On Jan. 7 the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority issued a Request for Proposals for operations and maintenance services for the Cincinnati Streetcar.
The scope of work includes responsibility for staffing, processes, procedures, materials, services and management that result in the successful operation of the streetcar in a safe, reliable, efficient and customer-friendly manner.
Proposals are due no later than March 3, 2 p.m. EST.
SORTA is considering two possible options: an inclusive turnkey contractor approach and a management contractor approach. SORTA is requesting that proposers submit proposals and price information for both approaches.
Under the turnkey contract approach, the contractor would operate and maintain the Cincinnati Streetcar as described in the RFP. The contractor would accomplish all required activities utilizing personnel that it directly employs and manages. SORTA anticipates this would include personnel who focus on operations, maintenance, supervision, management, safety, security, administration, and other functions necessary to fulfill the scope requirements outlined in this RFP.
Under the management contract approach, the contractor would provide management services to operate and maintain the Cincinnati Streetcar as described in the RFP. SORTA would be responsible for employing, hiring, paying, and administering benefits for front-line operations and maintenance personnel. The contractor would manage these employees on a day-to-day basis. The contractor would directly employ and manage all other personnel needed to accomplish the scope requirements outlined in this RFP.
"The Cincinnati Streetcar project benefits from strong partnerships between SORTA and the City of Cincinnati,” said Paul Grether, rail services director for SORTA. “SORTA is looking for a contractor that can add value to that partnership through the delivery of cost-effective and high-quality streetcar service."
Background: In late 2014, the City of Cincinnati and SORTA approved an Operating & Maintenance Agreement for the Cincinnati Streetcar. Under the agreement, SORTA’s responsibilities include streetcar operations, vehicle maintenance, facilities maintenance, fare collection system provision and maintenance, marketing, and advertising sales.
Slated to open in September 2016, the Cincinnati Streetcar is intended to expand transportation options, stimulate development and job creation, and enhance livability by connecting key destinations in and around the center city.
