The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has awarded Stadler a 500 million USD contract to replace its existing signalling system with an advanced Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) solution.
This marks Stadler’s largest signalling project to date and a significant milestone for its international expansion.
This order is the first time that a transport company in the USA has used a Stadler train control system with Stadler trains.
The project involves upgrading MARTA’s entire rail network with the NOVA Pro CBTC system, a state-of-the-art train protection technology designed to enhance operational safety, efficiency and punctuality.
The contract spans eight years, with Stadler overseeing the integration of new trackside equipment and vehicle-based components.
This system will operate alongside existing infrastructure during the transition phase, ensuring uninterrupted train services.
Markus Bernsteiner, Group CEO of Stadler Rail said: “This order is a significant milestone and represents our international market breakthrough in the CBTC sector. MARTA and its passengers can look forward to a state-of-the-art train protection system that will make metro operations more punctual, safer and more efficient. We look forward to working with Metro Atlanta, thank them for their trust and for the fact that they are now relying on our train protection solution in addition to the trains.”
The introduction of Stadler’s CBTC technology will enable more precise train tracking using wireless communication, allowing real-time adjustments to improve service reliability.
Expected benefits include: Enhanced punctuality and safety for passengers
Optimised capacity and reduced operational costs
A robust system ready for future technological advancements, including integration with 5G networks
Stadler’s trackside components will be installed directly within the MARTA network, while the metro vehicles will be equipped with CBTC technology at Stadler’s Salt Lake City facility. Here, 56 new MARTA metro trains ordered in 2019 are also being built.
Lucy Andre, CEO of Stadler Signaling North America said: “Stadler’s CBTC system provides MARTA with a robust, future-proof solution that will meet the growing demand for a safe, efficient and high-performance transit system in Atlanta. As MARTA and Stadler advance this historic project, Atlanta will move closer to the forefront of modern transit solutions and provide the region’s riders with an improved travel experience.”
Railway International
