to the network: on track, with the decision to Downer EDI is building the 2, Hoboken – P+R Merksem (light submit an updated environmental AUSTRALIA 2.6km (1.6-mile) link between green); 3, P+R Zwijndrecht/P+R assessment to the Province. BROADBEACH – SOUTHPORT. Wickham and Pacific Park, Melsele – P+R Merksem (yellow); The provincial government had Tram 10 has been given a special replacing a former rail line into 4, Hoboken – Silsburg (light blue); earlier reversed its decision to Borobi Tram livery (Borobi the city centre; operations and 5, Wijnegem – Silsburg (brown); cut back the line from Eastgate is a blue koala) to mark the maintenance will be carried out by 6, P+R Olympiade – P+R Luchtbal Square to Queenston 12-month countdown to the a Keolis-Downer EDI joint venture (pink); 7, Mortsel – St Pietersvliet/ roundabout. D. Drum 2018 Commonwealth Games, under a ten-year combined bus, Eilandje/P+R Luchtbal (dark OTTAWA. It now seems which will be held on the Gold ferry and tram contract worth blue); 8, P+R Wommelgem – unlikely that the early May Coast. Railway Herald AUD450m (EUR308m). Astrid/Zuidstation/Bolivarplaats 2018 inauguration date for the MELBOURNE. In order to PERTH. Aubin Grove station on (black on purple); 9, Eksterlaar light rail line is to be met, facilitate metro construction, the Mandurah commuter rail line – P+R Linkeroever (orange); with summer 2018 more likely. three tram routes were changed was opened on 23 April. 10, Wijnegem – Melkmarkt/ D. Drum from 1 May. Routes 8 and 55 urbanrail.net P+R Schoonselhof (green); 11, TORONTO. From 7 May were abolished and replaced by Berchem Station – Melkmarkt Downsview subway station route 58 running from Essendon ARGENTINA (brown on white); 12, Sportpaleis was renamed Sheppard West, and Malvern depots. Route 8 BUENOS AIRES. Alstom has – Bolivarplaats/Melkmarkt (red); in readiness for the extension of had been a continuous feature been awarded a EUR17m contract 15, Boechout – P+R Linkeroever line 1. D. Drum of the Melbourne tramway since to renew the power supply for (black on white); 24, Silsburg – WATERLOO – KITCHENER. 1929. Route 6 was extended from metro line B. The 10km (6.2-mile) Melkmarkt (peppermint green). The first Bombardier LRV for Melbourne University to Moreland. line dates from 1930 but needs a There is also an alternative 24 the ION light rail project was The loss of capacity on route capacity increase to cope with (Silsburg – P+R Schoonselhof) unveiled to the public on 8 April. 8 between Domain Interchange passenger growth. which is coloured white D. Drum and University is offset by on purple. T-2000 increased use of higher capacity AUSTRIA BRUXELLES/BRUSSEL. CHINA trams on the Swanston St lines. WIEN (Vienna). With 16 of Construction of the third metro SHANGHAI. CRRC Nanjing Route 78 from Balaclava to North the 69 remaining E1 articulated depot, at Erasme, started on Puzhen has been given a Richmond was transferred from trams due to lose their operating 20 March. T-2000 CNY543m (EUR72.3m) order for Glenhuntly to Kew depot, a licence during 2017, and delivery GENT. The first of the new additional metro cars to boost change that saw the end of of B1 ULF coming to an end batch of Flexity 2 trams (6361- the capacity of line 2 by the end the Z3 trams on route 78. (796-799), plus the arrival of the 76) entered service on 1 March. of 2018. IRJ New routes are therefore: first Flexity not due until 2019, PCC 46 has been transferred SUZHOU. The city’s third metro 6, Moreland – Swanston St – Glen it will be necessary to give the to the old Merelbeke depot, line (4) from Longdaobang to Iris; 58, West Coburg – William oldest trams a light overhaul to which is being used as a transport Tongli (42km/26 miles) opened St – Toorak; while routes 8 and renew their operating permits for museum store. T-2000 on 15 April. A 10.8km (6.7-mile) 55 are withdrawn. P. Nicholson a further period; c4 trailers will branch from Hongzhuang to NEWCASTLE. Transport for be dealt with similarly. EB CANADA Muli will eventually become part NSW has chosen catenary-free CALGARY. With 19 of the of line 7. Service is provided by operation for the new tramway, BELGIUM latest batch of 60 Siemens cars 40 six-car trains supplied by with the CAF onboard energy- ANTWERPEN. With the new delivered, four-car LRV sets CRRC Nanjing Puzhen. urbanrail.net storage system to be used on the six line 8 using the tram subway started running on the Blue line WENZHOU. CRRC Qingdao 33m Urbos cars due to be delivered under Turnhoutsebaan and from 1 May. CBC Sifang has delivered the first of

