US high-speed rail
HORSEHEADS, N.Y. – The United States’ first high-speed rail production facility will reside in New York state, according to a joint announcement by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Brightline West, and Siemens Mobility today (Monday Sept. 9).
The press releases, provided to Trains.com News Wire, states that the new 300,000 sq ft. complex will be constructed in Horseheads at a $60 million investment, and will set the stage for the construction of 10 “American Pioneer 220” trainsets for Brightline West’s high-speed rail project between the Southern California region and Las Vegas. Siemens, in partnership with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), was selected as the “preferred bidder” to build the initial equipment in May [See “Siemens to build high speed trainsets…” News Wire. May 1, 2024].
“After months of relentless advocacy, I am proud to announce this massive 300 job first of its kind manufacturing facility for America is coming to Upstate NY,” said Leader Schumer. “Upstate New York is unmatched in rail car manufacturing capabilities, with a deep proud history pioneering the rail industry and a community that is excited to get to work building America’s future.”
“For the first time ever in the U.S., we will be manufacturing trains that will compete with the best in the world,” said Brightline CEO Michael Reininger.”Reaching speeds of over 200 mph, these trains will be marked by the latest innovations designed for the modern traveler and establishing a new benchmark in transportation.”
“With Leader Schumer, the Biden Administration and Brightline’s leadership we will transform the way Americans travel,” said Siemens Mobility North America CEA Marc Buncher. “Continuing our more than four-decade legacy of building trains in America, the American Pioneer 220s will be American-Made in New York by a team of more than 300 skilled team members.”
“This partnership is more than just a moment. It’s a new chapter for the future of rail transportation, with good union jobs creating lasting economic benefits for generations to come,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Upon completion, production at the new facility is planned to commence beginning in 2026.
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