Austin Transit Partnership Seeks Bids for Light Rail Build

Austin Transit Partnership has opened the bidding process for a $7.1 billion contract to design and build the city’s first-ever light rail system. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Austin Transit Partnership aims to begin full-scale construction of Phase 1 in 2027, following contract award in early 2026. The system will use all-electric trains running every 5 to 10 minutes and link residential areas to business hubs.

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The initial 10-mile segment will feature 15 stations and a new bridge over Lady Bird Lake. The plan also includes dedicated pedestrian and bike paths to support sustainable transportation goals.

Contractors will handle nearly every system element, including tracks, transitways, bridges, stations, traffic signals, drainage, utilities, and streetscape improvements. Work will continue through final design, construction, and launch, with full service expected by 2033.

The Austin Transit Partnership follows a design-build model that helps streamline delivery, control construction costs, and reduce urban disruption. This method integrates real-time cost analysis and encourages flexible, responsive engineering solutions.

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Greg Canally, CEO of the Austin Transit Partnership, described the project as a landmark opportunity. He said it will attract leading firms from across Texas and beyond to deliver a world-class transit solution.

ATP spent the past year finalizing the solicitation based on industry feedback. The bidding process began on June 5, 2025, with a Request for Qualifications due by July 3. Shortlisted firms will move forward to the Request for Proposals stage.

ATP will evaluate submissions based on qualifications, pricing, and technical approach. This two-phase process ensures transparency while allowing ATP to select the most capable teams for the job.

Austin’s light rail project represents a transformative step in urban infrastructure. With strategic execution, it promises to reshape mobility and connect communities more efficiently.

By engaging experienced partners and prioritizing sustainable design, the Austin Transit Partnership positions the city for long-term growth and cleaner, faster transportation.

Source: www.rtands.com

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