230 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org 32 four-car EMUs for commuter MPK undertaking will buy all 35 rail service planned to start on withdrawn cars of this type. DS a 53.5km (33.2-mile) line in BONN. Stadtwerke Bonn is 2018. The EMU is based on the proposing to purchase 24 Type A metro train design, but low-floor trams from 2020 to has a maximum speed of replace its existing fleet of Duewag 140km/h (87mph). RGI cars dating from 1994, which are suffering from rust damage. DS FINLAND BREMEN. 125 years of HELSINKI. On 24 April HKL tramway operation were marked announced the prequalification on 30 April by the operation of of three bidding consortia to museum trams 134, 811+1806, design and build the 25km 917, 701 and 446+1458. Historic (15.5-mile) Raide-Jokeri light tram 49 and works car AT5 were rail line between the capital and displayed at Horner Mühle. DS the neighbouring city of Espoo. GOTHA. Due to infrastructure The 33-stop line will closely work in Friedrichstrasse until follow the route of line 550, the end of October, a tramway Helsinki’s busiest bus line. shuttle service is operating HKL says it expects to finalise between Hbf and Huttenstrasse a contract with the winning as lines 1 and 4 are diverted The latest batch of Škoda 15T ForCity Alfa low-floor trams is being delivered to bidder by the end of October. to terminate at Ostbahnhof (and Riga in Latvia. riga.lv The EUR275m budget for the line 2 is withdrawn). be operated by a new fleet of basis for the two extensions line excludes rolling stock; a HANNOVER. The last day of 18 trains and Sepolia depot will planned for the existing contract for 29 double-ended 34m operation of the short section be expanded. A new control tramline. Haretz Artic low-floor trams was signed of street track between centre will be built, incorporating TEL AVIV. On 15 May tenders with Škoda Transportation’s Aegidientorplatz and Hbf will those for the city’s existing metro were issued for the signalling Finnish subsidiary Transtech be 25 May, with museum trams and light rail lines. IRJ system for the light rail . in November 2016. The first used on line 10. OR A further tender for civil works prototype is due for delivery in KARLSRUHE. The ground- INDONESIA involved with electrification will summer 2019. IRJ breaking ceremony for the JAKARTA. On 27 April MRT be issued later this year. Globes second stage of the Kombilösung Jakarta signed a Memorandum FRANCE tram/road subway scheme took of Understanding with Hong CLERMONT-FERRAND. There place on 21 April. A road Kong’s MTR Academy to support . Metro line 1 was will be no service on rubber- tunnel and 1.6km (one-mile) of the development of the city’s extended from Namazi to tyred tramline A from 3 July to surface tramway will be built by first 15.7km (9.8-mile) metro line Zandiyeh on 20 April (intermediate 27 August to permit resurfacing in December 2021. DS with operational, maintenance stations will open later). urbanrail.net order to eliminate rutting. T-2000 KÖLN (Cologne). The 12th and resourcing experience. TEHRAN. A CR RC/Tehran INDUSTRY. A l s t o m a n d rebuilt Stadtbahn-B car to enter A local railway academy will also Wagon Manufacturing joint Airbus have signed a strategic service was 2403 (ex-2103). DS be established. venture has won a EUR93m co-operation agreement in the MÜNCHEN (Munich). On Due to open in 2019, the order to supply 70 metro cars for field of cyber security, which will 5 April work began on the 11km north-south line is envisaged as delivery from 2020. RGI create a new risk management (6.8-mile) EUR3.8bn second city the first phase of a larger network model for the evolution of crossing S-Bahn line between for the capital. IRJ KAZAKHSTAN Alstom’s transport interests. Laim and Leuchtenbergring, PAVLODAR. An order for 25 INDUSTRY. On 28 April Thales with completion expected in ISLE OF MAN new trams has been placed with announced it had secured an 2025-26. The 7km (4.3-mile) DOUGLAS. Douglas Bay Horse Belkommunmash of Minsk, agreement to acquire Big Data tunnel under the city centre Tram services began on 8 April. Belarus, partly financed by the analytics company Guavus in will be deeper than the existing No new tram depot has yet been European Bank for Reconstruction a deal worth up to USD215m. U-Bahn tunnels. DS constructed following the recent and Development. RGI Headquartered in San Mateo, NAUMBURG. The heritage granting of planning permission California (US), Guavus has tramway’s tracks are to be and the trams are being operated LATVIA offices in Montréal, Canada, and extended by 80m to the former from the Strathallan terminus. RIGA. Škoda has started the Gurgaon, India. terminus across the street Tram 36 has been returned from delivery of 15 three-section and Thales says the deal opens up from Hbf. The EUR290 000 off-site restoration and was five four-section15T ForCity Alfa opportunities in fields such as project should open in 2018. delivered to the Manx Electric 100% low-floor air-conditioned predictive maintenance, cyber Railway depot at Derby Castle trams; it was hoped to put the first security, infrastructure monitoring GREECE where finishing works are being into service on 4 May. riga.lv and network optimisation. ATHENS. Attiko Metro published undertaken with a view to the NANCY. Studies are in progress an Invitation to Tender to build vehicle re-entering service later in MOROCCO to see if the 12.5% gradient of and equip the initial phase of the the season. CASABLANCA. With work on La Monteé de Brabois on the TVR city’s fourth metro line on 10 April. The Friends of Douglas Bay Horse tramline 2 in progress, SDL is line can be replaced by a tram The 13km (eight-mile) first Tramway group is suggesting this launching a tender for studies route with a maximum gradient section will link Alsos Veikou with will be the last year of operation for possible lines 3, 4 and 5, of 8.5%. A. Senut Goudi, serving 14 new stations on double-track on-street with the aim of achieving ST-ÉTIENNE. The fleet of 16 and including interchanges with formation with reconstruction 110km (68 miles) of tramway in new CAF-built 33m 100% low- existing lines at Panepistimio/ of the Promenade likely to take operation by 2022. A. Senut floor double-ended trams was Akademia and Evangelismos. place in 2018. However, previously RABAT-SALÉ. Plans have been launched into passenger service Stations will have platforms up to dates for this reconstruction confirmed for 29km (18 miles) on 3 May. IRJ 110m-long and be equipped with have not been met. of tramway extensions by 2022, platform screen doors. including 14.3km (8.9 miles) GERMANY The project includes a 10km ISRAEL in Rabat and 9.6km (six miles) BOCHUM-GELSENKIRCHEN. (6.2-mile) double-track tunnel JERUSALEM. A deal has been in Salé. A. Senut Stadtbahn-M tram 441 was sent to and an 840m-long single-track reached between the finance TÉMARA. It is understood that Łódź in Poland on 10 March, and tunnel connecting the new line ministry and franchise holder/ this town will be served by 5km subject to satisfactory trials the with lines 2 and 3. Services will operator CityPass on a financial (3.1 miles) of new tramway. A. Senut

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Passengers eager to board one of the first trains on new metro line 3 in Bilbao, There have been many attempts by systems in the former Soviet Union to give Spain. Otxarkoaga their Tatra trams a new life. The latest is at Kharkiv in Ukraine. R. Pienc

