The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has received an unsolicited proposal to accelerate conversion of the Orange Line from bus rapid transit to light rail through a public-private partnership (P3).

The proposal from Fluor Enterprises, Inc., is the first that Metro has received for this Measure M project and the tenth proposing an alternative delivery method for a major capital project.

Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation (OEI) is now in the process of assembling a Phase 1 review team to evaluate the concept on its financial and technical merit.

The review team will be charged with reaching a decision on whether to advance the proposal to the next phase of review, decline further review or proceed directly to a competitive solicitation.

Since opening in 2005 between North Hollywood and Warner Center in Woodland Hills, the 18-mile Orange Line has exceeded even the most liberal ridership projections. In 2012, it was extended from Canoga Park to the Chatsworth Metrolink and Amtrak station. It is the busiest bus route in the San Fernando Valley.

Metro Board Chair John Fasana said:

“Thanks to the voters who supported Measure M, the private sector is taking the opportunity to work with Metro. Metro’s thoughtful approach to exploring innovations can help ensure the voters receive the best return on their investment.”

Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington stated:

“Our call for unsolicited proposals has prompted this proposal and we see that as proof positive that we are stimulating excitement in the private sector for Metro projects. These proposals can be game changers in delivering better mobility to our region sooner than expected.”

Metro Chief Innovation Officer Joshua Schank said:

“Since we announced our new unsolicited proposal policy to the public one year ago, we have been gratified by the strong response. We are seeing innovation at its best in the proposals and we look forward to delivering projects and programs – supported by P3s – to improve the quality of life of our region.”