Amtrak officials have initiated the procurement phase for the Southern Approach construction package totaling over $1 billion, representing the first of three Baltimore B&P Tunnel Replacement Program construction contracts.
Per Amtrak, the passenger rail carrier has issued a Request for Letters Of Interest (LOI) and indicated that phase of the program will be completed via a Construction Manager At-Risk (CMAR) delivery approach.
“This is a major milestone for the B&P Tunnel Replacement Program and this contract includes several critical elements of the project,” Amtrak Executive Vice President of Capital Delivery Laura Mason said. “Amtrak will be procuring multiple construction contracts as part of the program, which will include the construction of the new Frederick Douglass Tunnel, and other supporting investments, such as new bridges and railroad infrastructure, improving this vital stretch of the Northeast Corridor for generations to come.”
In outlining the process, Amtrak noted contractors interested in serving as the CMAR are required to complete the LOI to be eligible to receive the RFP (Request For Proposals) issued for that portion of the project later this year.
Additionally, the passenger rail provider said it would issue the RFP only to contractors who have submitted timely and compliant LOIs – requesting interested contractors visit Amtrak’s Procurement Portal for more information and submittal requirements.
The B&P Tunnel Replacement Program is slated to transform the Northeast Corridor in west Baltimore, according to officials, adding the program includes nearly $5 billion of construction, and after receipt of new federal funding created by last year’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Amtrak will be ready to complete early construction activities.