NETHERLANDS horses for the first time, from 13.4km (8.3-mile) light rail line on April 15; a further 1.5km AMSTERDAM. A new turnback Apakov depot to Metro Chistye received its construction permit (0.9-mile) southern extension siding has been installed at Prudy and back. from the federal authorities with four stops that runs from Strawinskylaan, to be used in Kaluzhskaya tram terminus has on 10 April. The CHF715m Kinoteatr Dovzhenka to Vul 2019-25 by the replacement reverted to its original designation (EUR660m) project will open in Akademika Vernadskoho. Served for current line 51 during the of Oktyabr’skaya Ploschad. two stages, in 2019 as an extension by routes 2 and 8, each running tunnelling work on highway A10 VDNKh (the all-Russian of VBZ line 2 to Schlieren- at headways of four to eight that will close the existing tram Exhibition of Economic Geissweid, with completion in minutes, the extension adds to subway to Parnussusweg. OR Achievements) has rejected late 2022. the first 2.2km (1.4-mile) line that DEN HAAG. With the proposals to move the unsuccessful was inaugurated in November introduction of Siemens Avenio monorail from public streets to TAIWAN 2016. RGI trams on line 15 from 3 April, the an internal loop. N. Semyonov KAOHSIUNG. Testing on the new route via Lange Vijverberg second phase of the circular UNITED KINGDOM and Tournooiveld was brought SOUTH KOREA light rail project is due to start in EDINBURGH. Customer into use. Lines 15, 16 and 17 now BUSAN. The southern extension September 2018, covering 13.4km service has been ranked highly run as follows: 15, Spui – Hofweg of metro line 1 from Sinpyeong to (8.3 miles). Alstom is supplying by Edinburgh Tram passengers – Tournooiveld – Centraal Station Dadaepo Beach (8km/five miles) the rolling stock, with the following a survey undertaken – Kalvermarkt – Sui; 16, Spui– was opened on 20 April. J IR first Citadis due for delivery in earlier this year. The Institute of Kalvermarkt – Centraal Station August 2018. E. B. Havens Customer Service (ICS) awarded – Tournooiveld – Gravenstraat; SPAIN the organisation a score of 85.8 17, Lekstraat – Centraal Station BILBAO. Metro line 3 (Matiko TUNISIA – more than 11 points above – Tournooiveld – Hofweg – – Kukulaga), which opened on SFAX. Plans are being drawn up the transport industry average. Rondje Stadhuis. 8 April, is now being operated for a new tramway with finance Around 30% of respondents The new season of tourist tram by 12 three-car CAF-built Class from the European Investment making feedback comments operation with PCC cars started 950 trains. There is interchange Bank. Expressions of interest wanted the line to be extended. on 8 April. digitaletram.nl with lines 1 and 2 at Casco Viejo. are being assessed, and a tender Trams had their busiest day in ROTTERDAM. Bombardier IRJ for 20 new trams will be launched February when 28 043 passengers is delivering LRVs 5717-22 for MADRID. The Comunidad in 2018. A. Senut were carried on the Saturday of metro service on the former de Madrid has announced it the Six Nations Rugby match. rail line to Hoek van Holland. is to invest EUR60.6m in the TURKEY This was about double usual The six-car Flexity Swift order is modernisation of 23 stations on KONYA. The municipality is Saturday loadings. financed by a EUR120m loan the city’s metro network by 2021. finalising plans for a two-line In the local and national agreement with the European The stations, spread across eight of metro to serve areas not currently election period in May and June, Investment Bank signed in late the system’s 13 lines and serving a accessible by the city’s tramline. the Scottish National Party 2016 to also renew signalling combined 280m passengers/year, To be built in three stages, the indicated in its manifesto that it and safety systems on the will receive upgraded facilities network would connect the city’s would only support extension of metro network. OR and security systems, paying main universities and hospitals the tram line down Leith Walk particular attention to finishes, and the future high-speed rail to Newhaven with an assurance PANAMA flooring and lighting. station on Demiryolu Cd. the project will be properly PANAMA CITY. Alstom has At ten stations the work will be The first phase covers a 12.2km managed, disruption will be kept started delivery of 70 new metro undertaken alongside accessibility (7.6-mile) semi-circular route to an absolute minimum and cars to permit the introduction improvements; funded separately, under Fetih Caddesi linking small and independent businesses of five-car trains on line 1, where this EUR145m programme will the high-speed rail station with will be supported throughout patronage is now exceeding see 80 lifts installed at 30 stations. Meram Belediyesi. Interchange the works. 275 000 passengers/day. would be provided at Meram and The business case for the Twenty three-car trains will SWEDEN the high-speed station with a extension is due to be considered become 26 five-car trains. GÖTEBORG (Gothenburg). second line, which would link to by the council in June. The new cars are being built Tram 334, the last of the M31 class Selçuk University via Alaaddin. The Scottish Labour Party has in Barcelona. to be refurbished in Ostrava, The third stage would extend committed itself to completing Czech Republic, returned to line 1 by 8.4km (5.2 miles) to the tram route. RUSSIA service in April, completing the Necmettin Erbakan University in GLASGOW. T he S c ot t i sh MOSKVA. A 16-tram parade was batch 300-340. MfSS the west. RGI National Party has said that, held on 15 April to mark 118 years following gaining control of of electric tramway operation. SWITZERLAND UKRAINE the City Council at the May This year the double-deck replica ZÜRICH – KILLWANGEN- LVIV. The second phase of the elections, it will seek to return horse tram 35 was pulled by four SPREITENBACH. The planned Sykhiv express tram route opened control of the Subway to the

