2-20260407 - ICB Consulting RFP.pdf

Request for Proposals for

Evaluation of Existing and Proposed Intercity Bus

Routes, Ridership, and Feasibility

Solicitation:

20260407 - ICB Consulting RFP

Issue Date: April 21, 2026 Questions Due: 2:00 PM May 11, 2026 Proposals Due: 2:00 May 25, 2026 Possible Interviews: Week of June 1, 2026 Contract Start Date: July 1, 2026

Susquehanna Regional

Transportation Authority dba rabbittransit

20260407 - ICB Consulting RFP DRAFT

Request for Proposals 20260407 - ICB Consulting RFP

The Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA), dba rabbittransit is requesting Proposals for the services described as follows. The Authority will receive proposals related to the necessary evaluation of the current Inter City Bus (ICB) routes. The awarded Contractor shall provide all labor, expertise, materials, and services required as set forth in the Specifications section of the Request for

Proposal (RFP). Please review the complete Solicitation to determine if your services are suitable.

Proposers are invited to submit responses describing your services believed to satisfy SRTA’s specialized needs described within this Solicitation. SRTA/rabbittransit serves and maintains locations in Adams, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Harrisburg City, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, Union and York Counties. This solicitation and resulting Contract will address the all SRTA administered routes throughout Pennsylvania and possible additional routes connecting Philadelphia, Reading, and

Harrisburg.

All proposals and contracts are subject to all applicable Commonwealth and Federal laws and to a financial assistance contract between the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation (PennDOT).

All costs incurred by Proposers in the development of their proposals in responding to this RFP are the sole responsibility of the Proposers. No such costs will be reimbursed by the Agency. Furthermore, Proposers must not include such costs as part of their cost proposals to perform any work described in this RFP.

Please obtain the full specification by sending visiting PennBid.net All materials, questions, addenda, and submissions will be addressed via the PennBid.net platform.

Due:

2:00 PM May 25, 2026

SRTA hereby notifies all proposers that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this RFP advertisement or solicitation, disadvantaged business enterprises (DBE’s) will be afforded full opportunity to submit proposals in response and will not be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex or national origin in consideration for an award. The Authority reserves the right to postpone, accept or reject any and all proposals and to waive any informality in the RFP process as the Authority deems in its own best interest. Proposals received after the specified closing time will be considered late proposals and will not be evaluated for award. Misdirected submittals will not be accepted.

