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Rail Tamping Machine Contract
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DESCRIPTION: A request to purchase a rail tamping machine. |
AGENDA NO: Click or tap here to enter text. |
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ACTION REQUEST: ☒ Approval ☐ Review Comment ☐ Information Only ☐ Other |
RECOMMENDATION:
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Authorize the Chief Executive Officer to award a contract to Harsco Rail LLC for the purchasing of a rail tamping machine for an amount not to exceed $1,268,420.00.
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ISSUE/BACKGROUND:
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A tamping machine is essential for maintaining railway tracks. It packs and aligns the stone ballast beneath railroad ties using mechanized hydraulic rams. This process stabilizes the track foundation and corrects track geometry alignment, ensuring the tracks remain level and durable. Unfortunately, our existing hand tamping machines are beyond repair. Regular tamping is essential for the St. Charles and Riverfront streetcar lines because they are non-embedded and concrete-encased tracks. The tamping machine is primarily used for the St. Charles line and riverfront lines, and other non-concrete embedded sections tracks. Historically, we have had to rent older tamping machines from other agencies to perform this work or used hand tamping machines.
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DISCUSSION:
The new proposed rail tamping machine is a self-propelled, rail-mounted machine used to pack (or tamp) the track ballast beneath railway tracks. This process makes the tracks and roadbed more durable and level. By purchasing this tamping machine, we can significantly improve the overall ride and experience for our customers. Historically, we had to rent older tamping machines from other agencies to perform this work. Regular tamping is essential for the St. Charles and Riverfront streetcar lines because they are non-embedded and concrete-encased tracks. The tamping machine is primarily used for the St. Charles line and other non-embedded tracks. Additionally, this new tamping machine will be more effective and improve efficiency compared to hand tamping machines.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funding is available through grant funding (LA-2024-011 ALI 12.42.06) and LA-2023-001 ALI 12.42.06, total estimated cost of this equipment is $1,268,420.00 which will be funded by the grants mentioned above.
NEXT STEPS:
When approved to proceed, the team will issue purchase order and notify Harsco Rail LLC to proceed.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution
2. Routing Sheet
3. Procurement Summary
4. Harsco Bid
Prepared By: Floyd Bailey Jr
Title: Director of Rail Maintenance
Reviewed By: Ryan Moser
Title: Chief Asset Manager
Reviewed By: Gizelle Banks
Title: Chief Financial Officer
12/6/2024
Lona Edwards Hankins Date
Chief Executive Officer