CHSRA issues RFQ for early train operator

On Dec. 16, the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for early train operator services to assist with the development and management of the initial operations of the high-speed rail system.

CAHSRA says “early engagement of a train operator is a critical step that moves the program beyond planning, design and construction towards a commercial operations phase. Strategically partnering with the private sector operator will help assure the high-speed rail system is designed to enhance ultimate commercial value and profitability.”

The 2016 Business Plan called for the engagement of an early train operator to ensure that their perspective is considered in the planning and design of the civil works, infrastructure, high-speed trains (rolling stock), and facilities. CHSRA says “bringing on an early train operator during the current development phase of the high-speed rail program will allow them to advise the Authority on strategies to build future enterprise value by improving asset performance and revenues, while managing and reducing program costs. The early train operator will also make sure that operational considerations are taken into account during the planning, design and construction phases, ensuring the Authority is planning the system in a way that will increase its attractiveness to riders while also reducing operating and maintenance costs.”

This RFQ is the first part of a two-part procurement process, with a Request for Proposals to be released to qualified offerors in spring 2017 with the goal of having the Early Train Operator on board this summer. CAHSRA says the contract will be performance-based contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $30 million dollars for the first phase of the contract.

The CHSRA also issued its first Sustainability Report, which it said “describes the innovative approach it is taking to the design, construction and operations of California’s high-speed rail system. Not only will high-speed rail help Californians move across our state efficiently, but it will help tackle climate change, protect the environment and enhance our quality of life. As more people shift from driving and flying to traveling by high-speed rail, the system will contribute substantially to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the state.”

CHSRA claims that over time, the average annual greenhouse gas emissions reduction for the system running from San Francisco/Merced through the Central Valley and to Los Angeles/Anaheim is projected to be equivalent to annually removing 285,000 passenger vehicles from the roads. CARB (California Air Resources Board) CEO Richard Corey says this report shows how the state “has embedded the concept of sustainability into every element of the high-speed rail project.”

The sustainability report (downloadable from the link below) highlights the Authority’s objectives, plans and progress on a range of fronts including energy, natural resources, infrastructure, station communities and business management. It describes the Authority’s “commitment to recycling 100% of the steel and concrete used during construction and divert at least 75% of all waste from landfills. Major steps are also being taken to reinforce a clean energy economy and to use recycled materials wherever possible to reduce the demand for virgin materials. Safeguarding public and customer health—and protecting and restoring natural habitat and wildlife corridors—are also key priorities” <p< The Sustainability Report also details how the Authority is working with its construction contractors to reduce greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions generated during construction: “In 2015 alone, more than 12,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions were avoided by recycling 99%of construction materials. Contractors continue to dramatically reduce air pollutants released during construction by using some of the most environmentally friendly construction equipment available.”

“High-speed rail construction in the Central Valley is also having a positive impact on small businesses in disadvantaged communities working to meet the program’s sustainability goals,” CHSRA said.