This photo shows some interesting details for this new order of about 150 or so cars for Metra. First, the windows are four inches taller than the last series of cars, and that's very nice when looking out. You'll also notice a reflective strip under one upper and one lower window. These strips tell emergency crews where the exit windows are located, and they are staggered so that ladders could reach both windows at the same time.

Though it doesn't show in the photo, every one of the cars is equipped with a lift to meet ADA standards.

This photo shows the neat new electronic sign that shows on the central partition in both halves of each Metra car. It will announce station stops (and probably tell riders to keep their shoes off the nice new seats).

When I am traveling abroad, this sort of signage is a life-saver, because I do not need to "listen" for the next bus stop (which I won't understand in German or Dutch or Italian anyway!).

Here is the view inside the cab on the new Metra cars. As you can see, it is quite complex. Heck, I can't even see where they keep the coal for the locomotives!

The Metra people are really very generous in making a visit like this possible. Many thanks!