Ultrasonic Rail Testing Service

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority in Boston, Massachusetts is seeking a contractor to provide ultrasonic rail testing services. The agency needs to inspect approximately 140 miles of transit mainline track divided into five lines, which include the Green, Orange, Red, Blue, and Mattapan/PCC Lines. This testing will solve the problem of identifying internal rail defects to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the transit system. The scope of work covers semi-annual inspections beginning approximately August 2026 for a three-year period, with two optional one-year extensions. The agency requires the contractor to furnish, operate, maintain, and power a self-propelled, diesel-powered hi-rail vehicle. This vehicle must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, negotiate curves as tight as a 100-foot radius, and handle grades of six percent. The vehicle must also clear all right-of-way obstructions, fit within provided clearance envelopes, and contain seating with a seatbelt for at least one agency employee. Bidders must perform all work onsite and must be located onshore within the United States. The agency requires its Maintenance of Way Track Engineers to measure and certify the hi-rail vehicle for clearances before any testing begins. The agency notes a contract period of one year in its description, and the budget signal indicates that the agency is looking for proposals to determine the cost.