Veolia Transport to Continue as Auckland’s Passenger Rail Operator Through the Transition to an Electrified Network

Veolia Transport Auckland Ltd (Veolia Transport) is pleased to announce that the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) has extended the company’s contract to continue as the operator of the Auckland passenger rail network through the transition to an electrified network. This 4-year contract will roll over annually from March 2010 on the expectation that Veolia Transport will work to continually enhance service performance during this period.

ARTA announced on Saturday that it will be calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the supply and maintenance of a fleet of Electric Multiple Units (EMUs).

“We are very proud to be given the opportunity to continue to play a key role in the transition process towards the electrification of the Auckland rail network,” said Arthur Bruce, Managing Director of Veolia Transport Auckland Ltd.

“Veolia Transport has worked hard over the past four years and is proud of the achievements to date in improving the performance of the passenger rail network. Veolia Transport is confident that through working in partnership with ARTA, OnTrack, and KiwiRail, we will be able to maintain the momentum achieved.”

There has been a renaissance in the use of rail over the past four and a half years, and this growth is set to continue with electrification and a new fleet providing a much improved service for Auckland’s passengers in the years ahead.

The positive economic impact of the electrification project will include further growth in the size and capability of the local Veolia team. Veolia Transport has broad international experience in delivering rail electrification projects, and is looking forward to the opportunity to bring this expertise and experience to this key project for the development of the Auckland public transport network.

“Veolia Transport looks forward to playing its part in helping ARTA deliver on its vision for an improved public transport system that contributes to the sustainable and economic development of the Auckland region, and better supports anticipated population growth.”

“We will be working closely with all the parties involved in delivering this key projetl to ensure Veolia Transport provides the best service possible for our customers during this time of transition and change.” said Mr. Bruce.

ENDS

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