US 101 Express Lanes Phase 5

The US 101 Express Lanes Phase 5 project, solicitation C26031F, is a major infrastructure initiative managed by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). The project involves converting existing High Occupancy Vehicle lanes to express lanes and constructing a second express lane to create a dual system along US Highway 101, spanning from the US 101/SR 237 interchange in Sunnyvale to the East Taylor Street Overcrossing in San Jose. Key construction activities include freeway widening, the installation of retaining walls and median concrete barriers, the creation of CHP enforcement areas, and the deployment of comprehensive tolling infrastructure, including fiber optic conduits, electrical systems, toll gantries, and rate signs. The estimated construction cost for the project is between 150 million and 165 million dollars, with an estimated duration of 1,270 calendar days. The procurement process utilizes a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) strategy, where award is granted to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder who meets all pre-qualification standards. Bidders must undergo a rigorous pre-qualification process involving a point-based scoring system that evaluates years of experience, safety performance via the Experience Modification Rate (EMR), financial stability, and apprenticeship program participation. Essential requirements for qualification include holding valid California contractor licenses for Class A, C-8, C-10, and HAZ classifications, as well as registration under California Labor Code Section 1725.5. Submissions must be made electronically through the VTA eProcurement Portal at least fifteen days prior to the bid opening scheduled for October 2026.