232 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org In addition to the Red and Orange line cars on order from CRRC, an early mock-up of the new Green line LRVs was revealed in April. Designed with a 10% increase in passenger capacity, the new USD118m CAF fleet is due to begin testing in October and are expected to enter service in spring 2018. MBTA/Joe Pesaturo city, rather than continue The first started work on a 5.2m made only a recommendation Midland Metro Alliance hopes operation under Strathclyde diameter tunnel at a depth of relating to its ongoing culture the section will reopen before Partnership for Transport (SPT). 26m in early April, with the change programme and raised Christmas; 1.35km (0.84 miles) Its manifesto also features second expected to follow in May. two learning points: one relating of track between The Royal and expansion to the east and north. The extension, expected to to using the full beam setting Priestfield is to be replaced. To fund expansion of the line, complete in 2020, will be the first on trams and the other on the Progress is being made on the the SNP said it will look at major Tube extension since the importance of effective safety Edgbaston extension with an new ways of raising cash rather Jubilee line in the late 1990s. critical communications. application by the Midland Metro than relying on capital grants London Underground has TYNE & WEAR. Transport Alliance for a Land Acquisition from the Scottish Government. appointed SNC-Lavalin to authority Nexus resumed direct Order to facilitate construction of The Subway is currently undertake design work for the operation of Metro services on the line between Centenary Place undergoing a GBP288m modification of 952 cars on the 1 April. An early move has been and Hagley Road, Edgbaston. (EUR342m) refurbishment Bakerloo, Central and Waterloo & to put more cleaners on board The MMA hopes to have the line including revamped stations, new City lines to improve accessibility trains, initially on the busiest operational by 2021. track and signalling, and, in due for persons with reduced mobility lines operating between South A consultation period is course, new trains from Stadler. and visual impairments. Actual Gosforth and Gateshead, and underway until 9 June on GREATER MANCHESTER. conversion work will be carried Monument and North Shields. GBP3.4bn (EUR4bn) of Metrolink celebrated its 25th out in-house by LUL. Metro stations are also to be transport investment schemes, anniversary on 6 April. Since 1992 Also as part of the project to cleaned more frequently. including tramway extensions it has grown from conversion of extend the life of the units on the China’s CRRC visited the to Edgbaston, Wednesbury and the Bury and Altrincham heavy Central Line, EKE-Electronics has area in April and is understood the airport, contained in the West rail lines to a 97km (60-mile) been awarded a contract to replace to have discussed the proposed Midlands Combined Authority’s network served by 120 trams and the data transmission system. Metro fleet replacement, according 2026 Draft Delivery Plan. carrying 37m passengers a year. The final regular operation of to the Newcastle Chronicle. See www.tfwm.org.uk/events/draft- As part of a number of events to D-stock trains on the District line VOLK’S RAILWAY. The major 2026-delivery-plan-for-transport/ mark the jubilee year, Transport took place in April after operation refurbishment that was expected WEST YORKSHIRE. Transport for Greater Manchester partnered on the line since 1980. to occupy the winter and Minister Andrew Jones has with Manchester’s Bridgewater NOTTINGHAM. T he R a i l allow for a re-opening to the confirmed a GBP173.5m Hall in a music project. Accident Investigation Branch has public in June is currently (EUR205.9m) funding package Tram services were disrupted issued a report into an accident on running behind programme, of transport improvements, over the May Day Bank Holiday 15 August 2016 when a member mainly as a result of problems submitted after the UK weekend due to the construction of the public was struck by a tram in locating and dealing with Government promised that of new substations at Brooklands between David Lane and Basford utilities. This in turn delayed this sum would be transferred and Whitefield park-and- stops, sustaining fatal injuries. demolition and rebuilding from the aborted trolleybus ride sites. The Bury service The person had entered the works at the car sheds and scheme to other improvements was operated only between tramway after alighting from Aquarium station, and in the Combined Authority Piccadilly and Queens Road, a tram at David Lane tram stop construction of the new shed. area. The funding will be with a replacement bus service and was reported to control by a Reconstruction of the cars 4, allocated over a four-year period. between Queens Road and Bury. driver nine minutes before he was 6 and 10 is progressing at the Despite earlier hopes that HYTHE. A proposal has been struck. Drivers approaching the premises of Alan Keef at Ross- tram-train projects could be made to transfer the electric area were alerted but a supervisor, on-Wye, while car 9 is receiving included, the final approved railway along Hythe’s 640m-long due to poor audio reception, attention from VERA volunteers package mainly includes pier to a community group, as subsequently formed the opinion at the railway. Work has also been improvements to suburban such a group could potentially that the person had left the area continuing on track and sleeper railway stations and investment access lottery funding. The Hythe and stopped warning drivers. The replacement at the eastern end in doubling bus patronage in Ferry, which connects the village tram involved was not advised to of the line. The works are being the area by the development of with Southampton across reduce its speed or exercise caution funded largely by a Heritage integrated bus corridors, including Southampton Water, had been in this section. The member of the Lottery Fund grant. segregated lanes and real-time under threat but transfer to public was lying motionless along WEST MIDLANDS. The street- information. operator Blue Funnel Cruises has the track and the driver passed running section from Priestfield to Principal bus operator secured its future. through at normal speed and could St George’s in Wolverhampton is First Group has indicated that it LONDON (UNDERGROUND). not see the person in time to stop to be closed from mid-June to will spend GBP71m (EUR84m) The Northern Line Extension’s the tram before striking him. allow track and highway on 284 new ultra low-emission TBMs have begun their 3.2km In light of action already reconstruction. A replacement buses by 2020 and will work (two-mile) journey to extend the taken by Nottingham Trams bus will run from St George’s in with Leeds City Council and line from Kennington to Battersea. since the accident, the RAIB Wolverhampton city centre. The the Combined Authority to tackle

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 233 Worldwide Review

the issues affecting bus services summer (June-August) in order The Tempe Streetcar is to WEHMINGEN (DE). T he caused by traffic congestion. to build patronage. The regular receive USD50m from the DoT’s Hannover tramway museum fare is USD1. E. B. Havens Capital Investment Grants has received EUR200 000 from USA MILWAUKEE, WI. The first rails programme. E. B. Havens the Land government towards BOSTON, MA. M BTA has for the Streetcar project have been For a detailed report on Valley the construction of a new depot received Federal Transit laid on St Paul Avenue. E. B. Havens Metro light rail, see TAUT 952. and workshop building. DS Administration approval for its NEWARK, NJ (PATH). The Port SEATTLE, WA. Sound Transit planned Lechmere – Somerville/ Authority Board has authorised has signed a ten-year agreement CONTRIBUTORS Medford Green light rail line the start of planning for an with Puget Sound Energy that Worldwide items for inclusion extension. The federal agency extension of PATH service from means the light rail system will should be sent to Michael Taplin will provide USD1bn towards the Penn Station to Newark Liberty be operated on 100% renewable at Flat 1, 10 Hope Road, Shanklin, USD2.3bn project. E. B. Havens International Airport. E. B. Havens (wind) energy from 2019. Isle of Wight PO37 6EA, UK. DETROIT, MI. Tr a mw ay OMAHA, NB. The city will seek The agency has also exercised Fax: +44 (0)1983 862810 or sponsors were given their first voter approval for a planned an option for 30 more Siemens e-mail: [email protected] ride along the completed line on tramway project in the November S70 LRVs for delivery by 2024; UK and Ireland items are 27 April, two weeks before the 2018 referendum ballot. this brings the confirmed order welcomed by Home Editor, John official launch of passenger The line, running from TD to 70. IRJ Symons, 17 Whitmore Avenue, service on 12 May. Patronage in Ameritrade Park in downtown Werrington, Stoke-on-Trent, ST9 the first year is expected to along Farnham Street to the VENEZUELA 0LW, UK. E-mail [email protected] reach 1.8m with a single fare of University of Nebraska Medical CARACAS. Alstom delivered Acknowledgements are USD1.50. E. B. Havens Center, is projected to cost the last of 22 Metropolis metro due to Canadian Broadcasting DURHAM – CHAPEL HILL, NC. USD156m, and cost USD7.4m trains to line 2 in Los Teques on Corporation (CBC), digitaletram.nl, Orange County (which includes annually to operate and maintain. 19 April. Metro Los Teques is a Drehscheibe Strassenbahn Chapel Hill) has voted 5-2 to E. B. Havens suburban line that feeds into (DS), Edinburgh Evening News, approve a cost-sharing agreement PHOENIX, AZ. The city council Caracas metro line 2, and was Eisenbahn (EB), El Watan, that will enable the light rail has voted to spend USD50m opened in 2006. Global Rail News (GRN), Globes, scheme to move ahead if the accelerating development of the Mike Haddon, Haretz, International FTA approves. E. B. Havens South Central extension from MUSEUM NEWS Rail Journal (IRJ), Manchester KANSAS CITY, MO. The two Central Avenue to Baseline Rd. DENVER, CO (US). Tram 4 Evening News, Op De Rails (OR), additional trams will come from The project cost for the 8km (1911), which has been stored Railway Gazette International CAF (suppliers of the initial fleet) (five-mile) extension, with since withdrawal in 1950, is to (RGI), Railway Herald, riga.lv, at a cost of USD11.8m. Delivery seven new stops, is a projected be restored under an agreement Svenska Spårvägssällskapet (MfSS), will be in 2019. E. B. Havens USD704m. Originally planned between the City of Arvada and Tram 2000 (T-2000), urbanrail.net, LITTLE ROCK, AK. Travel on for a 2034 opening, it is hoped the the Arvada Historical Society. Volk’s News and Wolverhampton the tramway will be free this new line could now open in 2023. E. B. Havens Express & Star.

