US 101 Express Lanes Phase 5

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is requesting bids on Contract C26031F to convert existing HOV lanes to express lanes and construct a dual express lane system on US 101 from Fair Oaks Avenue in Sunnyvale to near the US 101/I-880 interchange in San Jose, with bids due October 29, 2026 and a pre-bid conference on October 6. The project is federally funded through the Federal Highway Administration and California Department of Transportation, making all federal and state requirements applicable, and carries a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation goal of 7.8%.

The scope involves converting existing HOV lanes to Phase 3 Express Lanes standards and adding a second express lane to create a dual system. Work spans Santa Clara County and San Francisco City. The contract term is 1,270 calendar days with no renewal options. All materials must be FOB Destination, prepaid and allowed, at no additional cost to VTA.

The project is estimated at $150 million to $165 million. Award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder based on the total bid price. Bid security of no less than 5% of the total bid price is required in the form of a certified check, cashier's check, cash, or bid bond.

Pre-qualification is mandatory for all bidders. Bidders and all subcontractors must hold current California Contractors State License Board classifications including Class A (General Engineering), C-8 (Concrete), C-10 (Electrical), and HAZ (Hazardous Substance Removal Certification), and must be registered with the California Department of Industrial Relations at bid submission. The project is a public work subject to California prevailing wage requirements; both state and federal wage rates apply, with the higher rate prevailing. A Project Labor Agreement is required given the estimated cost exceeds $2 million. The deadline for IFB comments is October 10, 2026. The anticipated Notice of Recommended Award is November 3, 2026.