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New cars panned
Train interiors look much like current subway
By ROB GRANATSTEIN, CITY HALL BUREAU
The TTC's design for its new subway cars got another bruising reception from commissioners yesterday.
TTC vice-chairman Adam Giambrone looked at the presentation and wanted to know why the interiors were the same as in old cars.
"Why aren't we looking at train design indicative of today?" Giambrone said.
He had hoped to see modern lighting and design in the 232 new trains, expected to debut in 2009.
"It was brought to you before and you rejected half of them," said Rick Ducharme, TTC chief general manager.
The new trains will move from being six separate cars to one long unit in which riders will be able to walk from one end of the train to the other.
It means a sleeker, curved design at the front of the train, but no more forward-looking front window seats.
Project manager Chris Heald said the envelope could be pushed to become more modern. He sees that happening with colours.
The trains need a name and a Name That Train contest will be launched in June.
The public can see and comment on the new train interior starting June 6 at Davisville station. A concept train may move around the system.
Courtesy: Toronto Sun