Built in 1954, passenger coach 403 "Riverside Park" was part of CNR's modernization process to upgrade their aging fleet of passenger cars to cater to increased rail travel popularity. CNR ordered 359 new "streamlined" passenger rail cars, with 218 being coaches like car 403 to accommodate the many short-journey day coach passengers. Coach 403 originally seated 80 but now seats 76 comfortably, with rotatable seats that can arrange groups of four, and still has the first class interior it received when built, though it was reupholstered during VIA Rail's acquisition in 1971.

1. Passenger Coach 403
“RiversidePark”
Built in 1954, the passenger coach 403 "Riverside Park" (ex-CNR/VIA
5590) was part of a modernization process by CNR to upgrade their
fleet of passenger equipment. Rail travel was at the height of
popularity in the 1950’s and CNR was feeling a little outdated. To
counteract this, CNR placed an order for 359 new “streamlined”
passenger rail cars. Coaches were in large demand as many
passengers only travelled in day coaches on short journeys. Of the
359 new rail cars 218 were coaches just like this one!
Passenger coach 403 now seats 76 guests comfortably but at one
time would have sat 80. The seats can be rotated either way and can
be arranged to seat groups of four together. Seats are identified by
numbers above the blind with an A for aisle and W for window along
with a number. All of the seats can recline with a touch of a button
and blinds can be closed with ease. Coach 403 was crowned the
"First Class" title in 1954. When VIA Rail acquired the coach in 1971
the company made many upgrades and completely re-upholstered the
interior of the car. We at KHR are proud to say that 403 still sports
this First Class interior.