On Dec. 16, the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for early train operator services to assist with the development and management of the initial operations of the high-speed rail system.
CAHSRA says "early engagement of a train operator is a critical step that moves the program beyond planning, design and construction towards a commercial operations phase. Strategically partnering with the private sector operator will help assure the high-speed rail system is designed to enhance ultimate commercial value and profitability."
The 2016 Business Plan called for the engagement of an early train operator to ensure that their perspective is considered in the planning and design of the civil works, infrastructure, high-speed trains (rolling stock), and facilities. CHSRA says "bringing on an early train operator during the current development phase of the high-speed rail program will allow them to advise the Authority on strategies to build future enterprise value by improving asset performance and revenues, while managing and reducing program costs. The early train operator will also make sure that operational considerations are taken into account during the planning, design and construction phases, ensuring the Authority is planning the system in a way that will increase its attractiveness to riders while also reducing operating and maintenance costs."
This RFQ is the first part of a two-part procurement process, with a Request for Proposals to be released to qualified offerors in spring 2017 with the goal of having the Early Train Operator on board this summer. CAHSRA says the contract will be a performance-based contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $30 million dollars for the first phase of the contract.