The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) has issued a EUR 3 billion (USD 3.5 billion) tender for the Central Valley Track and Systems Construction Contract. The contract includes high-speed rail (HSR) track, catenary and traction power systems, train control, communications, testing and safety certification for 151 km plus extensions to Merced and Bakersfield. The contract is divided into nine construction phases with staggered Notice to Proceed, allowing equipment to be installed in sections as structures are completed. The CHSRA will supply materials such as rails, sleepers and catenary poles itself. The hybrid procurement model relies on strict cost and schedule control and uses a logistics centre in Kern County. Already 275 km are in planning or under construction, 112.6 km of track and over 80 structures have been completed. Since the start of construction, over 16,100 jobs have been created with up to 1,700 employees working on the construction sites every day.
