Pennsylvania launches CNG fuelling stations RFQ

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the design, build, finance, operation and maintenance of compressed natural gas (CNG) fuelling stations at up to 37 transit facilities, the state’s Public-Private Partnership Office said in a statement on Monday.

The stations, which will be located at public transit agencies, will also be available to the public.

In addition to selecting a preferred bidder for the building and financing of the fuelling stations, PennDOT will also enter into a CNG supply contract with the private sector partner and into purchase agreements with each of the transit agencies, according to the statement.

“Natural gas is a valuable resource that provides affordable, cleaner options for vehicles in Pennsylvania,” PennDOT secretary Barry Schoch said.

“This project will ensure we can capitalise on this resource and also benefit the authorities that provide vital transportation services,” he said, referring to a portion of the fuel sales revenues that PennDOT will receive and will in turn pass on to the transit agencies for future capital projects.

The deadline for responding to the RFQ is December 23, while a Request for Proposals is expected early next year.

The CNG fuelling station project is one of several that the state of Pennsylvania has tendered in the past year as a public-private partnership (PPP; P3). Most recently, it selected a preferred bidder – a team led by the Plenary Group and the Walsh Group – for its Rapid Bridge Replacement project, which will replace 558 structurally-deficient bridges throughout the state.

Other projects, at various stages of development, include the Wireless Telecommunications Partnership Programme, which will use PennDOT’s or other state property to build wireless telecommunications infrastructure; and the redevelopment of train stations and surrounding facilities along the Amtrak Keystone line.