Keaton PetersAustin is one step closer to breaking ground on a massive light rail expansion. The Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) is initiating the procurement process for what will be one of the largest infrastructure contracts in Texas history to construct the light rail portion of Project Connect, a major public transit system overhaul passed in 2020. The organization has released a request for information (RFI) seeking industry feedback on the final design and construction contract for the system’s first phase, which will begin construction in 2027.
The procurement process targets the project’s largest contract package, which will encompass the design and construction of nearly 10 miles of track, 15 stations, bridges and associated infrastructure. Using a progressive design-build delivery model, the selected contractors will work closely with ATP through the project’s completion, scheduled for 2033.
Austin’s light rail project is the most significant public transit investment to ever come to Central Texas. As the region’s population has boomed, the public transit system has not yet seen a proportionate expansion. In response, voters in 2020 approved Project Connect, looking to transform mobility by providing reliable, frequent service connecting major employment centers, educational institutions and popular downtown destinations.
ATP Executive Director Greg Canally said the release of the RFI “marks a crucial milestone as we transition to the final design and construction phase.” The project will include all-electric trains running every 5-10 minutes throughout most of the day, along with new pedestrian and cycling paths and a bridge spanning Lady Bird Lake.
ATP’s approach to procurement prioritizes collaboration with industry partners to develop design solutions while keeping constructability and cost efficiency at the forefront. The progressive design-build model allows for real-time cost integration during design development to prevent the project from going over budget.
The organization is particularly focused on engaging local and small businesses in the project. ATP will host a “Connect and Build: Partnerships for Austin Light Rail” event on February 26, creating networking opportunities between small firms and prime contractors interested in pursuing the main contract.
The economic impact of the project is expected to be substantial, with projections indicating it will create or support hundreds of thousands of jobs. ATP has identified more than 2,000 Texas businesses that could potentially provide goods and services for the project’s construction.
Industry partners have until March 19 to respond to the RFI, with the formal contract solicitation expected to begin in June. Construction is scheduled to start in 2027, with the system planned to open for service in 2033.
Photo courtesy CarmenEsparzaAmoux, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
