HSR26-28 Invitation for Bids for Copper Conductors

The California High-Speed Rail Authority has issued Invitation for Bids HSR26-28 for the manufacture and supply of OCS Copper Conductors to support the First Construction Segment of its high-speed rail track. The scope of work requires the production of 150mm2 Copper Tin contact wire and 65mm2 Bz catenary/messenger wire for the SNCF S220 OCS system. All materials must be Buy America compliant per 49 U.S.C. 22905 and adhere to specific international technical standards, including EN 50149, IEC 63190, EN 50182, and EN 50326. Performance includes delivering materials to sites in Kern and Fresno Counties, with a requirement for direct handoff to the Authority's onsite contractor at the railhead. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder based on a pass/fail evaluation of technical criteria, including the capability to produce the conductors and ensure timely delivery. Bidders must submit a bid bond equal to 10 percent of the total bid amount and commit to small business goals, including a 25 percent Small Business goal (inclusive of 3 percent Micro-Business) and a separate 3 percent Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise goal. Bids are due by November 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM PST, and must include a hard-copy Bid Form in a sealed envelope along with a comprehensive electronic PDF submission. Contractors must comply with extensive federal and state regulations, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the California Labor Code. Quality assurance is strictly managed through a required First Article inspection and the submission of a Quality Control Plan within 60 days of the Notice to Proceed. Invoicing is to be handled electronically on a monthly basis through the Authority's Financial Office in Sacramento.