PMP Transport Films MEETINGS & EVENTS Check out our website for recent releases and new locations. Still serving electric traction enthusiasts worldwide – The full list of the year’s meetings and meeting places and yes, we are happy to supply those with no internet access. can also be found at www.lrta.org 1763. Berlin. Germany. Trams. 1997. Strausberg and Berlin 1207. Luas Trams, Dublin, Ireland. August 2004. Line B filmed in February, a bitterly cold long weekend, starts in full operation, former rail alignment, some street plus Kopenick back to city centre, new low floors. Line A , driver training, all very friendly. 1766. Essen, Duisburg, Frankfurt, Kassel, Heidelberg, 1867. Sardinia. Italy. Tram, Trolleybus, Bus. September 2009. MAY 2017 Wednesday 7. Liverpool 10.30. Wurzburg. Germany. Tram. 1992. A great tour of German A look at the trolleys of Cagliari plus new single track tram systems, lots of contributions from David Cole. line and in north Sassari single track trams. Visit to the Blackpool Tramway. Tuesday 16. London 19.00. (TLRS ) 1767. Leipzig. Germany. Trams. 1991. Filmed by Dave Cole 1874. Zagreb, Croatia. Tram Bus. August 2000. A retrospective this exhaustive survey captures the last year of Gotha cars look back, 90 minutes running time of the very well Alan Pearce: Pacific North West Saturday 10. Birmingham 14.00. in service amongst this very hectic city. maintained ZET trams with depot visit included. 2016 (pt 2) . General modelling meeting. (TLRS) 1769. Germany. Trams. 1991. Former DDR tramways by 1875. Osijek, Zagreb. Croatia. August 2000. Another look Tuesday 16. Barnstaple 11.00. Visit Monday 12. Thames Valley 19.30. David Cole, Erfurt, Halle, Jena, Gera, Plauen, Zwickau, back at the Balkans, end of Zagreb film then seldom visited to Nigel Jackson-Stevens' garden Anne Watkins: South Wales very nice film transition period for stock. Osijek emerges from war time bombing. tramway. For details contact Mark tramways part 2 (other than Cardiff 1770. Germany DDR. Tram. 1987. Trams of East Germany 1876. Sarajevo. Bosnia. August 2000. Tram, Bus. This film Blackstone 0117 962 3288. (TLRS) and Swansea) and the Len Hodges filmed by Richard Lomas on a tour, some super vintage stock, concentrates on the trams, life gets back to normal after Saturday 20. Beeston 14.00. Trophy Model competition. (TLRS) 15 systems covered, best is Karl Marx Sdt. the long siege of the city, includes cab rides. TLRS National AGM at Priory Wednesday 14. 19.40. 1778 Baku and Sumgait. Azerbaijan. Tram, Trolley, Bus. 1878. Trieste. Italy. Tram. Bus. August 2000. Perhaps visited Rooms, Friends Meeting House, Martin Eady: Hold on tight: London September 1999. Amazing scenes at these little visited less frequently as distant from other Italian systems, the locations for dying breeds of electric traction. tram with amazing rack sections, a few buses. 40 Bull Street, Birmingham B4 6AF transport – the past 100 years. (TLRS) 1780. Tblisi and Gori, Georgia. Tram. Trolleybus. Bus. 1881. Barcelona. Spain. Tram. Funicular. Bus. Metro. (next to Midland Metro Bull Street Saturday 17. Taunton 14.00 September 1999. Another less visited country with super April 1994. A trip around Barcelona in the company of local stop). (TLRS) Meeting cancelled. (TLRS) friendly undertakings in various stages of decline. expert Albert Gonzalez Masip, rare metro depot shots. Thursday 25. Manchester 19.00. Monday 19. Wickham 19.30. Travel the world of trams, you can even travel back in time with the PMP archive. Brian Yates: Porto, Alicante Martin Petch: East German trams and Bremen. & narrow-gauge railways. (TLRS) Hundreds of titles always available – please visit our website and follow our blog. Saturday 27. Garstang 14.00. Tuesday 20 London 19.00. A SELECTION OF FILMS FROM OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE, SENT POST FREE WORLDWIDE. Model tram makers' workshop. John Parkin: Blackpool trams DVDs £15 EACH, TWO OR MORE £12 EACH. CREDIT CARDS WELCOME. (TLRS) Saturday 24. Beeston 14.00. Modelling. What's on your PMP, 17 BIRCHWOOD DRIVE, LOWER PEOVER, JUNE 2017 workbench? Joint meeting with the CHESHIRE, WA16 9QJ Model Bus Federation. (TLRS) Tel: 01565 722045 Fax: 01565 722038 Tuesday 6. Southampton 19.30. Tuesday 27. Cardiff 14.00. Note new email: [email protected] Members' slides (digital medium). Alan Wilkins: Polish trams and (LRTA/SEG) other public transport. www.pmpfilms.com

234 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org Letters

MAILBOX Get your views into print Letters should be clearly typed and preferably not handwritten. [email protected] +44 (0)1733 367615 We reserve the right to shorten contributions for publication.

