The Process
What is the LMRS task framework?
LMRS can frame your needs around a specific project with an end deliverable or as an open ended fractional arrangement.
Project Agreements: Offers the client the certainty of a known timeline, project deliverable and budget. This option is best for clients with clear strategic objectives which understand the role of a specific project in an overall infrastructure management strategy.
Fractional Support: Offers the client embedded support and ongoing access to strategic planning, capital improvement program management and regulatory oversight, without the cost of a full-time employee.
How does LMRS Structure Billing?
We align our billing with your operational preferences:
Fixed-Fee Milestone Packages: Ideal for grant applications (CRISI, state rail funds) and discrete studies, giving you a guaranteed scope and total cost.
Monthly Fractional Retainers: Fixed monthly rates for ongoing strategic advisory, project development, and regulatory support.
Capped Hourly Advisory: Hourly engagement with strict Not-To-Exceed (NTE) caps for targeted technical reviews or short-term advisory.
What happens if a project scope changes?
We structure our agreements to be modular and expandable for certain known variable workflows, however, LMRS is realistic about adapting to changing plans.
If a project scope grows beyond the original vision, we maintain complete transparency. If a project's technical scope expands—such as additional engineering review or expanded corridor mapping—we flag it immediately and execute a formal, pre-approved scope update before any additional work takes place. You will never receive an unexpected invoice.
Can LMRS perform work as a sub?
Absolutely. We regularly partner with prime engineering and planning firms as a senior 1099 rail subject matter expert. We plug directly into your project team for planning efforts, CRISI/PIDP grant management, Benefit-Cost Analyses (BCA), and FRA compliance audits—delivering senior-level expertise with transparent subcontractor rates.
If you team needs on demand rail infrastructure and project development expertise, but the right person isn’t available, reach out to discuss LMRS can join your team.
Where does LMRS support projects?
We support short-line railroads, industrial shippers, and infrastructure clients nationwide across the United States. Whether you are managing an industrial spur in the Northeast, a regional corridor in the Midwest, or short-line assets out West, our services are fully available regardless of location.
For strategy development, grant drafting, and regulatory reviews, we collaborate seamlessly through remote tools to keep overhead low. When hands-on field work is needed—such as physical corridor walk-throughs, mock FRA audits, or state DOT agency meetings—on-site travel expenses are structured clearly and transparently, either built into a fixed project milestone or itemized separately based on your preference.
Does LMRS use non-disclose agreements?
Absolutely. Confidentiality and trust are essential when discussing railroad operations, financial models, and long-term capital plans. Before opening any formal project discussions or reviewing proprietary data, we first perform an internal screening to ensure there are zero conflicts of interest with adjacent carriers or partners. Once cleared, we put a simple, plain-language Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) in place to protect your sensitive operational, real estate, and strategic information. This ensures complete privacy and gives you total peace of mind from day one.