Project Profile: Île-de-France Tramway Line 9 (T9)

The Île-de-France Tramway Line 9 (T9) is a 10.3 km light rail transit line enhancing public transport connectivity between Porte de Choisy in Paris and the center of Orly. Engineered to replace the saturated bus route 183, the T9 provides a high-capacity, reliable service to six key municipalities, halving commute times on this critical southern corridor. The project integrates modern rolling stock with sustainable track construction techniques to address regional mobility demands.

Technical Specifications

The T9 line operates with a fleet of 22 Alstom Citadis X05 trams, branded “Lumière” for their distinctive design. Each 45-meter-long vehicle has a capacity of 314 passengers and is engineered for high-efficiency urban transit. Key design features include eight double-doors per side and wider internal gangways, which increase the passenger exchange rate by 20% compared to previous models, minimizing dwell time at its 19 stations. The trams incorporate energy-saving technologies including 100% LED lighting and an optimized HVAC system. The track infrastructure, constructed by Colas Rail, utilizes the “Green Track” technique, integrating vegetation to improve rainwater management and reduce urban heat island effects.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Network Integration: The T9 line establishes crucial interchanges with the RER C line, Metro line 7, and the Trans-Val-de-Marne bus network, with future connections planned for the Grand Paris Express lines.
• Significant Capacity and Service Upgrade: By replacing the high-frequency bus line 183, the T9 tramway increased passenger capacity to 80,000 riders per day and improved service reliability with a peak frequency of 5 minutes.
• Commitment to Sustainable Technology: The project demonstrates a focus on sustainability through the use of energy-efficient Citadis X05 rolling stock and the implementation of green track-laying methods that reduce environmental impact and long-term maintenance costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Paris T9 tram line open?
The Île-de-France Tramway Line 9, or T9, officially opened for public service on April 10, 2021. It now provides a direct and rapid connection between Porte de Choisy in Paris and the town center of Orly.

Who built the T9 tramway in Paris?
The T9 tramway project was managed by Île-de-France Mobilités. The primary contractors included Alstom for supplying the Citadis X05 trams, Colas Rail for the design and construction of the track infrastructure, and Keolis as the operator responsible for running the service.