1-FY25-RFP-005 IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

FY25-RFP-005

for

IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION

for

DES MOINES AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT

AUTHORITY

Services Requested: Network Hardware replacement

Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price

Number of Contracts: Single Award

Duration:

2 Years with 8 Optional Number 1

Year Renewals

Funding Source: Capital Grants

Date Issued: July 9, 2025

Deadline for Questions Regarding this RFP: August 4, 2025

Answers to Questions Posted on Website: August 6, 2025

Proposals Due: August 11, 2025, 4:30 PM CT

Tentative Contract Award Date: November 15, 2025

LEGAL NOTICE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION

Sealed proposals are hereby requested by the DES MOINES AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, 620 Cherry St., Des Moines, Iowa to be received until 4:30 PM Central Time, on August 11, 2025, for IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION.

Requests for clarification and/or questions concerning the issued document shall be directed to Amanda Waltz in the DART Procurement Department at 515-283-5033 or e-mail awaltz@ridedart.com. All submittal questions concerning this RFP are due on or before August 4, 2025 9:00 AM. This will be the only notice rendered for this procurement. Proposal Documents can be obtained at DART Central Station, above address, during the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or DART’s e-procurement site https://ridedart.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities.

In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, DART notifies all proposed vendors that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit a proposal in response to this request and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration of an award.

mailto:awaltz@ridedart.com https://ridedart.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

SECTION 1:

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS

IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION

All proposals are subject to the conditions specified herein. Proposals that do not comply with these conditions are subject to rejection. Proposing firms shall include the following information, at a minimum, in their proposal and shall organize their proposal in the same order as the items are listed below.

1.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The proposal shall:

• Contain concise written materials that enable the reviewer to clearly understand the

Proposer’s capabilities and approach to the contract.

• Specifically describe the Proposer’s role in relationship to its subcontractors (if any) and shall describe the interfaces with said subcontractors.

• Reflect a level of understanding of the work required.

1.2. GENERAL FORMAT

• Proposals shall be prepared on 8.5 x 11" format with 1" left margins and 1" top, bottom and right margins. Typing shall be single spaced and no smaller than font size 11.

• Use of 11 x 17" legal format fold out sheets for large tables, charts or diagrams is permissible, but should be limited.

• Promotional or Advertising information will not be accepted.

• Proposals shall have a maximum page number of 20, not including the required forms.

1.3. SUBMITTAL

Proposals must be submitted via DART’s e-procurement system (Bonfire). Proposers must be registered in Bonfire prior to submission.

https://ridedart.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=login

If any questions regarding registration or submission, please contact the DART Issuing Officer awaltz@ridedart.com or 515-283-5033.

If a proposal can’t be submitted through DART’s procurement portal, please contact the DART Issuing Officer immediately at awaltz@ridedart.com or 515-283-5033. All proposals must be received by the deadline, no matter the method of submission.

1.4. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

A. PROPOSAL LETTER

This letter must be completed and executed by an authorized representative of the Proposer. No other letter may replace or be included in addition to the Proposal Letter.

https://ridedart.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=login

A proposal letter transmitting the proposal must be submitted and dated. The letter must indicate that the Proposer agrees to be bound by the proposal without modifications, unless mutually agreed to by DART and the Proposer.

The proposal letter shall also contain the name, title, address, e-mail address, and telephone number(s) of an individual(s) with authority to bind the Proposer during the period in which DART is evaluating proposals. The cover letter shall also identify the legal form of the firm. If the firm is a corporation, the cover letter shall identify in which state the company was incorporated. If a consortium, joint venture or team approach is being proposed, provide the above information for all participating firms.

The cover letter shall be signed by a principal of the firm or other person fully authorized to act on behalf of the firm or team.

Submission Instructions

All responses must include:

• A completed proposal document addressing each evaluation criterion.

• A detailed pricing sheet using the accompanying Excel Pricing Template, which includes quantities for:

• Firewalls

• Core switches

• Access switches

• Wireless access points

• SD-WAN licensing

• Services and deliverables

Vendors must use the provided pricing template for consistency. Additional supporting pricing documents are welcome but must reference the same categories for clarity.

B. FIRM AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS

The proposal shall include a general description of the consultant and his or her background as it relates to the requested services. Specific information shall be submitted and include:

• Information regarding previous experience with similar or related projects. It should contain a brief description of these projects and the consultant’s role.

• Information demonstrating the consultant’s capabilities to perform all aspects of this particular service.

• This project occasionally requires assistance with little to no notice. Please include information on the availability, responsiveness and capacity of the consultant for work on this project.

• References including client name, address, contact person, telephone number, email, project start and end date as well as a project description. References should be for similar or related projects that proposed key staff members for this project have worked.

• If any work is to be subcontracted to another firm(s), the proposal must include the above firm and staff qualification information for each subcontractor, a description of the services the firm performs as well as related projects and references.

C. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Proposal must Indicate acceptance of the terms and conditions in the Contract Provisions (Section 6, including Exhibits A and B) on Attachment 8 Acceptance of Contract Provisions. If a Proposal takes exception to a provision, it must complete Attachment 9 Requested Contract Provisions Exceptions stating the reason for the exception and the specific contract language it proposes to include in place of the provision. Exceptions that materially change these terms and conditions or the requirements of the RFP, may be deemed non-responsive by DART, in its sole discretion, resulting in possible disqualification of the Proposal. DART reserves the right to either award a contract without further negotiation with the successful Proposer or to negotiate contract terms with the selected Proposer if the best interest of DART would be served. It is not DART’s intent to make substantial changes to the outlined Contract Provisions.

D. FORMS

Compliance with these forms is mandatory for contract award:

ATTACHMENT 1 – Acknowledgement of Addenda

ATTACHMENT 2 – Proposal Form

ATTACHMENT 3 – Contractor’s Statement on Subcontractors

ATTACHMENT 4 – Non-Collusion Affidavit

ATTACHMENT 5 – Certification of Primary Contractor Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

ATTACHMENT 6 – Certification of Lower-Tier Participants (Subcontractors) Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusions (if applicable)

ATTACHMENT 7 – Pricing Form

ATTACHMENT 8 - Acceptance of Contract Provisions

ATTACHMENT 9 – Requested Contract Provisions Exceptions (only if requesting)

ATTACHMENT 10 – Certifications of Restrictions on Lobbying

ATTACHMENT 11 – Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

ATTACHMENT 12 – Prohibitions on Certain Telecommunications

SECTION 2:

SCOPE OF WORK

2.1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is the largest public transit agency in Iowa. DART serves 11-member governments, including: Altoona, Ankeny, Bondurant, Clive, Des Moines, Johnston, Pleasant Hill, Unincorporated Polk County, Urbandale, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights. DART operates a family of transportation services in the Greater Des Moines region connecting people to jobs, medical appointments, shopping, entertainment and more. DART maintains a fleet of more than 260 vehicles to provide four different services: Fixed Route (including 20 Local Routes, including new Route 2, 7 Express Routes, 2 Shuttles and 1 Mobility on Demand zone), Caravan vanpools, Paratransit and On Call.

DART receives funding from a variety of sources, including the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the United States Department of Transportation, the State of Iowa, through a transit levy of local property taxes, fares and other sources.

2.2. SCOPE OF WORK

The successful Proposer shall provide the goods and/or services to DART using the Contract in accordance with the specifications as provided in Section 2 Scope of Work. The Proposer shall address each specification in Section 2 Scope of Work and indicate whether or not it will comply with the specification. If the context requires more than a yes or no answer or the section specifically indicates, Proposer shall explain how it will comply with the specification. Proposals must address each specification. Merely repeating the specifications may be considered non-responsive and may disqualify the Proposal.

Proposals must identify any deviations from the specifications of this RFP or specifications the Proposer cannot satisfy. If the Proposer deviates from or cannot satisfy the specifications of this section, DART may reject the Proposal.

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is seeking proposals from qualified vendors for a phased modernization of its network infrastructure. This project will update DART’s network core network, implement a software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) architecture, and begin enabling connectivity for a future third facility.

The selected vendor will provide a turnkey solution that includes:

• Hardware and licensing procurement

• Installation and configuration services

• Documentation of as-built environments

• Staff training and hand-off

• Post-implementation support

This RFP encompasses:

• Phase 1: Upgrade core network components and implement SD-WAN across two existing facilities, with initial deployment for a third future facility.

• Phase 2: Upgrade the access layer at DART’s current primary facility, dependent on expansion timelines.

Note: Phase 2 is not required to be completed alongside Phase 1. However, vendors may propose bundling Phase 2 if it offers implementation or cost advantages.

This RFP also establishes a vendor relationship framework allowing DART to continue working with the selected vendor for up to 10 years for future network modernization needs without requiring a new RFP process. This is not a commitment to multi-year billing or exclusive sourcing, but rather a mechanism for continuity and efficiency as DART's needs evolve. As the new facility becomes fully operational over time, additional infrastructure purchases are expected, presenting a future opportunity for the selected vendor.

Current State

DART currently operates two core facilities, connected via a traditional WAN leveraging a Layer 2 extension and BGP-based failover:

• A current primary facility, which will remain a central hub long-term.

• A current operations facility, which will eventually be decommissioned as a future third facility is built.

DART intends to transition to a Layer 3 network design and implement SD-WAN to increase resiliency, reduce operational complexity, and enable long-term scalability.

Project Phases

Phase 1 – Core Infrastructure & WAN Modernization with Future Site Preparation

• Deploy high-availability (HA) next-generation firewalls at both current facilities.

• Replace core switching infrastructure to support Layer 3 routing and SD-WAN integration.

