Title
CATS Blue Line Axle Counter System
Action
Action:
A. Approve the purchase of the Frauscher Axle Counter System by the sole source exemption, and
B. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a contract with Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc. for the purchase of the Frauscher Axle Counter System.
Body
Staff Resource(s):
Brent Cagle, CATS
Kelly Goforth, CATS
Jill Brim, CATS
Sole Source Exemption
§ NC General Statute Section 143-129(e)(6) provides that formal bidding requirements do not apply when:
- Performance or price competition are not available;
- A needed product is available from only one source or supply; or
- Standardization or compatibility is the overriding consideration.
§ Sole sourcing is necessary for this contract because a needed product is available from only one source or supply.
§ City Council approval is required for any purchases made under the sole source exception.
Explanation
§ The CATS Blue Line light rail system requires an upgrade to its signal system to include an Axle Counter System (ACS). The upgrade will improve system reliability and reduce delays associated with electromagnetic interference.
§ The existing signal system operates safely. When electromagnetic interference occurs, the system responds in a fail-safe condition that stops the train or prevents the train from proceeding until the track condition can be verified. While this provides a safe response, it can result in operational delays.
§ An ACS is a safety certified electronic system used to determine whether a section of track is occupied or clear. Trackside sensors detect and count train wheel axles entering and leaving each track section, allowing the system to confirm whether the track section is clear.
§ CATS proposes to use the Frauscher ACS, which includes wheel sensors, evaluation and communication equipment, housing, and associated cabling.
§ The Frauscher ACS is safety certified and has a proven record of over three years of use in North America transit systems, including operation in harsh weather conditions.
§ Total expenditures are estimated to be $797,975.
§ Consistent with Section 1.01(c)(ii)(A) of the Primary Interlocal Agreement between the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA) and the city dated June 22, 2026, the MPTA Executive Committee reviewed this Material Contract Action and did not request further review.
Charlotte Business INClusion
Sole source contracts are exempt from CBI Program goals, as these contracts do not involve a competitive bidding process and do not present opportunities for subcontracting. Sole sourcing was required for this contract because a needed product is available from only one source or supply. This aligns with what is required by NC General Statute Section 143-129(e)(3).
Fiscal Note
Funding: CATS Capital Investment Plan