The TTC has announced a $2.3 billion single-source contract with Alstom for Line 2 subway cars, aiming to boost Ontario manufacturing and secure reliable trains for Toronto’s growing transit network. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply. The Toronto Transit Commission is pursing a single-source contract with Alstom to construct new subway trains for Line 2. (Michael Wilson/CBC) TTC Single-Source Contract Details The TTC confirmed on Friday that it will proceed with a direct procurement agreement with Alstom to build 70 six-car trains for Line 2. The deal includes options for additional trains if performance targets are met. Don’t miss…DDEMU2 Undergoing Tests and Preparing for European Launch Union leaders welcomed the decision. Justin Roberts, president of Unifor Local 1075, said producing the trains locally improves efficiency, reduces delays, and ensures higher build quality. He stressed that final assembly in Thunder Bay would benefit workers and the local economy. Although the production site has not been finalized, Roberts argued that Thunder Bay’s experience in assembling complete trainsets positions it better than other Alstom facilities. He noted La Pocatière, Quebec, could contribute components but lacks large-scale final build capacity. TTC Investment and Economic Impact The $2.3 billion project will be funded by Toronto, Ontario, and Canada’s federal government. Officials say the single-source process will bypass costly competitive bidding, protect Canadian manufacturing, and shield Ontario from U.S. trade tariffs. Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria confirmed that the trains will be built in Ontario. He framed the deal as part of the province’s $70 billion subway expansion program, the largest in Canadian history. The TTC requires Alstom to meet original technical specifications, maximize Canadian content, and submit pricing for independent market review. These terms aim to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for taxpayers. Mayor Olivia Chow, provincial ministers, and union leaders will address the project in a joint press conference. Negotiations are expected to conclude in the coming months, with an emphasis on securing local manufacturing and ensuring timely delivery. Source: www.cbc.ca
