CATS Rail Geometry Testing

Track Geometry Testing Rail

Statement of Work (SOW)

1. Overview

The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates over 40 miles of rail infrastructure on the LYNX Blue Line, including double mainline track, storage tracks, yard tracks, crossings, and interlockings. Maintaining safe and reliable track conditions is critical to ensuring passenger safety and sustaining a state of good repair.

To support this objective, CATS is developing a comprehensive automated track inspection program to identify, assess, and mitigate track geometry defects in accordance with industry standards and internal maintenance protocols.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Track Geometry Testing program is to measure and evaluate critical geometric parameters of the Blue Line track structure without impacting revenue service operations. Testing will be conducted during non-revenue hours to ensure operational continuity.

Parameters generally measured include:

• Runoff

• Profile

• Cross level

• Superelevation

• Curvature

• Track alignment

• Gauge

• Rail profiles (left and right running rails)

• 31-foot and 62-foot warp

• 31-foot and 62-foot twist

All measurements collected shall comply with the most current American Public Transportation Association (APTA) track safety standards.

3. Scope of Services

The selected Vendor should provide an automated Track Geometry Vehicle (TGV) capable of:

• Collecting and recording all required geometry measurements listed above

• Operating in hi-rail mode to ensure full system accessibility

• Utilizing advanced sensors, measuring systems, and data management platforms to generate accurate track profiles

• Analyzing collected data in real time during testing operations

• Performing immediate manual verification of suspect indications in the field

All identified defects shall be coded in accordance with the CATS Maintenance of Way (MOW) Track Standards Manual, including proper severity classification.

4. Testing Schedule and Requirements

• Testing shall be performed annually, in accordance with APTA requirements.

• All testing shall occur during non-revenue hours between 0130 and 0400 hours.

• CATS will provide a qualified pilot to assist with track access and operational coordination.

• Vendors must possess hi-rail testing capability.

• All vendor personnel must obtain Roadway Worker Protection Program (RWPP) certification through CATS Rail Safety personnel prior to the commencement of testing shifts.

The scope includes the full 40 miles of double-track infrastructure on the LYNX Blue Line, including crossings, interlockings, storage tracks, and yard tracks as required.

5. Reporting and Deliverables

At the conclusion of each testing night, the Vendor shall:

• Generate a detailed track geometry report

• Identify and document all defects and severity classifications

• Present findings to CATS personnel

• Provide an electronic copy of all data and reports

Upon completion of the full testing cycle, a comprehensive final report shall be submitted in electronic format.

6. Program Objective

This annual geometry testing program is intended to:

• Provide accurate, reliable, and actionable track condition data

• Support immediate corrective maintenance actions

• Inform long-term capital and maintenance planning

• Maintain regulatory compliance and system safety

Through this proactive inspection strategy, CATS will continue to ensure the safety, reliability, and long-term sustainability of its rail infrastructure.