We must learn lessons for UK tram-train to succeed

Your article on the UK tram-train pilot in TAUT 953 answered many of the questions surrounding the scheme and it was good to see an official acknowledgement from some of the project partners of the delays and the frustrations that have led to them. It is encouraging from your illustrative images to see some light at the end of the tunnel for the construction phase of this most drawn-out of schemes that at first glance appeared to be relatively straightforward. It is important to remember that the tram-train pilot has spanned three different governments and fallen under the remit of many different transport ministers – at least eight by my reckoning – so it is surprising in many ways that it has even made it this far when it could have so easily turned into a political football. A lot of the credit in this respect must go to Norman Baker for his championing of the project in its early years when it could so easily have been kicked into the long grass with a less determined minister. That aside, much is made within the article of “future- proofing”. This in my mind forms part of the reason for the delays as one may argue that what is being delivered is not Stagecoach Supertram Citylink 399 203 leaves Meadowhall South/Tinsley just a tram-train scheme but in reality a lot of the preliminary bound for Meadowhall on a driver training run on 26 April. T. Sullivan work for the future 25kv electrification of the Midland Main Line heavy rail line north of Sheffield. signalling and track protection systems and track standards, While the questions of safety assurance are rightly “at the it sounds as though quite a lot of this pilot programme has heart of everything” – the operation has many people to had to developed from scratch to suit the UK. Again, how impress and as such has to be flawless from the inception much of this is directly related to tram-train and how much of passenger service if the mode stands a chance of further is related to other planned rail improvements is unclear. adoption – I still cannot help but feel that many of the pitfalls Let us remember also that the ‘Karlsruhe Model’ took many could have been avoided and that a lot of re-learning of years to develop and refine. Your article on Chemnitz’s basic principles seems to have been undertaken. It would be tram-train development in the previous issue (952) also instructive to know what could have been done differently if illustrates that it took another German city almost a decade the scheme was started in 2017 with the benefit of hindsight. to open its first tram-train service. Lastly, it was interesting to hear the point reiterated that Whether any of the reasons outlined in your article on the the UK is simply not capable of copying the key elements of UK pilot explain the near decade-long development of the continental schemes as has been suggested so many times scheme remains to be seen in the learning outcomes. before on the pages of TAUT. With significant differences in P. Nicolsby, by e-mail

Coping with extreme weather One has to wonder how well the modern Let's not let fear ruin trams’ image When tramway operators in Western Europe low-floor cars seen in European cities would I have noticed more and more tram-related complain of snow and ice blocking the tracks cope with such conditions! stories appearing in the mainstream UK press and disrupting services, I would advise them Contrast this with Scott McIntosh’s – but for all the wrong reasons. to read Mike Russell’s excellent article in the enlightening article on the various Ever since the horrifying accident in latest issue of TAUT. approaches taken to extreme weather around Croydon in November 2016, it seems that In a world seemingly obsessed with the world – it was fascinating to learn, for not a week goes by in the tabloid newspapers technology, how marvellous it was to see how example, that each additional millimetre of without a bad news story relating to tramways are operated in Russia’s extreme rain in the morning peak in Melbourne can tramways. Collisions in some far-flung climates through ingenuity, experience and increase journey times by eight seconds – and country, hate attacks during rush hour, minor well-organised manpower. we see the massive challenges that operators disruption and even ticketing fines now His superb photographs of pointwork have in maintaining services to timetable seem to make the headlines. I fear that they clearing with point-irons and shovelling when the weather takes a turn for the worse. are dominating the narrative, as would such snow by hand prove that tramways can Given that extreme weather events appear stories really have made the news a year ago? operate in even the most extreme of to be more prevalent as the seasons shift The latest BBC investigation that reveals conditions. Images of snow cars blasting due to climate change, this ‘new normal’ is first-hand accounts of sleeping tram drivers is the snow off the tracks, with pedestrians going to increasingly have to factor into the not helpful as we try to promote trams as a safe walking alongside the tracks almost oblivious construction and operation of transit systems and reliable mode of transportation that helps as they go about their everyday lives, was in all parts of the world. our towns and cities prosper in the future. really evocative of how important that It makes you wonder if tramway designers are Serious stories of course deserve serious such transport links are to the very life of taking these issues seriously by the disruption coverage, but what are we doing to promote remote towns and cities such as Achinsk, we see to even relatively new systems? more good news stories related to light rail? Novokuznetsk and Nizhniy Tagil. Tomas Machesone, by e-mail Name supplied, by e-mail

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 235 Classic Trams FAREWELL TO GENT’S SAVIOUR As they approach the end of their front-line service career, Mike Russell considers the impact and legacy of Gent’s PCC cars, which indirectly saved the city’s street-running tramway. 1

