Metrolink Sustainable Locomotives Project

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority is procuring up to 12 Tier 4-compliant locomotives to replace an equal number of older Tier 2 locomotives within the Metrolink fleet, with the primary goal of significantly reducing air emissions and greenhouse gases while maintaining service reliability for approximately 3.6 million annual rail passengers. The project is designed with future flexibility in mind, ensuring that the new locomotives can be converted to zero-emission or hybrid powertrains during midlife if and when such technologies become widely available and proven in service. The beneficiaries extend beyond riders to include surrounding communities, particularly disadvantaged populations living near rail lines and facilities, addressing environmental justice concerns. The procurement is being conducted under a statutory exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), specifically citing sections 21083 and 21110 of the Public Resources Code, which allow for categorical exemptions due to the clear environmental benefits of replacing high-emission equipment with cleaner alternatives. The locomotives will be delivered and operated across the six-county Metrolink service area encompassing Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura counties. While no formal contract value, pricing structure, or line-item details are provided, the project is classified as a forecast and does not yet include a solicitation number or detailed contract type. Performance will occur entirely within California, with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority responsible for oversight and acceptance. The project contact is Kevin Bleich, Project Engineer I, and Justin Fornelli serves as the Chief of Program Delivery and lead agency representative. No federal acquisition regulation clauses, detailed evaluation factors, payment terms, contracting officer assignments, or contractor representations and certifications are included in the documentation, as the focus remains on environmental compliance and procurement intent under state authority. No specifications for packaging, marking, invoicing, delivery terms, or inspection protocols beyond Tier 4 compliance have been articulated, and while a certified exemption document is a required submission, no formal contract clauses, options, or special requirements are detailed at this stage.