Caltrain issues RFQ for electrification project

Caltrain has released a request for qualification focused on the design and construction of an electric power infrastructure.

The RFQ's release represents an "important step forward" in Caltrain's modernization program, agency officials said in a press release.

Caltrain is on track to begin operating electric train service between San Francisco and San Jose, Calif., in 2019. The project involves two key components: implementation of an electric power infrastructure system and the replacement of diesel trains with high-performance electric trains, officials said.

The RFQ is an opportunity for design-build teams to go through a qualification process before the request for proposals are issued. The RFP for the project's electrification portion is expected to be issued in early 2015, after the project receives environmental clearance. Only pre-qualified teams will be able to submit a proposal.

The contract is expected to be the largest ever awarded by the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, according to Caltrain.

Interested design-build teams can view the RFQ on the agency’s procurement website.