The remarkable renaissance under way in Yonkers under Mayor Mike Spano got a big boost with the recent announcement by Kawasaki Rail Car, Inc., in Yonkers that it has been awarded a $1.507 billion contract by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to build 378 new rail cars for the New York City subway system.
“Kawasaki Rail has long been a cornerstone of Yonkers’ manufacturing strength and innovation, and this new $1.5 billion contract from New York state and the MTA is a testament to their world-class craftsmanship and commitment to excellence. We are proud that the next generation of New York City subway cars will be built right here in Yonkers — by our talented workforce, supporting good jobs and continuing our city’s proud legacy of industrial leadership,” said Mayor Spano.
The new model R268 subway cars will be similar in design and specifications to the R211 cars that already have been put into service. The contract also covers items in addition to the rail cars such as spare parts, special tools, diagnostic test equipment, technical documentation and training.
“The R268 contract will not only secure employment for hundreds of workers in our Yonkers facility, but also delivers state-of-the-art, high-quality subway cars to NYC riders,” Kawasaki Rail President Yusuke Hirose said. “With this milestone, we will surpass over 4,000 cars produced for New York City Transit and we’re excited to continue building for the city’s future.”
Kawasaki has successfully delivered over 2,900 cars for the New York subway system since receiving its first contract order in 1982 for model R62 subway cars.