• Implement SD-WAN architecture with dual 1 Gbps active-active ISP connections per site.

• Remove the existing Layer 2 extension in favor of a fully routed Layer 3 approach.

• Ensure that designs and hardware selections are scalable and compatible with the future third facility.

• Deploy an initial firewall(s), switching, and SD-WAN connectivity for the new facility to establish basic site connectivity.

• Provide complete installation, configuration, documentation, and training services.

Phase 2 – Access Layer Modernization at Current Primary Facility

• Replace access layer switches with standardized, modern models.

• Upgrade wireless access points to meet current performance and coverage needs.

• Review and clean up VLANs, port configurations, uplinks, and related Layer 2 dependencies as needed.

• Deliver complete as-built documentation and support materials.

Vendors may propose bundling Phase 2 with Phase 1 if they can demonstrate efficiency or cost benefits in doing so.

Task Description Target Date Phase 1 Core Upgrade & WAN

Replace firewalls and core switches, implement SD-WAN, enable connectivity at new facility

No later than 5/15/2026

Phase 2: Access Layer

Upgrade access switching and wireless at current primary facility

Shortly after Phase 1 or bundled if viable

Documentation Diagrams, Configuration files, IP schema, and network layout

Provided at closeout of each phase

Training Basic training on firewall, switch, and SD- WAN systems

Prior or during Phase 1 Go- Live

Support Go-Live and post-cutover support, including escalation processes

Effective upon Go-Live

Deliverables

Task Description Target Completion Date

Phase 1: Core Upgrade & WAN

Replace firewalls and core switches, implement SD-WAN, enable connectivity at new facility

No later than 5/15/2026

Phase 2: Access Layer

Upgrade access switching and wireless at current primary facility

Shortly after Phase 1, or bundled if viable

Documentation Diagrams, configuration files, IP schema, and network layout

Provided at close of each phase

Task Description Target Completion Date

Training Basic training on firewall, switch, and SD- WAN systems

Prior or during Phase 1 go-live

Support Go-live and post-cutover support, including escalation processes Effective upon go-live

SECTION 3:

PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND AWARD PROCEDURE

3.1. GENERAL GUIDANCE

DART reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and may select and negotiate with one or more proposers concurrently should they both be deemed equ al, and enter into a Contract with such proposer who is determined, by DART, to provide the services which are in the best interest of DART. DART may agree to such terms and conditions as it may determine to be in its interest.

DART’s evaluation committee reserves the right to request additional information from proposers, to negotiate terms and conditions of the contract, request oral presentations, inspect proposer’s facilities, and/or ask proposers to appear before the evaluation committee to answer questions or clarify points of their proposal.

3.2. EVALUATION CRITERIA

The evaluation criteria for this procurement are:

Proposal Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following factors:

1. Technical Solution – 40 points

• Overall fit of the proposed network design with DART’s goals for scalability, reliability, and future growth

• Appropriateness of firewall, switch, and SD-WAN choices across DCS, DW, and O&M

• Clarity of the proposed architecture and how it supports a phased rollout

2. Operational Simplicity – 25 points

• How easy the solution will be to manage and support internally

• Usability of management tools, visibility, and day-to-day tasks

• Consistency and simplicity in how configurations are handled

3. Implementation Plan – 25 points

• Clear and achievable timeline for each phase

• Plan for coordinating with DART on any planned outages

• Consideration for endpoint changes such as VPN rollout and client updates

4. Vendor Qualifications – 20 points

• Relevant experience with similar projects

• Customer references and certifications

• Ability to support the project through completion and beyond

SECTION 3:

PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND AWARD PROCEDURE

5. Support Services – 15 points

• Warranty and support offerings

• Response and escalation process

• Quality of documentation and knowledge transfer

6. Cost Proposal – 25 points

• Clear and itemized pricing for all hardware, licensing, and services

• Ability to separate pricing by project phase (core upgrades vs. access layer vs.

O&M site)

• Flexibility for phased purchasing and alignment with DART’s budgeting timeline

• Identification of any optional items or bundled savings that could benefit DART long-term

All Respondents will be notified after the Selection Committee has selected the most qualified proposer.

Award of this RFP shall be on the basis of the above-outlined evaluation criteria and awarded to the Proposer whose proposal is judged as providing the best value in meeting the interest of DART and the objectives of the project, in DART’s sole determination.

SECTION 4:

INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

4.1. INTERPRETATION OF RFP DOCUMENTS

No oral interpretations will be made to any firms as to the meaning of specifications or any other contracts documents. All questions pertaining to the terms and conditions or scope of work of this RFP must be sent in writing (mail or e-mail) to the DART Procurement Manager and received by the date specified. Responses to questions may be handled as an addendum if the response would provide clarification to requirements of the proposal. All such addenda shall become part of the contract documents. DART will not be responsible for any other explanation or interpretation of the proposed proposal made or given prior to the award of the contract. The DART Procurement Manager may be unable to respond to questions received after the specified time frame. If no request for clarification is submitted by the Proposer all conditions and requirements contained within are accepted and understood by the Proposer.

