6.3. SR 10-18-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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NCDA authorize the release of a Request for Proposals for engineering services. The scope of services would include: planning and development of six commuter rail stations; track and signal improvements to the BNSF railroad; development and design of maintenance, layover and central control facilities; and purchasing of rolling stock. Mr. Yantos noted that the term for preliminary engineering is from January 2005 through early 2006. Staff are proposing the following timeline: Issuance of RFP - September 13, 2004; Pre-proposal conference - September 30,2004; Questions due from respondents - October 4, 2004; proposals due - October 15, 2004; Interviews (if any) - week of October 25, 2004; Selection of consultant by NCDA - November 4, 2004; Contract negotiations - November 5 through December 1, 2004; Contract approval by NCDA - January 6, 2005. The Evaluation Team for this RFP consists of Tim Yantos, Mary Richardson, Kenneth Stevens, Mike Schadauer, Gary Erickson and Jon Olson. Mr. Yantos noted that funding for final design services is within the approved 2005 NCDA budget and work plan. Ken Stevens noted that the estimated cost of preliminary engineering for final design is $9.5 million. Jeanne Mason made a motion that the NCDA authorize staff to issue an RFP for engineering services for final design of the Northstar Commuter Rail Project as described. The motion was seconded by Tom Gamec and passed unanimously on a voice vote. John Weaver asked how BNSF negotiations are progressing. Tim Yantos responded very well. Bruce Nawrocki asked if an agreement had been reached yet with BNSF. Mr. Yantos noted that engineering services to complete the final design work should help negotiations progress. Mr. Nawrocki asked how many companies are expected to respond to this RFP. Ken Stevens noted that nationally there are quite a few firms that could respond and on a local level probably 6 to 7 firms could put together a proposal to carryout the work. 7. On behalf of the NCDA, Tim Yantos presented Jeff Dehler a certificate of appreciation for his creativity and enduring commitment to the realization of Northstar Commuter Rail and introduced Jill Brown with Anoka County as the new contact for public information needs. 8. John Himle gave an update on public information activities. He noted that a letter to Administrator, Jenna Dorn, FTA, thanking her for her efforts in helping to advance the Project, had been developed and jointly signed by Senator Dean Johnson, Senator Dick Day, Representative Steve Sviggum and Representative Matt Entenza and sent out. Mr. Himle also noted that his staff will be distributing briefing packets to the NCDA members as an example of what is given to new legislative members. 9. Elliott Perovich noted that not much had changed on the federal legislative process. He encouraged everyone to attend the Metropolitan Council's open house on October 18, 2004 regarding the Transportation Policy Plan. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:30 p.m. by Chair Grandy. Unanimously approved.