RTR Technologies Inc. is completing delivery of third-rail heating systems and controls for a major transit rail extension to Dulles International Airport in Northern Virginia.
RTR was awarded a $7.4 million contract in August 2011 to produce 125,000 feet of third-rail heaters and controls for Phase 1 of the new transit line. RTR is also completing work on another $500,000 contract to deliver Phase 1 switch point heaters for the Dulles project, through its contract with the France-based transit company Alstom.
The $6.8 billion, 23-mile Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, also known as the “Silver Line,” is the Washington Metro’s largest mileage expansion since it opened in 1976. Phase 2, the final phase, gets under way in 2013.
Rosalie Berger, president and CEO of RTR Technologies Inc., said, “RTR’s products meet the highest and most stringent industry standards, and we are pleased to operate our manufacturing facilities right here in our home region. We also look forward to the opportunity to participate in Phase 2 of the Silver Line project.”
The Dulles project uses Contact Rail Heat technology, which was created by RTR to prevent the third rail from freezing and accumulating ice in cold-weather. The system ensures intimate contact between the third rail and pick-up shoe of the rail car, preventing costly service interruptions that can strand passengers.
The Silver Line extends the Washington Metro to Tysons Corner — a major Northern Virginia business hub — and to Dulles International Airport. The federally-funded project is intended to reduce heavy highway traffic in the region for commuters, travelers and airport employees. The Silver Line also allows for easier transfers among the region’s airports.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) is managing the Silver Line project. MWAA has contracted for design and construction with Dulles Transit Partners LLC, a partnership between MWAA and Bechtel Corp. (Bechtel Group).
The Silver Line will open in two phases, with completion of 11.6 miles to Vienna, Virginia in 2013 and the final 11.5 miles opening in 2016.