4.2. ADDENDUM TO RFP

If it becomes necessary to revise this RFP, any addendums will be posted on the DART website and to or to those having expressed an interest in submitting a proposal.

4.3. TYPE OF CONTRACT

DART intends to award a firm, fixed price contract. The services of the Firm will be based on the Scope of Work as outlined in Section 2 (Scope of Work).

4.4. RIGHTS OF DART IN REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL PROCESS

DART may investigate the qualifications of any Proposer under consideration. DART may require confirmation of information furnished by a Proposer and require additional evidence of qualifications to perform the Services described in this RFP. DART reserves the right to:

• Disqualify any Proposer in accordance with Instruction to Proposers

• Reject any or all of the Proposals, at its discretion

• Remedy errors in the RFP

• Cancel the entire RFP

• Issue subsequent RFP

• Appoint a Selection Committee to review Proposals

• Visit Proposers’ facilities as a part of the evaluation process

• Seek the assistance of outside technical experts to review Proposals

• Approve or disapprove the use of particular Subcontractors and Suppliers

• Establish a short list of Proposers eligible for discussions after review of written Proposals

• Solicit best and final offers (BAFO) from all or some of the Proposers

• Negotiate with any, all or none of the Proposers

• Accept other than the lowest priced Proposal

• Disqualify the Proposal(s) upon evidence of collusion with intent to defraud or other illegal practices on the part of the Proposer(s)

• Waive any informalities or irregularities in any Proposal, to the extent permitted by law.

This RFP does not commit DART to enter into a Contract.

4.5. DART PROTEST PROCEDURES

A. Who May Protest or Appeal. Any Proposer showing a substantial economic interest in the award of a contract under this procurement who claims to be aggrieved in connection with the solicitation or proposed award of a contract under this procurement may protest to DART in accordance with the procedures set forth herein.

B. Timing of Protest. A protest must be submitted by an Interested Party no later than 7 business days prior to the date and time designated for submittal of bids or proposals or within 5 business days after the allegedly aggrieved person or party is notified of contract award. All protest must be in writing and shall contain the following:

• the procurement title and/or number under which the protest is made;

• the name and address of the allegedly aggrieved party;

• a detailed description of the specific grounds for the protest and all supporting documentation;

• the specific ruling or relief requested; and

• the written protest shall be addressed to DART Procurement Manager, Des Moines

Area Regional Transit Authority, 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.

C. Evaluation of Protests. A protest decision should ordinarily be written and published within ten (10) working days of receipt of the protest. The Procurement Manager may extend the response period if additional time is required to gather and evaluate information necessary for the decision or for other good cause.

Upon receipt of a protest, the Procurement Manager shall notify parties involved in the procurement as identified above, and such DART personnel or others as may be appropriate or necessary to determine the validity of the protest. A notice of the receipt of a protest pertaining to a federally participating purchase shall be sent to the FTA regional office, per FTA Circular 4220.1F, Chapter VII, Sec. 1.a(2). Copies of the protest submittal, or portions thereof, may be provided to the notified parties as appropriate.

The Procurement Manager may request additional written information from the protestor or other parties, as necessary to determine the validity of the protest. A formal or informal hearing may be held. If a formal hearing is held, testimony shall be given under oath and a transcript or electronic recording of the proceeding shall be made; the transcript or recording shall be provided to the protestor and made part of the protest record.

The Procurement Manager shall redact from any submission under the protest process information which has been identified as proprietary, and which, in his/her judgment, is protected from disclosure under the Iowa Freedom of Information Act prior to furnishing such submission to any other party, unless the person furnishing the information consents, in writing, to distribution of the information to other interested parties.

The Procurement Manager will consult DART Legal Counsel prior to issuing a decision regarding the protest.

D. Response to Protest. Upon receipt of a timely written protest, the Procurement

Manager will consider the protest in accordance with established procedures and promptly issue a written decision stating the reasons for the action taken and informing the allegedly aggrieved person of his/her right to appeal the decision to the DART CEO (Chief Executive Officer).

The decision document will contain four parts:

• Summary – Describes briefly the protesting party, the solicitation involved, the issue(s) raised, and the decision.

• Background – Describes in more detail the history of the solicitation and the procurement events leading to the protest, the date the protest was received, and the process by which it was evaluated.

• Discussion – Identifies the issue or issues raised by the protestor, and the factors considered in reaching a decision, and the rationale for the decision.

• Determination – States the decision and any remedy or subsequent action, e.g.

cancellation of the procurement, resulting from it.

The decision made by the Procurement Manager shall be final and conclusive unless appealed in writing to the CEO within 5 business days of receipt by the Protestor. The CEO will consider the appeal and promptly issue a written decision, which shall be final and conclusive.

