CATS Light Rail Tire Wheel Kits

The City of Charlotte is seeking a contract for CATS Light Rail Tire Wheel Kits through Invitation to Bid (ITB) 269-2026-1870, with the primary objective of procuring 32 sets of tire wheel kits per year for Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) maintenance. The procurement is structured as a 3-year contract with options for two additional one-year extensions, specifically targeting replacement spares for existing light rail infrastructure. Penn Machine Company, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for Bochum Tires, is the designated supplier to ensure complete hardware interchangeability with existing Siemens LRV systems. The bid was originally posted on July 29, 2025, with an initial due date of August 29, 2025, though an addendum indicates potential modifications to the bid opening meeting and close date. Vendors must complete multiple mandatory forms including references, debarment certification, exceptions documentation, anti-lobbying certification, and Buy America certification to be considered eligible.

The contract appears to have specific provisions for small and disadvantaged business participation, as evidenced by the CBI Form 3 for Subcontractor Supplier Utilization Commitment. While precise budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement is for a specialized, proprietary component of the city's light rail infrastructure, suggesting a potentially significant investment. The opportunity is geographically restricted to Mecklenburg County and Charlotte City in North Carolina, with clear preferences for OEM sourcing to maintain system integrity. Potential bidders must demonstrate compliance with non-discrimination provisions and possess technical capabilities specific to light rail vehicle wheel kit manufacturing and supply. The procurement process utilizes the Bonfire Procurement Portal for submission, indicating a structured, digital approach to vendor selection and contract management.