Solicitation Contents

1. General Information

1.1 Obtaining RFP Documents 8

1.2 Reserved 8

1.3 Questions, Clarifications, and Interpretation 8

1.4 Proposal Submissions 8

1.5 Proprietary Information 9

1.6 Proposal Forms 9

1.7 Authorized Signature 9

1.8 Proposal Withdrawal 9

1.9 Conditional Proposal 10

1.10 Opening, Requirements, and Evaluation of Proposals 10

1.11 Contract 11

1.12 Invoices and Payment 11

1.13 Force Majeure 12

1.14 Contract Breaches and Dispute Resolution 12

1.15 Subcontracts 13

1.16 Liability 13

1.17 Postponement and Cancellation 13

1.18 Changes and Addendum 13

1.19 Insurance 13

1.20 Jurisdiction and Venue 15

1.21 Reservation of Governmental Immunity 15

1.22 Confidentiality, Data Ownership, and Use of Materials 15

1.23 Contract Execution Requirement 16

1.24 Indemnification 16

2 Bid Protests

2.1 Bid Protest Procedures 19

2.2 Definitions Related to Protests 19

2.3 Types of Protests and Time Limits 19

2.4 Content of Protest 19

2.5 Action by the Authority 19

2.6 Confidentiality of Protest 20

2.7 Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Involvement 20

3 Specifications

3.1 General Scope 22

3.2 Removal of Existing Furniture Systems 22

3.3 Evaluation and Relocation of Reusable Components 22

3.4 Workstation Configuration Requirements 22

3.5 Desk Configuration Requirements 22

3.6 Cubicle Layout and Quantity 23

3.7 Specialized Cubicle Requirement – York Office 23

3.8 Cubicle System Quality and Performance 23

3.9 Accessibility and Circulation 23

3.10 Design Submittals 24

3.11 Proposer Interviews and Material Samples 25

3.12 Finish and Material Approval 25

3.13 Installation Plan 25

3.14 Field Verification of Dimensions 25

3.15 Delivery, Storage, and Protection of Materials 25

3.16 Warranty 25

3.17 Manuals and Documentation 26

4 Third Party Contract Requirements

4.1 Access to Records and Reports 28

4.2 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 28

4.3 Build/Buy America 28

4.4 Restrictions on Lobbying 28

4.5 Reserved 30

4.6 Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity 30

4.7 Clean Air Act and Federal Water Pollution Control Act 31

4.8 National Architecture Conformance With ITS 31

4.9 Debarment and Suspension 31

4.10 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) 32

4.11 Energy Conservation 32

4.12 Equal Employment Opportunity 32

4.13 Notice to Third Party Participants 33

4.14 Incorporation of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Terms 33

4.15 No Government Obligation to Third Parties 33

4.16 Notification to FTA Regarding Legal Matters 34

4.17 Patent Rights and Rights in Data 34

4.18 Solid Wastes 35

4.19 Program Fraud and False or Fraudulent Statements and Related Acts 35

4.20 Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance

Services or Equipment

4.21 Prompt Payment 36

4.22 Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles 36

4.23 Termination 37

4.24 Violation and Breach of Contract 39

4.25 Trafficking In Persons 39

4.26 Federal Tax Liability and Recent Felony Convictions 39

4.27 Severability 40

4.28 Assignability 40

5. Required Forms and Certifications

5.1 Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda 42

5.2 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

5.3 Certification of Lower-Tier Participants Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion

5.4 Non-Collusion Affidavit 45

5.5 Commonwealth Non-Discrimination Clause 46

5.6 Disadvantaged Business Participation 48

5.7 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification 49

5.8 Subcontractor Good Faith Checklist 50

5.9 Prohibited Telecommunications Equipment 51

5.10 Notice of Federal Requirements 52

5.11 Certification of Restrictions on Lobbying 55

6. Appendix

6.1 20260407 - ICB Consulting Pricing Form Instructions 57

6.2 20260407 - ICB Consulting Price Form 58

6.3 20260407 - ICB Consulting References 60

6.4 20260407 - ICB Consulting Notes 61

6.5 20260407 - ICB Consulting Score Sheet 62 End of Solicitation 64

Intentionally Blank

1. General Information

1.1 Obtaining RFP Documents

Interested parties may receive the Request for Proposal (RFP) documents by visiting PennBid.net. All addenda, communication, and submissions will be communicated via PennBid.net Please note: Any interested bidder is expected to thoroughly read and understand the information contained within this

RFP.

1.2 Reserved

1.3 Questions, Clarifications, and Interpretation Proposal questions will be accepted in writing on the PennBid.net platform until 2:00 PM prevailing time on May 11, 2026. No telephone calls will be accepted for questions or clarifications. Interested bidders shall not make any effort to contact any Authority employees, other than the Procurement Analyst, or attempt to make contact with any persons engaged in maintenance, repair, or service of any Authority property. Any such attempts may result in the disqualification of such bidder. If any person contemplating submitting a bid is in doubt as to the true meaning of any provision or part of this Solicitation, or finds discrepancies in, or omissions from such documents questions may be submitted to Allen Hollenbach. These requests for clarification, interpretation, or correction thereof need to be submitted in writing by 2:00 PM prevailing on May 11, 2026. The person submitting the request will be responsible for its prompt delivery. Any interpretation or correction of the Solicitation will be made only by addendum and will be delivered to each person receiving a set of such documents via email. The Authority will not be responsible for any other explanation or interpretation of the Solicitation. All inquiries regarding the contents and requirements of this RFP should be in writing and submitted via the PennBid.net platform.

