RFP - 75A0581 - Fleet Modernization

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Fleet Modernization Project, which seeks to completely renovate the interiors and exteriors of California's existing intercity passenger rail fleet in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. The project will involve a 9-month design period followed by a 4-year implementation phase to update the entire 139-vehicle fleet. The selected design firm will be expected to provide a conceptual design study supported by stakeholder surveys, develop a mock-up vehicle (or scale model) for prototype testing and production, and refine the designs for full-scale implementation. The key objectives are to deliver an updated, customer-oriented product that will attract riders in the post-pandemic setting, while saving future costs and aligning with modern public transportation trends. Proposals are due by April 11, 2024, and the estimated contract award date is the week of April 29, 2024.

The RFP includes a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) incentive program, and Caltrans is committed to meeting a 25% Small Business participation goal. The total contract amount cannot exceed $1,800,000, and Caltrans will perform a pre-award audit to ensure the selected contractor's accounting system is adequate. The contract term is estimated to run from May 31, 2024 to May 31, 2025. The solicitation documents do not currently have updates for digital accessibility, but Caltrans will apply accessibility updates as soon as they are available.