Meeting_Body
OPERATIONS, SAFETY, AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE
SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Subject
SUBJECT: HI RAIL SWING LOADERS
Action
ACTION: AWARD CONTRACT
Heading
RECOMMENDATION
Title
AUTHORIZE the Chief Executive Officer to award a firm fixed price contract, Contract No. DR135489 for six swing loaders with hi-rail gears to SWNG Inc. (DBA Swingmaster), the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, for a total contract amount of $2,573,400, plus applicable California’s use tax, subject to the resolution of any properly submitted protest(s), if any.
Issue
ISSUE
This procurement is for the replacement and expansion of Metro-owned and operated swing loaders utilized by the Maintenance of Way (MOW) department to support Rail revenue services. This specialized equipment ensures that track maintenance personnel have the reliable tools necessary to perform daily track maintenance and respond to emergencies throughout Los Angeles County.
Given ongoing rail expansion, this equipment is vital to meet system integration milestones, adhering to project timelines, and supporting future maintenance demands. Additionally, the equipment will be used to maintain Metro’s rail tracks, ensuring full compliance with California Public Utility Commissions (CPUC) rules and regulations.
Background
BACKGROUND
Swing loaders equipped with hi-rail gearing are highly versatile, specialized vehicles designed to operate both on highway roads and directly on rail tracks. They are the primary workhorses for MOW track crews, used to lift and replace heavy rail ties, clear track debris, distribute ballast, and perform critical rail welding and maintenance operations.
Currently, Metro’s MOW department operates an aging fleet of swing loaders that have exceeded their useful life cycle, leading to increased maintenance downtime and higher repair costs. Replacing three of these legacy units is critical to avoiding service delays. Furthermore, with the ongoing expansion of Metro's r...
Click here for full text