RLBA supported the bid of two partners in a unique and precedent-setting arrangement to operate the commuter rail services of Metrolink in Los Angeles region, the largest new-start commuter rail operation in the United States. RLBA reviewed and proposed enhancements to an outline of Connex’s proposal to operate Metrolink service, providing extensive comments and relating its knowledge of and experience with that commuter rail service. RLBA was involved with its inception and participated in a number of subsequent assignments both on that property and on numerous, similar properties. This firm also was asked to screen potential candidates assisting Connex in staffing its management team. RLBA reviewed and commented upon the proposed, detailed assignment (“run cuts”) of train crews to satisfy Metrolink’s current train schedules. RLBA drafted the part of the proposal addressing the inherent value of a partnership between Connex and one of the Class 1 railroads, over which many Metrolink trains operate. Finally, RLBA was asked to review and commented extensively on the final draft of the Connex-BNSF proposal. When the partnership was selected to replace Amtrak, effective July 1, 2005, RLBA continued to serve as on-call advisor to Connex supporting mobilization planning.