Copper Conductors

The California High-Speed Rail Authority is requesting sealed bids for Overhead Contact System copper conductors compliant with EN/IEC standards under IFB No. HSR26-28, with bids due November 13, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The procurement is subject to Buy America and Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) requirements with no current waivers available — a mandatory compliance filter. Small Business participation goals total 25 percent of contract value, including a 3 percent microbusiness goal and a 10 percent race-neutral Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goal.

The scope covers newly manufactured catenary (messenger) wire and contact wire built to EN/IEC standards for the high-speed rail system's electrical power, control signals, and communications infrastructure. Materials will be delivered to two railhead locations: approximately one-third to Wasco in Kern County and the remaining quantity to a Fresno County railhead. Delivery will occur across three contract years through multiple Notices to Proceed (NTP 1, NTP 2, and NTP 3) supporting the 119-mile First Construction Section and potential extensions to northern and southern segments.

The total not-to-exceed dollar value for all materials procurements (OCS copper conductors, poles, long welded rail, concrete ties, ballast, OCS components, fiber optic cables, and cable troughs) is $507.1 million, subject to funding availability and specific delivery orders. The contract term is one to three years. Bidders must submit a bid bond equal to 10 percent of the total bid amount and comply with California prevailing wage requirements. The Authority will conduct virtual bid opening at 2:00 p.m. on November 13. One-on-one meetings with Authority representatives are available October 19–23, 2026. Written questions are due October 23, 2026. Anticipated contract award is December 2026 through January 2027, contingent upon Authority Board approval and contract execution within seven days of the award notice.