Pre-Qualification: Overhead Contact System (OCS) Rehabilitation Project Phase 4A – Tasman West/East

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is soliciting pre-qualifications for the Overhead Contact System (OCS) Rehabilitation Project Phase 4A – Tasman West/East (Solicitation C26152F). This project focuses on the rehabilitation of OCS segments in the Tasman West Corridor, specifically renewing the single contact wire system on the main line and crossovers. The scope of work includes detailed engineering design, procurement, installation, and testing of OCS components from traction power substation feeder breakers to the light rail vehicle pantograph. Key tasks involve replacing 300 kcmil contact wire, various insulators, and surge arresters, as well as performing site-specific support work such as pole replacements and shaft repairs. All work must be performed within an active light rail operating environment, requiring strict adherence to VTA safety procedures and close coordination to minimize operational impacts. To be eligible to bid, firms must be approved through a rigorous pre-qualification process by November 13, 2026. Essential technical requirements include a proven track record of installing at least five miles of OCS for a mainline electrification railroad or urban transit system within the last ten years, with each contract valued at a minimum of $800,000. Additionally, management and supervisory personnel must possess similar experience. Evaluation is based on a qualification questionnaire and reference interviews, where a score of 72 or higher on two interviews is generally required for qualification. Bidders must submit a notarized validation statement, a certification form, and detailed organizational history via the VTA eProcurement portal. Financial and legal requirements include maintaining liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, as well as compliance with prevailing wage and apprenticeship standards.