TTC unveils new subway trains

TTC unveils new subway trains. The new Toronto Subway cars have open gangways allowing riders to walk freely from one end of the train to the other. Staff photo/DAN PEARCE

"It used to be only certain cars were accessible," he said. "Now anywhere, the seats are in an upwards position so we don't have to move them. I'm happy they listened and worked with us."

Aribi was one of several TTC Advisory Committee on Accessible Transportation members on hand to unveil the new Toronto Rocket at Downsview station Thursday, Oct. 14.

The overall cost for the 78 cars is $236.7 million and will be shared by all three levels of government. The cars represent a portion of the 234 new subway cars being supplied to the City of Toronto and the TTC between 2010 and 2014. The first Toronto Rocket is expected for operation next year.

The new trains can accommodate an eight to 10 per cent increase in ridership, has larger doors for better wheelchair access, cameras and a lit map to tell riders where they are on the route. Poles found in the middle of the old trains have been removed and replaced by handles. The front of the train acts as an emergency exit door and can be opened to access a ramp.

And perhaps the biggest change comes in the form of one long continuous train - a gangway - and getting rid of the individual car style.

"I take the subway everyday and for many years it wasn't accessible," said Aribi, who has polio and is confined to a wheelchair. "It's important for the general public to know our needs and to accommodate us. With the new cars it's sending a loud message the TTC is accommodating all people."

With the contract to construct the subway cars awarded to Bombardier Inc. in Thunder Bay, Mayor David Miller noted thousands of new jobs will be created in the northern Ontario city.

"It's important to keep (construction) on Canadian soil for Canadian jobs," he said.