1.4 Proposal Submissions

Proposer shall submit their Technical Proposal, signed Price Proposal, the Excel File, “20260407 - ICB Consulting Pricing Form,” and Signed PDF Required Documents by the date due. The Proposals shall be submitted via the PennBid.net platform no later than 2:00 PM prevailing time on May 25, 2026.

1.4.1 Proposer Compliance: Proposals must be submitted on the provided forms contained within this Solicitation. Proposals submitted in any other form or on any other document may not receive consideration. All documents contained within the proposal packet must be completed, signed and returned to SRTA by the designated date and time and shall include: Section 5, titled “Required Forms and Certifications.”

1.4.2 Any submittal received after the noted date and time will be deemed non-responsive and rejected. Except for unforeseen circumstances that could warrant a change in the deadline by the Authority for all respondents, requests for extensions of the closing time, and date will not be granted. Proposals received after the time and date specified will not be considered and any proposal received after the scheduled closing time shall be returned to the proposer unopened.

1.4.3 No Obligation on the part of SRTA/rabbittransit or agents: IF PROPOSALS ARE SENT BY

MAIL OR ANY OTHER MEANS, THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR ON TIME DELIVERY TO SRTA

IS WHOLLY UPON THE PROPOSER.

1.4.4 Understanding: By submitting a proposal, each proposer will be deemed to have certified to SRTA that the proposer has fully investigated and become completely familiar with the Solicitation requirements, conditions throughout SRTA’s Solicitation and applicable local, state, federal laws, and regulations relating to this procurement. The Authority will not consider claims for additional compensation based upon the proposer's lack of knowledge of such documents, statutes, regulations, resolutions, or conditions. Occasions may arise that require clarification of Contract Documents. Proposer shall rely only on written Addenda provided by SRTA when submitting or revising proposals. In no event should a prospective proposer submit a proposal based upon an oral interpretation of the Solicitation by any SRTA staff or by any other firm or individual not associated with the Authority. In addition, vendors are required to state exactly what they intend to furnish to SRTA via this Solicitation and must indicate any variances to the terms, conditions, and specifications of this Solicitation no matter how slight. If variations are not stated in the vendor’s offer, it shall be inferred that the vendor’s offer fully complies with all conditions identified in this Solicitation.

1.4.5 Schedule:

Issue Date: April 21, 2026 Questions Due: 2:00 PM May 11, 2026 Proposals Due: 2:00 May 25, 2026 Possible Interviews: Week of June 1, 2026 Contract Start Date: July 1, 2026

1.4.6 Uploads: Where individual files are required within PennBid, Proposers shall upload separate files. Each line within the “Requested Information” tab should receive a Proposer file.

1.5 Proprietary Information

Any information contained in the Proposal that the Proposer considers proprietary must be clearly identified as such. The Authority will respect requests for non-disclosure of proprietary information to the extent that information so restricted conforms to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Pennsylvania Sunshine Laws

1.6 Proposal Forms

All pricing must be submitted on the forms provided, contained on the associated Excel file, and must contain all specified items. Incomplete Proposals submitted in any other form will be considered non-responsive and will be rejected. Please be sure to use the Excel file, “20260407 - ICB Consulting Quote Form” to submit official Proposal Pricing, References, Notes, and Instructions. Additionally Section 5 forms must be completed and returned. Please do not return the solicitation document.

Item Number Description

5.1 Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda

5.2 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

5.3 Certification of Lower-Tier Participants Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion

5.4 Non-Collusion Affidavit

5.5 Commonwealth Non-Discrimination Clause

5.6 Disadvantaged Business Participation

5.7 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification

5.8 Subcontractor Good Faith Checklist

5.9 Prohibited Telecommunications Equipment

5.10 Notice of Federal Requirements

5.11 Certification of Restrictions On Lobbying

1.7 Authorized Signature

The proposal shall be signed by an official authorized to bind the offer, and it shall contain a statement to the effect that the proposal is firm for a period of at least One-hundred, Twenty (120) days from the closing date for the submission of proposals.