A Protestor may not commence litigation prior to exhausting all administrative remedies. Failure to exhaust all administrative remedies shall constitute an absolute waiver of the protestor's right, if any, to commence litigation.

Failure to comply with these protests and appeal requirements will render a protest or an appeal untimely or inadequate and may result in its rejection by DART.

After the exhaustion of all administrative remedies, the protestor shall have 10 calendar days to commence litigation. Failure to commence litigation within this limitation shall constitute an absolute waiver of the protestor's right.

E. Record of Protest. Upon receipt of a protest involving FTA funded contracts, FTA shall be notified, and shall be kept informed of the status of the protest until resolved.

4.6. PRICES, TERMS AND PAYMENT

Firm prices shall be proposed and must include all ancillary costs as well as the following:

• Taxes: DART does not pay federal excise and sales taxes or state excise and use taxes on direct purchases.

• Mistakes: Proposers are expected to examine the conditions, scope of work, proposal prices, extensions, specifications and all instructions pertaining to the request for proposal. Failure to do so will be at the Proposers risk.

• Invoicing and Payment: Charges rendered from the potential contractor to DART shall be due and payable on terms of Net 30 days after proper and complete billing is received from DART.

4.7. DURATION OF OFFER

All proposals shall remain in effect for a minimum of one hundred eighty (180) days from the proposal opening date or scheduled date for receipt of proposals. Proposers that allow less than one hundred eighty (180) days for acceptance by DART may be considered non-responsive and will be rejected.

4.8. TAX EXEMPTION

DART is exempt from payment of all Federal, State, and local taxes in connection with this Project. Said taxes shall not be included in the proposal or proposal prices. DART will provide necessary tax exemption certificates. This provision does not relieve the Proposer from the responsibility to pay all applicable taxes for goods, services, and labor acquired in the performance of this Project.

4.9. LATE PROPOSALS OR WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS

Any proposal received at the DART offices designated in the solicitation after the time specified for receipt of proposals will not be considered and will be returned to the proposer unopened.

A proposal may be withdrawn in person by the proposer or their authorized representative, provided their identity is made known and a receipt is signed for the proposal, and only if the withdrawal is made prior to the time specified for receipt of proposals.

4.10. QUALIFICATIONS FOR AWARD

Award of this contract shall be made to the proposal which is responsive in all respects to these procurement requirements, and where the Proposer is determined to be a responsible Proposer, a determination that shall be made solely at the discretion of DART.

The Proposer affirms and declares:

• The proposer has the capacity to do business within the State of Iowa.

• The proposer has the capability to assure completion of the required services within the time specified under this contract.

• The proposer presently has the necessary facilities, financial resources and licenses to complete the contract in a satisfactory manner and within the required time.

• The proposer is of lawful age and that no other person, firm or corporation has any interest in this proposal or the contract proposed to be entered into.

• The proposer is not in arrears to the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority upon debt or contract and is not defaulting as surety or otherwise, upon any obligation to the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority.

• No member, officer, or employee of DART during his tenure or for two years thereafter shall have any interest, direct or indirect, in this contract or the proceeds thereof.

• To be “qualified” by DART, the proposer must have all State and Local licenses as legally required that are necessary to perform and complete the work as called for herein.

• The proposer is not on the Comptroller General’s list of ineligible consultants.

4.11. WITHHOLDING AWARD

This solicitation for proposals does not commit DART to award a contract, pay any costs incurred in preparation of proposal or proposals in response to this solicitation, or to procure or contract for goods or services. Proposer shall be responsible for all costs incurred as part of their participation in the pre-award process.

4.12. PROPOSAL ACCEPTANCE, REJECTION AND/OR POSTPONEMENT

DART reserves the right to postpone, accept, or reject any and all proposals in whole or in part, on such basis as the DART Commission deems to be in its best interest to do so, subject to the rules and regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Any person, firm, corporation, Joint Venture/partnership, or other interested party that has been compensated by DART or a consultant engaged by DART for assistance in preparing the RFP Documents and/or estimate shall be considered to have gained an unfair competitive advantage in proposing and shall be precluded from submitting a Proposal in response to the RFP.

Any person, firm, corporation, Joint Venture/partnership, or other interested party that has continued discussions regarding this RFP with DART or consultant staff (with the exception of the Procurement Department regarding DBE informational requests or informational requests on the Lobbying Program) after the RFP is issued may be considered to have gained an unfair competitive advantage in proposing and may be precluded from submitting a Proposal in response to the RFP.

4.13. DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION

Proposers shall complete and submit as part of their proposal, the Certification of Primary Contractor Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters for all projects when the total aggregate value of the contract exceeds $100,000. The proposer shall also submit a list of subcontracts and subcontractors that will have a financial interest in this Project that exceeds $25,000 or will have a critical influence on or a substantive control over the Project. A Certification Of Lower-Tier Participants Regarding Debarment, Suspension, And Other Ineligibility And Voluntary Exclusions shall be submitted by the proposer to DART for each listed subcontractor prior to contract award.

