Alstom lands $718.2 million SEPTA contract. Here's what it means for Hornell's workforce

Chris Potter, The Evening Tribune
·3 min read

Alstom’s new stainless-steel car body shell manufacturing facility on Shawmut Park Drive has secured work through the end of the decade.

Hornell’s largest employer on Friday announced a new contract with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) valued at approximately $718.2 million. Under the agreement, the Hornell workforce will build 130 fully customized low-floor electric streetcars, with an option to build 30 more.

“We are proud to be selected by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to build and supply 130 next-generation LRVs,” Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, said in a press release. “The new Citadis streetcars will bring more efficient accessible and equitable service to the people of Philadelphia’s metropolis, as they will replace the existing SEPTA fleet that dates from the 80’s. We are thrilled with the opportunity to serve over 80,000 daily riders with a more accessible, comfortable, and modern experience.”

Here’s what you need to know.

How will the contract impact the Hornell workforce?

Alstom’s new stainless-steel car body shell manufacturing facility on Shawmut Park Drive in Hornell has secured work through the end of the decade.
Alstom’s new stainless-steel car body shell manufacturing facility on Shawmut Park Drive in Hornell has secured work through the end of the decade.

Alstom said manufacturing of the streetcars will be conducted in Hornell. The company recently invested in a new $50 million, 135,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in the Maple City to handle car shell production, final assembly and renovations. The facility was greenlit in 2021 after Alstom won a contract to build up to 500 commuter rail cars for Chicago's Metra system, creating several hundred jobs. The project positioned Hornell as the largest rolling stock manufacturer in the U.S.

Alstom said the new facility will ensure greater quality control over the entire production process for SEPTA. Building the cars in Hornell also meets the “Buy America” requirements established in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law touted during a recent Hornell visit by Keroullé, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Transportation Under Secretary Carlos Monje Jr.

The advanced propulsion system for the streetcars, meanwhile, will be manufactured at Alstom’s North American center of excellence for advanced propulsion technology research, development and engineering in West Mifflin, Pa.

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What is the timeline for the project?

Alstom's main office building in Hornell.
Alstom's main office building in Hornell.

The project further secures the future of the Hornell workforce beyond the Metra contract and another ongoing contract to build new high speed Acela cars for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. Last year, Alstom officials said the total workforce at the new plant could grow to around 300 in the next five years as the company lands additional projects.

Delivery of the SEPTA streetcars is slated to start in 2027, and conclude by the end of 2030. The streetcars have a lifespan of 30 years.

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What type of cars will Hornell produce for SEPTA?

Alstom will produce Citadis light rail vehicles for SEPTA, tailored for the streets of Philadelphia. The company said the cars reduce energy use by 20% and feature LED lights and sensor-based air-conditioning. Citadis streetcars offer state-of-the-art traction technology and are 99% recyclable when replaced.

Inside, the cars have full low floors with wider aisles to aid passenger movement and accessibility. The cars also have designated spaces for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers and bicycles, with flexible interiors will accommodate larger items. Ramps at all doors facilitate disabled access, the company said, while audio and visual messaging systems keep passengers informed about upcoming stops and service changes.

Where will the cars operate?

SEPTA services seven trolley lines that cover 68 miles. Its cars connect communities in west, southwest and north Philadelphia, plus Delaware County, to the greater region.

Alstom’s Citadis light rail vehicles will replace trolleys that have been in service since the early 1980s.

This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Hornell Alstom will build 130 streetcars for SEPTA