he caption to the image that graced the bow-collectors. With passengers now boarding cars were all officially withdrawn from cover of Modern Tramway for June 1971 at the front it was necessary to induce 13 March 2016. Late last year it was illustrated a remarkable event: the first passenger flow to encourage rear exit, so the announced that, with the completion of new trams for over 40 years had arrived internal layout featured forward-facing two- environmental works in Kouter in spring in Gent, Belgium. Their appearance and-one fixed seating at the rear, with those 2017 and the reversion to normal routing of Iheralded a remarkable policy volte-face, at the front facing rearwards. The original line 22, coupled with further deliveries of because for almost ten years the urban capacity of 28 seats was later reduced by two Albatros cars, the last renovated PCCs would tramways of one of Belgium’s most historic to expand platform circulation area. be retired at the end of June 2017. cities had been in slow retreat. This may With their greater length and striking seem incredible now, but the threat of total appearance, the PCC cars contrasted with the Passing the baton to Antwerpen abandonment had then seemed all too real. three-axle cars and were an immediate public Attempts to sell the PCC cars have so far been Gent’s tramways in the 1960s were still success. First introduced onto line 4 (St-Pieters unsuccessful, though not all the Gent PCC worked by smartly turned-out but obsolete Station – Koornmarkt – Muidebrug) in July cars will become the victim of the scrapman’s three-axle cars, built around 1930 – many 1971, there was a lengthy transitional period torch. The first of the series, 01, smartly rebuilt from two-axle cars, some of which until 1973. By then their passenger popularity repainted into its original 1971 MIVG livery, originated as battery-propelled vehicles of was evident and another directly attributable has been designated as a museum car since 1898. The local Vicinal lines were closed by policy change followed: tramline 10 was 2004. It is still available for winter de-icing 1959. The city progressively converted its reprieved and a further eight cars ordered. duties along with 25, now also repainted. lighter-trafficked lines to motor-bus operation The three-axle fleet operated in regular service Car 6226 has joined the fleet of Toeristische from 1962 and by 1969 the programme had for the last time on 31 March 1974. Tram des Tijds (TTO) at its De Panne depot; encompassed the trunk east-west line 3 For the last 25 years, visitors to Gent could car 40 is also there as a source of spare parts. (Mariakerke – Gentbrugge). In Gent however, be forgiven for thinking that the city was Car 31 is displayed on private land near the the main railway station (St-Pieters), relocated under perpetual reconstruction. Provision of old Musson station in Luxembourg province. to its present site in 1913, was remote from double-ended cars has been amply justified by Late in 2014, car 42 went to Antwerpen to the commercial hub of the city by sufficient innumerable periods when routes have been serve as a ‘pub tram’. The last of the batch, car distance to induce public transport usage, adjusted on account of routine trackworks 54 of 1974, is currently in store at Weelde. despite concern that buses would be unable to and environmental improvements, as well as All remaining non-renovated PCC vehicles handle traffic volumes satisfactorily. the need to accommodate new low-floor cars. were sent for scrap in February 2017 except for A pre-metro plan devised in the 1960s had Throughout the disruption the PCC cars 46, retained for potential private sale. intended subways for the historic centre, for have continued to serve with ingenuity. Thoughts of transferring several non- which PCC cars were ordered. A last-minute The defeatist concept of motor bus renovated Gent PCCs to Antwerpen to 1975 policy change by the council stopped substitution is unknown in Gent. work truncated services during track construction for fear of destroying the reconstruction or pre-metro works were ancient city centre. With the PCC cars De Lijn and the PCC makeover quickly aborted owing to the unacceptability already in stock, the surface tramway system Under the 1991 changes the erstwhile of their open driving cabs to local staff. was reprieved and as their 46-year era draws Maatschappij voor het Intercommunaal From September 2017 Gent will keep just to a close, it is right to salute the significant Vervoer te Gent (MIVG) municipal company six of the 22 renovated PCCs as a strategic contribution that they have made to the was subsumed into De Lijn, the new Flemish reserve; as these have enclosed cabs, thoughts survival of one of the most delightful of regional public transport operator, and all cars of sending a large number of them to western Europe’s metre-gauge tramways. were repainted white and dark grey. The fleet Antwerpen are now back on the table. was renumbered by the addition of 62xx to The baton of the classic Belgian-built PCC Immediate popularity the MIVG fleet numbers, though not all bogie car thus passes to Antwerpen, where The new PCC bogie cars built by La Brugeoise non-renovated cars carried these externally. large numbers of the single-ended versions – which had already constructed new fleets In 1998 a belated mid-life refurbishment of remain in service. for Antwerpen, Bruxelles, Saint-Étienne and the PCC fleet was approved. Between 1999 and As we survey Gent’s thriving street Marseille – were to be double-ended because 2003, 22 cars (02 to 23) were refurbished by tramway today we should pause to of the requirements of the intended three Adtranz. Work on the first two cars (6202 and remember the classic PCC car which, having pre-metro lines, but were also a necessity in a 6216) was sub-contracted to a factory in Lot, been bought in anticipation of a scheme constricted city, with intermediate reversing near Bruxelles. Their outward appearance was subsequently aborted, indirectly saved the points and several stub terminals. Two lesser greatly changed as bodywork and electrical Gent tramway. The tramway’s survival and routes were to complete the abandonment equipment were renovated. Driving cabs prosperity stems from that enlightened 1975 programme: shuttle line 20 to Melle, which were fully-enclosed and provided with air city council decision to upturn received met route 2 at Gentbrugge Arsenaal, and the conditioning. Four-leaf jack-knife doors were wisdom and instead safeguard the integrity of indirect line 10 linking St-Pieters station and replaced by two-leaf outward-opening types. one of Europe’s most historic city centres. Muidebrug via Rabot. The first non-rebuilt PCCs were withdrawn The trams seem to ‘belong’ to Gent, Thirty cars were ordered initially, later as early as 2005 but their use continued for without which the city would be incomplete, increased by a further 16, in an attractive many years. The arrival of new Bombardier whether passing edifices such as Gravensteen livery of light blue with yellow window Flexity 2 ‘Albatros’ seven-section cars saw (the 12th Century Counts’ Castle) and the surrounds and grey roof. They lacked centre their appearance became increasingly rare towers of Rabot or traversing the sinuous city doors, were one-man-operated (the three-axle from September 2015, and the last recorded centre streets and its numerous canal bridges. cars always carried conductors) and fitted with instance was of car 44 on line 4 on 23 They truly enhance the majesty of pantographs in place of Gent’s traditional November 2015. The final eight serviceable its mediaeval urban townscape.

236 / JUNE 2017 www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org 1. Since late 2014, Gent 42 has found a new lease of life as a pub tram for operation on the Antwerpen system. It was seen at Groenplaats in its new home city on 4 September 2016. Philip Harwood

2. Only a few weeks after beginning its service career, Gent PCC 11 is seen leaving the city centre interchange at Koornmarkt on 21 August 1971 whilst working route 4 (St. Pieters station – Muidebrug). The spelling was in later years modified to Korenmarkt. At this stage advertisement panels were not carried on the side panels.

3. A snow-covered reserved- track section in Begijnhoflaan on 1 February 2003, with cars 29 and 6245 passing whilst working on line 40.

4. A stark contrast in architectural styles with car 4 working a route 10 journey towards Muidebrug on 23 April 1984. The mediaeval towers of 2 Rabot, dating from 1489-92, once guarded the entrance to the city and allowed local inhabitants to levy tolls on vessels passing along the River Lieve.

5. There’s nothing quite like running right up to the railhead when track works dictate temporary operating arrangements. On 7 May 1991, car 24 stands at Ketelpoort preparing to take the crossover at Savaanstraat to commence its circuitous shuttle service 43 to Muide via St-Pieters station. 3 4 6. Car 35 received a special livery in 2004 to mark the electric tramway centenary. It is seen at the start of the parade on 12 September 2004.

7. Two renovated PCC cars, 6212 and 6223, pass at the original Zwijnaarde terminus in Zwijnaardsesteenweg on 8 October 2012.

8. Since 2015, tram service along Kouter and Brabantdam has been totally suspended and cars on reconfigured line 5 6 22 have been reversing on a crossover in Zonnestraat in the city centre. Completion of the works, due in May 2017, will permit the normal service to be reinstated. Car 6218 performs its directional change manoeuvre on 18 March 2017.

7 8 Photography by Mike Russell unless otherwise stated.

www.tautonline.com . www.lrta.org JUNE 2017 / 237 BOOKSHOP Order online from lrta.info/shop – or by post from: LRTA Publications, 31 Ashton Road, Wokingham RG41 1HL Postage & packing – Any UK address: add 10%; All addresses outside UK: add 20%. For Airmail despatch outside Europe: add 30%.