During the term of the Contract the successful proposer will be required to immediately notify DART of 1) any potential subcontractor that is subject to this provision and to submit the appropriate certification prior to award of a subcontract, 2) any information that its certification or certification of its subcontractors was erroneous when submitted, 3) any information that certifications have become erroneous by reason of changed circumstances.

4.14. DBE PARTICIPATION

The Contractor, Sub-recipient, or Subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this (contract or agreement).

The requirements of 49 CFR Part 26 and the recipient’s U.S. DOT-approved Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program are incorporated in this (contract or agreement) by reference. In connection with the performance of this contract, the contractor will cooperate with DART in meeting its DBE goal and shall have the maximum practical opportunity to compete for subcontract work under this contract. The current DART annual DBE goal is 0.53 percent. It is the policy of DART that DBE’s shall have the maximum practicable opportunity to participate in DART contracts. In order to insure that a fair proportion of the purchases and contracts are placed with DBE’s, the bidder agrees to take affirmative action to the greatest extent practicable including good faith effort to identify qualified DBE firms for supplies and services to this bid, if applicable. Failure by the Contractor, sub-recipient, or subcontractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of the contract, agreement or Purchase Order, which may result in the termination of this (contract or agreement) or such other remedy as DART deems appropriate.

DART has not set a specific DBE goal for this RFP.

4.15. EXCLUSIONARY OR DISCRIMINATORY SPECIFICATIONS

DART agrees that it will comply with the requirements of 49 U.S.C. Section 5323(h)(2) by refraining from using any federal assistance awarded by the Federal Transit Administration to support procurements using exclusionary or discriminatory specifications. DART further agrees to refrain from using state or local geographic preferences, except those expressly mandated or encouraged by federal statute.

4.16. COLLUSION

The Proposer, by affixing his signature to the Certification Form, agrees to the following:

"Proposer certifies that their proposal is made without previous understanding, agreement, or connections with any person, firm, or corporation making a proposal for the same items and is in all respects fair, without outside control, collusion, fraud, or otherwise illegal action".

4.17. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Federal, state, county and local laws and ordinances, rules and regulations shall govern submittal and evaluation of proposals received and shall govern claims and disputes between Proposer(s) and DART by and through its officers, employees, authorized representatives, or any person, natural or otherwise. Lack of knowledge by Proposer is not a cognizable defense against legal effects.

4.18. EXCEPTIONS

Proposer is advised that if it wishes to take exception to any of the terms contained in this RFP it must identify the term and the exception in its response to the procurement. Failure to do so may lead DART to declare any such term non-negotiable. Consultant’s desire to take exception to a non-negotiable term will not disqualify it from consideration for award.

SECTION 5:

ATTACHMENTS

IT NETWORK MODERNIZATION PROJECT

ATTACHMENT 1 – Acknowledgement of Addenda

ATTACHMENT 2 – Proposal Form

ATTACHMENT 3 – Contractor’s Statement On Sub-Contractors

ATTACHMENT 4 – Non-Collusion Affidavit

ATTACHMENT 5 – Certification of Primary Contractor Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

ATTACHMENT 6 – Certification of Lower-Tier Participants (Subcontractors) Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion

ATTACHMENT 7 – Pricing Form

ATTACHMENT 8 - Acceptance of Contract Provisions

ATTACHMENT 9 – Requested Contract Provisions Exceptions (only if requesting)

ATTACHMENT 10 - Certification of Restrictions on Lobbying

ATTACHMENT 11 - Disclosure of Lobbying Activities ATTACHMENT 12 – Affidavit Covered Telecommunications Equipment or

Services

ATTACHMENT 1

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ADDENDA

The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the following addenda to the Documents.

(Give number and date of each)

Addendum Number __________ Dated __________

Addendum Number __________ Dated __________

Addendum Number __________ Dated __________

Addendum Number __________ Dated __________

Addendum Number __________ Dated __________

Failure to acknowledge receipt of all addenda may cause the proposal to be considered non‐responsive to this Request for Proposal, which will require rejection of the proposal.

Signature

Title

Date

ATTACHMENT 2

PROPOSAL FORM

TO: Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority 1100 DART Way Des Moines, Iowa 50309

The undersigned hereby agrees to furnish the services in accordance with the scope of work herein with the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, which have been carefully examined and attached hereto.

Contractor’s Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip Code:

Age of Firm (years):_____________ Contractor Federal I.D. #:

Annual Gross Receipts of the Firm:

Telephone #: E-Mail:

Is the Firm Certified by the State of Iowa as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise:

Person to Contact after Award:

I Hereby Agree To Abide By All Conditions Of This Proposal and Certify That I Am Authorized To Sign This Proposal For The Proposer.

