Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) has begun the procurement process for the final design and construction contract for its Austin Light Rail Phase 1 project, which is expected to be awarded in 2026.
The project will introduce all-electric trains that will operate every 5-10 minutes during most of the day, offering connections to major job centres, education hubs, and key destinations across the city. Phase 1 of the Austin Light Rail includes 15 stations spanning nearly 10 miles, new pedestrian and cycling paths, and a new bridge across Lady Bird Lake. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the project expected to be operational by 2033.
As part of the procurement process, ATP has released a request for information (RFI) to gather industry feedback on the largest procurement of the project. This will seek design and construction partners to deliver services related to the transitway, tracks, systems, stations, bridges, traffic signals, utilities, drainage structures, and streetscape. The successful contractors will be involved throughout the design, construction, and operational phases of the project.
“Today marks an important milestone for Austin Light Rail as we move into the final design and construction phase. The partners selected will play a key role in shaping and delivering nearly every aspect of the city’s first light rail system, contributing to the project’s success,” Greg Canally, Executive Director of ATP, said.
ATP plans to use a progressive design-build delivery model, which will facilitate close collaboration with industry partners throughout the project. This model aims to innovate design solutions that meet Austin’s specific needs while keeping construction on track and aligning with the project budget.
The RFI will also provide the opportunity for businesses to review and offer feedback on the draft solicitation and contract documents. ATP has extended the deadline for responses to March 19, 2025. To support small firms, ATP will host a “Connect and Build: Partnerships for Austin Light Rail” event on February 26, offering networking opportunities for companies interested in collaborating on the project.
The Austin Light Rail project is expected to create or support hundreds of thousands of jobs. Data indicates that over 2,000 businesses across Texas could be involved in providing goods and services to support the construction of the light rail system.
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