1.8 Proposal Withdrawal

All Proposals shall be valid for One-hundred, twenty (120) days from the closing date for the submission of proposals. Prior to the date and time Proposals are due the Proposal may be modified or withdrawn by the Bidder’s authorized representative in person, or by written notice. If Proposals are modified or withdrawn in person, the authorized representative shall make his identity known and shall sign a receipt for the Proposal. Written notices shall be addressed to: Allen Hollenbach, Procurement Analyst, SRTA 415 Zarfoss Drive, York Pennsylvania, 17404 no later than the exact due date and time.

1.9 Conditional Proposal

Conditional Proposal, or those which take exception to the specifications, will be considered non-responsive and will be rejected.

1.10 Opening, Requirements, and Evaluation of Proposals

Proposals will be evaluated by SRTA to determine which Proposal, if any, should be accepted in the best interest of the organization. The Authority at its sole discretion will reserve the right to accept or reject Proposals submitted and to waive any informalities and minor irregularities and to request additional information required to fully evaluate a Proposal. The Technical Proposal shall be clear, thorough, and meet the terms as specified herein, leaving no ambiguity in terms of provided services, hardware, software capabilities, and Proposer experience. The Pricing Form shall be completed similarly without question or ambiguity in terms of offerings and costs. Please use the “Notes” sheet within the file to add any additional clarity necessary.

1.10.1 Opening of Proposals: Received Proposals will not be publicly opened. The Proposer shall submit one (1) original copy of their Technical Proposal, signed copy Pricing forms, and required documents, PDF and the Excel file, “20260407 - ICB Consulting Pricing Sheet” via the PennBid platform.

1.10.3 Evaluation Committee: An Evaluation Committee composed of Planning and Operations staff will evaluate each proposal for content and conformity, consistent with the evaluation criteria. The Proposer shall provide their Technical Proposal for evaluation along with the signed pricing forms and required documents outlined in Section 5. The complete technical proposal along with signed pricing forms and the documents in Section 5 should be submitted electronically on a PennBid.net. The electronic file shall also include the Excel file, titled “20260407 - ICB Consulting Pricing Sheet.”

1.10.4 Scoring: The Evaluation Committee will review aspects of the Proposal as detailed in the Scoring Sheet in Appendix 6.7. Maximum scores are noted for each criteria segment.

The highest scoring Proposal will be further evaluated based on pricing. A competitive set will be established based on Proposal scores. The competitive set of Proposers may be invited for interviews or to provide a best and final offer (BAFO) as described in Item 1.11.6.

1.10.5 Minimum Proposal Requirements:

a. Letter of Introduction: A signed Letter of Introduction, on company letterhead, introducing the firm and summarizing the firm’s qualifications. It should clearly state the firm’s understanding of the requirements under this RFP and highlight any unique Proposer qualifications.

b. Professional and Technical Expertise: Each Contractor must provide a brief description of its company, including the date established, and the organization’s experience and history implementing solutions for routes or transportation options similar in size, scope, and nature to SRTA’s operation.

c. Assigned Personnel: Each Contractor must provide a brief description of key personnel who will be assigned to care for this Contract. This shall include qualifications and experience. This shall also describe the term of engagement for each individual through implementation and on-going support.

d. Insurance: Proposer shall provide proof and aver that the organization will have means sufficient to obtain insurance as described within Section 1.19.

1.10.6 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise:

Though not a requirement and will not disqualify a firm or earn additional scoring points, please identify any DBE participation in the proposal.

