B2727529_CSX Gates at Schuylkill River Trail Justification .docx

This is a justification memorandum from the City of Philadelphia Streets Department to the Procurement Commissioner regarding a maintenance contract for CSX pedestrian crossing gates at the Schuylkill River Trail. The contract pertains to the maintenance and operational oversight of two at-grade railroad crossing safety gates located at Race Street and Locust Street, which provide access to the Schuylkill River Multi-Purpose Recreational Trail. The gates are controlled by an advanced electronic communication and activation system that is automatically actuated by sensors embedded in the railroad tracks. The trail runs along the Schuylkill River adjacent to a residential neighborhood and serves bicyclists, pedestrians with strollers, joggers, and other recreational users. The City of Philadelphia Streets Department has been mandated by PUC Court Order to maintain these gates in operational condition at all times to ensure public safety and regulatory compliance. The proposed contract is intended for General Highway Products during fiscal year 2027, with the request for prompt initiation to prevent maintenance gaps.

The justification emphasizes that failure to maintain the gates would constitute a violation of the PUC Court Order and create significant public safety liability for the City of Philadelphia. This micro purchase award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, either as a whole or by line item according to the City's best interest. Bidders must quote all items to be eligible for award, and no services or delivery should commence until formal notification is provided by the department. The contract is being expedited due to the critical nature of public safety obligations associated with the railroad crossing infrastructure.