North Carolina eVP #269-2026-2049

Charlotte CATS LYNX Blue Line Automated Rail Geometry Testing Services Solicitation

The City of Charlotte, through its Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), is seeking a vendor to provide automated Rail Geometry Testing services for the LYNX Blue Line rail infrastructure. - Government Buyer: - City of Charlotte, Department of Contracting and Procurement, Transit Procurement Officer - Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) - Scope of Services: - Annual automated track geometry testing for approximately 40 miles of LYNX Blue Line rail, including mainline, storage, yard tracks, crossings, and interlockings - Use of a hi-rail capable Track Geometry Vehicle (TGV) equipped with advanced sensors and data management systems - Measurement of key parameters: runoff, profile, cross level, superelevation, curvature, alignment, gauge, rail profiles, warp/twist - Optional capabilities: video recording and clearance measurement - Real-time data analysis, defect identification, severity classification, and comprehensive reporting (nightly and final electronic reports) - Requirements: - Testing must occur during non-revenue hours (typically 1:30 AM to 4:00 AM) - Compliance with latest American Public Transportation Association (APTA) track safety standards - Vendor personnel must obtain Roadway Worker Protection Program (RWPP) certification from CATS Rail Safety - Hi-rail testing capability is mandatory - Contract Structure: - Initial term of three years, with two optional one-year renewals (up to five years total) - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in the solicitation; the opportunity is open to qualified providers of automated rail geometry testing solutions.

Description

The City of Charlotte is soliciting proposals for Rail Geometry Testing to support the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) in maintaining safe and reliable track conditions on the LYNX Blue Line rail infrastructure. The project involves developing a comprehensive automated track inspection program to identify, assess, and mitigate track geometry defects in accordance with industry standards and internal maintenance protocols. Testing will be conducted during non-revenue hours and will include measuring various track geometry parameters using an automated Track Geometry Vehicle. The program aims to provide accurate track condition data to support maintenance and capital planning while ensuring passenger safety and regulatory compliance.

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