Print Authorized Name:

Title:

Authorized Signature (Written):

ATTACHMENT 3

CONTRACTOR’S STATEMENT ON SUB-CONTRACTORS

1. There are NO sub-Contractors associated with this proposal.

Authorized Signee:

Printed Name:

Title: Date:

For (Company):

OR

2. Listed below are sub-Contractors associated with this proposal. Additional sheets are attached as required. I _____________________________have also attached appropriate Disadvantage Business Certifications.

Name of Company:

Contact Person:

Telephone #:

E-mail:

Name of Company:

Contact Person:

Telephone #:

ATTACHMENT 4

NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

STATE OF ________________________________

COUNTY OF ______________________________

_________________________________________, being first duly sworn, on Name his/her oath says he is ___________________________________ of__________________________

Title Name of Firm and not a sham or collusive proposal, or made in the interest of or on behalf of any collusive proposal, or made in the interest of or on behalf of any person not herein named; and he/she further states that said proposer has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other proposer for this work to put in a sham proposal, or any other person or corporation to refrain from proposing; and that said proposer has not in any matter sought by collusion to secure to self-advantage over any other proposer or proposers.

(SIGN HERE): ___________________________________

County ____________________________ In and for the State of

Subscribed and Sworn to before me this ___ day of ________________, 20____

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: _____________________

ATTACHMENT 5

CERTIFICATION OF CONTRACTOR REGARDING DEBARMENT,

SUSPENSION AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS

The undersigned, an authorized official of the Proposer stated below, certifies to the best of its knowledge and belief, that it and its principals:

1. Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any federal department or agency;

2. Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (federal, state or local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of federal or state antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property;

3. Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (federal, state, or local) with commission of any of these offenses enumerated in paragraph (2) of this certification; and

4. Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal had one or more public transactions (federal, state, or local) terminated for cause or default.

(If the undersigned is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such official shall attach an explanation to this proposal).

THE UNDERSIGNED CERTIFIES OR AFFIRMS THE TRUTHFULNESS AND ACCURACY OF THE CONTENTS OF

THE STATEMENTS SUBMITTED ON OR WITH THIS CERTIFICATION AND UNDERSTANDS THAT THE

PROVISIONS OF 31 U.S.C. SECTIONS 3801 ET SEQ. ARE APPLICABLE THERETO.

Name of Proposer

Address

City, State, Zip

Signature of Authorized Official

Title of Official

Telephone Date

Notary Public Name (Printed)

Notary Public Signature County of Expiration Date

ATTACHMENT 6

CERTIFICATION OF LOWER‐TIER PARTICIPANTS (SUBCONTRACTORS) REGARDING

DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION, AND OTHER INELIGIBILITY AND VOLUNTARY EXCLUSION

The Undersigned Lower Tier Participant (Subcontractor to the Primary Contractor), certifies, by submission of this proposal, that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any Federal department or agency. If the above named Lower Tier Participant (Subcontractor) is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, such participant shall attach an explanation to this proposal.

The Undersigned Lower‐Tier Participant (Subcontractor), certifies or affirms the truthfulness and accuracy of the contents of the statements submitted on or with this certification and understands that the provisions of 31. U.S.C. Sections 3801 et seq.

are applicable thereto.

Name of Proposer

Address

City, State, Zip

Signature of Authorized Official

Title of Official

Telephone Date

Notary Public Name (Printed)

NOTICE TO PROPOSER: THIS CERTIFICATION SHALL BE COMPLETED BY ALL

SUBCONTRACTORS WHICH WILL HAVE A FINANCIAL INTEREST IN THIS PROJECT WHICH

EXCEEDS $25,000 OR SUBCONTRACTORS WHICH WILL HAVE A CRITICAL INFLUENCE ON OR

A SUBSTANTIVE CONTROL OVER THE PROJECT.

ATTACHMENT 7

PRICING PROPOSAL

See Excel sheet attached.

ATTACHMENT 8

ACCEPTANCE OF CONTRACT PROVISIONS

FROM SECTION 6 INCLUDING EXHIBITS A AND B

The undersigned, an authorized official of the Proposer stated below, certifies (check box):

☐acceptance of all contract provisions from Section 6 including Exhibit A and Exhibit B (add Exhibit C if SaaS).

or

☐request exceptions to contract provisions and have completed Attachment 9 Requested Contract Provisions Exceptions.

Name of Proposer

Address

City, State, Zip

Signature of Authorized Official

Title of Official

Telephone Date

Notary Public Name (Printed)

ATTACHMENT 9

REQUESTED CONTRACT PROVISIONS EXCEPTIONS

Only complete if requesting exceptions to contract provisions from Section 6 including Exhibit A and Exhibit B (add rows as needed)

Contract Provision Section 6 Number or Exhibit Section

Reason for Exception Proposed Specific Contract Language to Replace Provision

ATTACHMENT 10

CERTIFICATION OF RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING

The undersigned (contractor) certifies, to the best of his/her knowledge and belief, that:

1. No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

2. If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for making lobbying contacts to an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying", in accordance with its instruction as amended by government-wide guidance for new restrictions on lobbying 61 Fed. Reg. 1413 (1/19/96).

