Implementing “On-Site” Vehicle Modification Projects

This paper describes how transit agencies usually perform large, capital-intensive vehicle projects (such as a fleet mid-life overhaul program) at an “off-site” location – typically at a railcar builder’s facility. The transit agencies typically perform smaller, less capital-intensive projects (such as renewing vehicle roofs, painting carbodies, equipping vehicles with new ATP systems, upgrading flooring, renewing seats, etc.) “on-site” at the transit agency’s maintenance facility. Some key reasons why transit agencies choose to perform small- to mid-scale projects “on-site” and in the agency’s maintenance facility are economics and established relationships with qualified vendors. In many cases, a small-scale prototype or a pilot program will evolve into a fleet-wide modification program. Transit agencies then procure the services of a third-party Contractor to perform the “on-site” modification work. The “complete on-site” concept is not new. As rail transit systems continue to mature and expand, transit agencies increasingly adapt and use the “complete-on-site” concept for small- and mid-scale projects. Planning is critical to the success of any project; however, the planning process is crucial to the success of “complete-on-site” projects. Transit agencies must incorporate a high level of planning when considering on-site projects, since they face unique logistical and operational challenges during the entire program. For example, challenges may include the availability of maintenance shop resources, vehicle movement restrictions, or space constraints caused by Contractor equipment. These issues can affect both the transit agency and the Contractor, and could possibly lead to claims. Similarly, other factors such as collective bargaining agreements or shop space constraints might limit the “on-site” scope of work or possibly eliminate the “complete-on-site” concept as a viable option. Each transit agency and each project are unique; but planning and considering common, key factors will increase the chances of achieving a positive outcome. This paper highlights key success factors and the lessons learned that transit agencies might consider when implementing on-site projects.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/1931594236
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Paper is available on the CD-ROM conference proceedings but was not presented at the conference.
• Corporate Authors:

  American Public Transportation Association

  1666 K Street, NW, Suite 1100
  Washington, DC  United States  20006
• Authors:
  • Krishnamurthy, Balaji
  • Elkaim, David
• Conference:
  • Investing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow. The 2006 Rail Conference
  • Date: 2006-6-11 to 2006-6-14
• Publication Date: 2006

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures;
• Pagination: 7p
• Monograph Title: Investing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow. Proceedings of the 2006 Rail Conference

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Capital investments; Maintenance; Maintenance facilities; Maintenance of way; Public transit; Railroad vehicle operations; Railroad yards; Transit operating agencies
• Uncontrolled Terms: Offsite; Onsite
• Subject Areas: Maintenance and Preservation; Public Transportation; Railroads; Terminals and Facilities; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01033574
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 1931594236
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 29 2006 10:37AM