The state’s Public-Private Transportation Partnership Office is inviting the private sector to submit their qualifications to compete for the opportunity to develop clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling stations at public transit agencies around the state that would also be available for use by the public.

“Natural gas is a valuable resource that provides affordable, cleaner options for vehicles in Pennsylvania,” said PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch. “This project will ensure we can capitalize on this resource and also benefit the authorities that provide vital transportation services.”

The selected private partner will design, build, finance, operate and maintain CNG filling stations at up to 37 transit facilities. Each fueling site must provide access to CNG for public transit and other CNG vehicles.

In addition, PennDOT will enter into a CNG supply contract with the selected partner as well as purchase agreements with each of the transit agencies. PennDOT would receive a portion of the fuel sales revenue, with the money being returned to transit agencies to assist with future capital projects.

The project was approved by the state’s P3 Board on September 29 and PennDOT has hosted an industry forum to educate potential, private-sector stakeholders on the scope and requirements.

Interested proposers must submit in hard copy their statements of qualifications to design, build, finance, operate and maintain CNG filling stations to the PennDOT Public-Private Transportation Partnership Office, P.O. Box 3545, Harrisburg, PA 17105, by 11 a.m. on December 23.

Parties can view submission requirements on the Updates, Current Advertisements webpage.

In 2013, Pennsylvania became the second-largest natural gas producing state in the nation. The abundance of low-cost natural gas has driven electric and natural gas prices down nearly 40 percent since 2008, saving the average Pennsylvania resident nearly $1,200 annually in lower energy costs. After importing 75 percent of its natural gas just five years ago, Pennsylvania has become a net exporter of gas for the first time in more than 100 years.

To learn more, visit the P3 in Pennsylvania webpage.

12/1/2014