1.10.7 Price Proposal: Please complete the sheets within the Excel file titled, “20260407 - ICB Consulting Pricing Form.” Please print, sign, and return each component of this file. The original, hard copies shall be submitted with the technical proposal. The completed Excel file shall be returned on a USB drive along with the signed PDF version of each sheet.

1.10.8 Proposal Layout: Proposals shall follow the format as outlined within this solicitation.

Please make clear supply intention. For items addressed in Section 3, please refer to item numbers and use like terminology to ease Proposal scoring. Where terminology may differ, provide a definition or explanation.

1.10.9 Geographic Location: No preference will be given for geographic location.

1.10.10 Interviews: High scoring Proposers may be invited for interviews and demonstrations.

These interviews will be based on Proposal scores and will be further evaluated based on interview performance. If there is an interview or demonstration component, the Proposer receiving the highest combined score will be selected for the Contract negotiation process.

1.11 Contract

1.11.1 Contract Negotiations: The Authority may negotiate with the highest scoring Proposer.

Upon successful Contract Negotiations there will be a Resolution presented to SRTA’s Board of Directors. The successful Proposer will receive a Notice of Intent to Award indicating their position. Proposers which will not receive a contract will receive a Notice of Intent that will inform of the decision to award the Contract to another firm. If there is a failure to reach suitable terms, the next highest scoring Proposer will be invited to engage in Contract Negotiations.

1.11.2 Award of Contract: The Authority has a Board of Directors meeting on June 26, 2025 during which the contract process will be approved for the successful Proposer. The apparent Contractor will then need to provide any necessary documentation to Allen Hollenbach, and the Notice to Proceed will be sent within two weeks of the receipt of all required documents.

1.11.4 Solicitation: This solicitation and any addenda will be incorporated in whole, by reference within the Contract. No Proposer exceptions will be accepted.

1.11.5 Proposal: The Contractor’s Proposal, Pricing Information, and information related to a Best And Final Offer will be incorporated in whole, by reference within the Contract.

1.11.6 Best and Final Offer: Proposers may be offered an opportunity to present a Best and Final Offer to SRTA after any interviews and negotiations. Proposers are warned to not provide inflated initial costs within their Proposal as there may not be a Best and Final Offer opportunity.

1.11.7 Scope of Work or Master Service Agreement: Should the awarded Contractor wish to use a scope of work (SOW) or master service agreement (MSA) in addition to the SRTA Contract, such documents shall be subordinate to the SRTA Solicitation and Contract which shall prevail in all matters. SRTA reserves the right to reject any and all terms within the Contractor’s SOW or MSA. Should the Contractor wish to utilize a SOW or MSA, same shall be submitted with the technical Proposal. Failure to submit a SOW or MSA with the Proposal shall preclude the submission of a SOW or MSA after the issuance of a Notice of Intent to Award.

1.12 Invoices and Payment

As full consideration for satisfactory performance under the Contract, the Contractor shall issue an invoice prior to the fifteenth (15th) day of the month after Milestone Achievement.

1.12.1 Milestone Achievement: Monthly invoices shall coincide with Milestone achievement dates and cost totals. Invoices shall be marked so as to clearly demonstrate Milestone Achievements.

1.12.2 Additional Terms: Invoices with additional terms and conditions will immediately be considered to be in dispute. The Contractor shall issue a revised invoice without additional terms. Payment of an invoice with additional terms shall not indicate acceptance of additional terms and conditions.

1.12.3 Delivery: Invoices shall be received by the fifteenth (15th) day of the month subsequent to the month where any work was performed. Invoices shall be sent to accountspayable@rabbittransit.org, bnoon@rabbittransit.org, and djuba@rabbittransit.org.

1.12.4 Prepayment: SRTA will not prepay for any work, materials, or supplies. No exceptions.

1.12.5 Invoice Questions: Should there be questions or disputes relative to any invoice, Contractor shall continue all work for the advancement of this project and shall make every effort to provide documentation and evidence to justify invoiced amounts.

Contractor shall provide such explanation as requested by SRTA.