3. The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all sub awards at all tiers (including subcontracts, sub grants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.

This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certificate is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by 31 USC 1352. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure.

The Contractor, , certifies or affirms the truthfulness and accuracy of each statement of its certification and disclosure, if any. In addition, the Contractor understands and agrees that the provisions of 31 USC 3801, et. seq., apply to this certification and disclosure, if any.

Date:

Company:

Name:

Signature:

Title:

ATTACHMENT 11

DISCLOSURE OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES

Complete this form to disclose lobbying activities pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 1352

ATTACHMENT 12

Affidavit Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services

State of __________________

County of______________________

The undersigned, _______________________________, being duly sworn, states the following:

After conducting a reasonable inquiry, I confirm that ___________________________________ is in compliance with the requirements outlined in FAR 52.204-26 as it relates to Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services.

Specifically______________________________ represents the following:

1. It does not provide telecommunications equipment or services as part of its offered products or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract, or other contractual instrument.

2. It does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services.

Dated as of _________________

Signature____________________________ Name_______________________________ Title_________________________________

Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____ day of _____, 20____

Notary Public in and for said County and State

SECTION 6:

CONTRACT PROVISIONS

FY##-RFP-00#

CONTRACT [DRAFT]

FOR (blank) SERVICES

This CONTRACT FOR (blank) SERVICES (the “Contract”) is made as of ___________________________________ (the “Effective Date”) by and between Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, an entity created pursuant to Chapter 28E of the Iowa Code (“DART”), whose address is 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309, and ____________________, a ________________, whose address is __________________ (“Contractor”).

RECITALS

A. Contractor, for and in consideration of the Contract Price as hereinafter specified, hereby covenants and agrees to commence and complete work for (blank) Services for DART (the “Services”) in accordance with the terms of this Contract;

B. DART desires to obtain goods and/or services provided by Contractor (collectively, “Services”) according to the requirements set forth in the Request for Proposal (the “Solicitation”) and as further described in this Contract;

C. Contractor has submitted a bid or response in connection with the Solicitation (the “Response”), which DART has selected for the Project;

D. Contractor represents and warrants to DART that Contractor is qualified and duly licensed to furnish the Services in Iowa;

E. Contractor warrants that all representations made by Contractor in the Response remain valid, accurate, and binding; and

F. Contractor desires to render the Services and meet the obligations set forth in the Contract Documents (defined below).

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises herein and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereby agree as follows:

AGREEMENT

1. DEFINITIONS. Terms not defined in the Contract Documents shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in applicable federal, state or local laws and regulations. In the event there is a conflict between any defined terms, DART’s reasonable interpretation of said term shall govern.

2. CONTRACT DOCUMENTS. For the purposes of this Contract, the following documents are collectively referred to herein as the “Contract Documents”:

a. The third-party contracting requirements located herein;

b. Written change orders or amendments to this Contract which have been mutually agreed and executed by both parties;

c. This Contract together with all Exhibits and attachments hereto; and

d. The Solicitation.

In the event of a conflict between the terms of any of the documents that constitute the Contract Documents, the order of precedence of such documents shall be in descending order starting from (a). Unless specifically incorporated as an Exhibit or attachment hereto, Contractor’s Response shall not constitute part of the Contract Documents. Any inclusion of the Response in an Exhibit or attachment hereto shall be for purposes of scope of work reference only, and any terms or provisions contained in the Response shall not be applicable and shall not constitute part of the Contract Documents.

3. COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW; LICENSES AND PERMITS; FEDERAL CLAUSES;

STATE CERTIFICATIONS; FEDERAL CERTIFICATIONS. Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, rules and/or regulations that in any manner relate to or affect the Services. Contractor must also maintain any and all appropriate licenses and permits to conduct business in DART’s service territory and the state of Iowa. Contractor shall bind its Subcontractors to the obligations of this provision.

Without limiting the foregoing, as applicable, Contractor agrees to abide by the provisions of the federal clauses (the “Federal Clauses”) set forth in [Exhibit X] attached hereto and made a part hereof. Further, Contractor agrees to execute all state and federal certifications (the “State and Federal Certifications”) set forth in [Exhibit X] attached hereto and made a part hereof, as applicable to Contractor and its performance hereunder. Contractor shall at all times be responsible for ensuring that it is in compliance with the most current version of the Federal Clauses and State and Federal Certifications.

4. NON-EXCLUSIVE CONTRACT. This is a non-exclusive contract. Contractor acknowledges and agrees that DART is not obligated to utilize Contractor for all of DART’s needs for procurement goods and/or services which are the same or similar to the type…