The London Underground UK Light Rail and Tram Museum Guide 2017 Through the camera of Alan A. Jackson Everything you ever wanted to know An atmospheric black & white album about the modern tramways of the of images that bring the Underground UK and Ireland (plus the light rail of the 1950s to 1970s to life. systems in Tyne & Wear and London Published by The London Underground Docklands), with the added bonus of Railway Society as a supplement to heritage operations, static collections its journal Underground News, this and museum lines. The country’s little book is full of interest for 14 cliff lifts are covered too. anyone who likes the Tube. > A5 softback; 120 pages, 108 colour > A5 softback; 100 pages, 244 black & pictures, line diagrams and fleet lists white pictures plus colour cover. for each system. £9.95 plus P&P as shown above. £11.50 plus P&P as shown above.

Slot Machines Les Tramways de Tientsin The history of cable-hauled street tramways Un réseau sous six drapeaux in the British Isles Modern-day Tianjin features a Prolific tramway author David Voice turns rubber-tyred ‘Translohr’ tramline as his attention to the pioneering the successor to an interesting network lines in the UK, setting out the history that served the city’s Austro-Hungarian, of each installation and particularly the Belgian, British, French, German, surviving tramway. Italian, Japanese and Russian concessions from 1870 to 1972. French text. > A4 softback; 134 pages, 125 black & white pictures, colour covers, several > A4 softback; 68 pages, 90+ colour and maps and diagrams. black & white pictures, several maps. £25.00 plus P&P as shown above. £14.50 plus P&P as shown above.

Scottish Transport No. 68 – 2016 Edition A-Z of British Trolleybuses The Annual Magazine of The Scottish Tramway This detailed description of all UK & Transport Society manufacturers and their products during the trolleybus era includes This interesting little book features an comprehensive lists of every eclectic mix of electric and cable tramways, vehicle built and its subsequent coastal shipping, buses and narrow-gauge use, all presented in a helpful railways, plus some personal reminiscences non-technical way. of transport in Scotland. > 280 x 215mm hardback; 224 pages, > A5 softback; 48 pages, 40 colour and 45 colour and 246 black & white 20 black & white pictures and one map. pictures, numerous lists and tables. £6.50 plus P&P as shown above. £40.00 plus P&P as shown above.

75 Ans de Trolleybus à Saint-Etienne 1900-2016 Les Trolleybus français en (1942-2017) France et dans le Monde Though only one route remains of a once Sadly, the author of this magnificent book – extensive network in this industrial city that Georges Muller, a renowned tram and trolleybus also remained loyal to the tram, the modern expert – died last December before it was electric public transport its residents enjoy is published but this is the authoritative work on a model for others to follow. The author the subject. Covering all the French systems, explains the history of the system in readable including overseas territories and exported detail. French text. vehicles. French text. > A5 softback; 96 pages, fully-illustrated in colour and black & > A4 hardback; 365 pages, 850+ pictures in colour and black & white plus maps and an all-time fleetlist. white plus 64 maps and numerous diagrams. £8.00 plus postage & packing as shown above. £47.50 plus postage & packing as shown above.

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FUTURE TRAM BIRMINGHAM'S SYSTEMS FACTFILE: PLANS IN POLAND ‘BIG BANG’ MADRID In the first of a two-part overview, The UK’s Midland Metro is now being Offering several distinct lines rather Witold Urbanowicz offers a detailed run under a new alliancing agreement than a cohesive system, Madrid’s tram analysis of the major expansion as it prepares to deliver an exciting series operations were installed mainly to projects due to be undertaken by of extensions. TAUT talks to Phil Hewitt supplement other parts of the transport Poland's tramways under the latest and Alejandro Moreno about it, and how network. Neil Pulling explores the EU Financing Perspective. expansion will be achieved. Spanish capital. PLUS... JULY + Mike Russell explores the heritage lines in Auckland and Wanganui. ISSUE + The latest news, rolling stock orders and movements, system developments and transport policy and leading industry comment on sale from around the world. 16 June

Krefeld THE INTERNATIONAL LIGHT RAIL MAGAZINE In an area once famed systems for railway manufacture, Krefeld in north-western Germany has a GERMANY modernised tramway factfile Krefeld www.lrta.org that is at the centre of the www.tautonline.com No. Krefeld, region’s public transport. Neil Pulling reports in 116 Germany words and pictures. JUNE 2017 N O. 954 SUBSCRIBE NOW! BLACKPOOL GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Now in its 80th year, Tramways & Urban Transit is the world’s leading

refeld is in Nordrhein- The 1950s and ’60s brought Westfalen (NRW), Bombardier many tramway closures in Germany, centre, much of today’s system about 30km (19 miles) Flexity Outlook C especially around Nordrhein- has suburban surroundings, north-west of the state 670 at Rheinstrasse Westfalen, and by 1969 this included on 4 August 2016. in places bordering countryside. capital, Düsseldorf. the bigger system in nearby Although Krefeld is removed WestK of the River Rhine and distinct Mönchengladbach with which from Germany’s long-distance from the neighbouring Ruhr area, Krefeld once had an interurban tram passenger network, the railway Krefeld’s historic economic staple was monthly publication dedicated solely to light and urban rail developments. link. Following cutbacks including industry is important locally. Rolling textiles, giving rise to the tag ‘city of the outer routes, by the early 1960s stock manufacturer Waggonfabrik silk and velvet’ although it now has a Krefeld’s administration had opted Uerdingen assumed the name of the mixed manufacturing sector. to support a tramway of around 40km absorbed tram-maker Düwag and When horse and steam-powered (25 miles). The composition has upon closure of its Düsseldorf site, tram services began in 1883, Krefeld altered, but essentially it remains tram production was concentrated at had almost three decades left with a Sacramento: New lines and new life for San Jose cars on a similar scale. Uerdingen. A supplier to the national former spelling, as used by the early Maintaining faith in the mode, railway, Düwag was perhaps better US Congress rejects transit cutbacks concession, Crefelder Strassenbahn AG. by the end of the 21st Century’s known for vehicles made for many In 1929 the city was combined with first decade the city was renewing urban systems. Within Germany and adjoining Uerdingen which borders Siemens and Bombardier to merge? infrastructure and the fleet. widely seeing second lives elsewhere, the Rhine, with the tramway passing Krefeld’s population, currently about long-lived Düwag stock remains a into municipal ownership by 1931. 233 000, is well distributed around mainstay for many operators. The Krefeld name officially applied Strasbourg opens cross-border link a mainly level and low-rise urban Passing wholly to Siemens for the unified entity from 1940. £4.40 setting. As Krefeld has a compact by 1999, the Siemens Mobility’s 06> Krefeld-Uerdingen site is now the The art of track Saving Gent 224 / june 2017 Challenges of design The impact and 9 771460 832050 www.tautonline.com. www.lrta.org and maintenance legacy of the PCCs

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