1.12.6 Invoice Structure: Contractor shall list the SRTA issued Purchase Order number, Milestone Achievement, or Change Order fee as appropriate.

1.12.7 Verification: Each invoice shall be signed by the Contractor’s Project Manager.

1.12.8 Additional Charges: SRTA will not pay for travel costs, subsistence, or costs not detailed within the Price Form.

1.12.9 Change Orders: Invoices for Change Orders shall be separate from Milestone invoices and shall reference the corresponding SRTA issued Purchase Order. Change Orders shall be confirmed in writing by the SRTA Project Manager.

1.12.10 Payment: All payments will be conditioned on satisfactory and accepted performance of duties and responsibilities of the Contractor for each invoice submitted. Payments will be made within forty-five (45) days of invoice receipts unless there is a disputed invoice.

1.12.11 Disputed Invoices: Such invoices will be paid ten (10) days after such charges can be adequately described and documented by the Contractor and determined acceptable by the SRTA Project Manager.

1.12.12 Late Fees: SRTA will not pay late fees for disputed invoices, or misdirected invoices,

1.12.13 Additional Services and Materials: SRTA will not pay for any services, materials, or items not memorialized in a Change Order or Contract Amendment. All incurred costs shall have an SRTA Purchase Order. SRTA will not pay for services, materials, or items not documented by a SRTA Purchase Order.

1.13 Force Majeure

The successful Proposer shall not be liable for any failure to perform if acceptable evidence has been submitted to SRTA that failure to perform the Agreement was due to causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the successful Proposer. Examples of such causes include acts of God, civil disturbances, fire, war, or floods, but not include labor related incidents such as strikes or work stoppages or unavailability of any product to be supplied to the Responsible Authority. The Successful Proposer guarantees that products, labor, and equipment will be supplied in full force as needed without exception during the performance of each Task Order and throughout the Contract Life.

1.14 Contract Breaches and Dispute Resolution

Disputes arising from the performance of the contract, which are not resolved between SRTA and the contract holder shall be decided and resolved by the Executive Director of SRTA . In connection with any such appeal, the Contractor shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard and to offer evidence in support of its position. The decision of the Executive Director shall be binding upon the Contractor and the Contractor shall abide by the decision.

1.14.1 Performance During Dispute: Unless otherwise directed SRTA , Contractor shall continue performance under the Contract while matters in dispute are being resolved.

1.14.2 Claims for Damages: Should either party to the Contract suffer injury or damage to person or property because of any act or omission of the other party or of any of his mailto:accountspayable@rabbittransit.org mailto:ekelkis@rabbittransit.org employees, agents or others for whose act he is legally liable, a claim for damages therefor shall be made in writing to such other party within a reasonable time after the first observance of such injury or damage. Remedies: Unless this contract provides otherwise, all claims, counterclaims, disputes and other matters in question between the (Authority) and the Contractor arising out of or relating to this agreement or its breach will be decided by binding arbitration utilizing a firm or individual mutually acceptable to both parties. Rights and Remedies: The duties and obligations imposed by the Contract documents and the rights and remedies thereunder shall be in addition to and not a limitation of any duties, obligations, rights and remedies otherwise imposed or available by law. No action or failure to act by SRTA or the Contractor shall constitute a waiver of any right or duty afforded any of them under the Contract, nor shall any such action or failure to act constitute an approval of or acquiescence in any breach thereunder, except as may be specifically agreed in writing.

1.14.3 Non-Performance: Should Contractor fail to provide work products as described within this RFP and resulting Proposal the resulting Contract may be terminated as described in Item 4.23. Additionally, SRTA shall retain all right to remedy for any such damages as caused by Contractor during or at the conclusion of this Contract or during such occurrences.

1.15 Subcontracts

The requirement for single-point responsibility does not prohibit subcontracts or joint ventures provided that the single successful proposer assumes the position of Prime Contractor and performs Twenty Percent (20%) of the service specified.

