Track Geometry and Overhead Contact System (OCS) Height & Stagger and Wire Wear Measurement

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) for comprehensive Track Geometry and Overhead Contact System (OCS) Height & Stagger and Wire Wear Measurement services. The procurement covers inspection and measurement services for METRO's light rail system, specifically targeting the 12.6-mile Original Red Line, 6.7-mile Purple Line, and 3.2-mile Green Line. The contract will span three years with two optional extension years, with work performed during non-revenue hours using a dedicated Hi-rail vehicle. Contractors must utilize non-contact measurement systems equipped with GPS, imagery, laser-based, and inertial sensors to conduct detailed track geometry measurements, rail profile assessments, and overhead contact system wire wear measurements. Bid evaluation will be based on a five-year total extended bid amount, with bidders required to submit pricing for six line items including mobilization, transit nightly rates, overhead wire measurement, data port access, travel and transportation, and associated costs. The solicitation requires contractors to self-perform a minimum of 30% of the contract value, and the bid is due on October 29, 2025.

The solicitation does not specify a small business participation goal, but does have specific requirements for contractor qualifications and capabilities. METRO will provide 10 user licenses for an electronic database and web portal to access collected data, and the contractor must provide 20 hours of engineering support annually. All personnel must complete METRO's Roadway Worker Protection Course and obtain safety certification before accessing work sites. Contractors will be responsible for securing necessary city, county, and state permits for the project. While no specific award value is mentioned in the documentation, the comprehensive nature of the services and the multi-year contract term suggest a significant procurement opportunity for qualified vendors with specialized track and overhead contact system measurement capabilities. The requirement for advanced measurement technologies and comprehensive reporting indicates this is a technically complex contract targeting vendors with specialized engineering and transportation infrastructure inspection expertise.