The Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) expects to launch its A-Train into service on June 20, 2011.
In anticipation of the opening, the agency has begun testing in order to finalise its operating schedule.
DCTA and Stadler Bussnag AG, reached an agreement in May 2009 for the purchase of 11 GTW 2-6 Diesel Multiple Units in a contract worth $73,764,069.
Construction for the A-train project is largely complete with minor work continuing in Denton, Texas at the stations and intersections.
DCTA will optimise its schedule to meet ‘as many Green Line trains at the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Trinity Mills station’ as possible.
Vehicle and equipment testing and crew qualifying is the first phase of operations in preparation for revenue service and began on April 4 in the southern segment between Lewisville and Carrollton.
While DCTA has not finalised its rail schedule and will not do so until run times between stations are tested with trains, the Authority has outlined service parameters and operating hours.
DCTA will operate at a 25 minute frequency during peak periods and 60-80 minute frequencies during the off-peak.
“DCTA has worked hard to develop an initial rail schedule that serves as many potential passengers as possible during the peak commute times while also providing some travel opportunities in the later evenings and on Saturdays,” stated Jim Witt, DCTA CEO.