1.15.1 Subcontractor Disputes: Additionally, the Authority will be held harmless, individually and collectively, with regard to any disputes between the Contractor and any subcontractors.

1.15.2 Assignment: This Contract may not be assigned, transferred, conveyed, sublet, or otherwise disposed without prior written consent of SRTA . Such requests must be made in writing and shall be at the sole discretion of SRTA .

1.15.3 Approval: SRTA reserves the right to approve or reject any subcontractor.

1.16 Liability

The Authority shall not be liable to any contractor or to any third party for any claims or damages occasioned by the solicitation, rejection, negotiation, or selection of proposals regarding this requirement. Each contractor or other respondent agrees to bear all costs of its response and participation in the process described in this RFP; there shall be no reimbursement for any costs incurred in the preparation of responses or proposals in connection with this process. Additionally the Authority will not be held liable or bear any responsibility for Contractor damage, injury, or loss.

1.17 Postponement and Cancellation

The Authority reserves the right to postpone the bid opening for its own convenience and to reject any or all bids.

1.18 Changes and Addendum

Changes to the specifications will be made by addendum. Answers to written questions will be included as an addendum. At no point shall any correspondence, conversation, or assumption be deemed to take precedence above this document or any addenda released by the SRTA Procurement Analyst.

1.19 Insurance

SRTA shall be supplied with certificates of such insurance prior to the commencement of any work under this Agreement. All coverages below are to be "occurrence" type policies.

1.19.1 Worker's Compensation Insurance: The Contractor shall be responsible for taking out and maintaining Workers' Compensation insurance in accordance with the laws of the

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as necessary. Evidence of having this insurance shall be given to SRTA .

1.19.2 Liability Insurance: The Contractor shall take out and maintain on its owned and leased vehicles used in service under this Agreement such general liability, vehicle liability and property damage liability insurance as shall protect SRTA , and others performing work covered in this Agreement, from all claims for damages, personal injury, including accidental death, as well as from claims for property damages which may arise from operations under this Agreement whether such operations be by the Contractor or by others directly or indirectly employed by either of them, by naming SRTA and all others performing work as additional insured with respect to the project, and the amount of such insurance shall be as follows:

a. General Liability - insurance in an amount not less than:

$2,000,000 General Aggregate Limit

$2,000,000 Products - Completed Operations Aggregate Limit

$2,000,000 Personal and Advertising Injury Limit

$2,000,000 Each Occurrence Limit

b. Automobile Insurance in an amount not less than:

$2,000,000 Combined Single Limit for Bodily Injury and Property Damage

Liability per Accident $35,000 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Limits – Not Stacked

1.19.3 The insurance herein before specified in sections 1.19.1 and 1.19.2 shall be with an acceptable insurance company authorized to do business in the Commonwealth of

Pennsylvania and shall be taken out before work is commenced and kept in effect until claims which may arise from work performed under the terms of this Agreement are satisfactorily completed. SRTA shall be given a minimum of thirty (30) days’ notice prior to any change or cancellation of any of the insurance required under this paragraph.

SRTA shall be named as "additional insured" on all policies. Failure to comply with any of the terms set forth in this paragraph shall constitute and result in an immediate and automatic termination of contract.

1.19.4 The Contractor shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Susquehanna Regional

Transportation Authority (SRTA), its officials and employees from and against any and all actual or alleged demands, claims, damages, losses and expenses, whether caused in whole or in part by a party indemnified hereunder, excepting only Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (rabbittransit) sole negligence. This includes, but is not limited to:

a. Injury and other claims arising out of employment by Contractor, SRTA /rabbittransit and / or their subcontractors and agents

b. Injury to third parties

c. Damage to and/or loss of use of tangible property

d. Attorney fees and other defense costs arising out of or related to the performance or non-performance of service arising out of or related to work or service by the Contractor and /or its employees, subcontractors, and/or agents.

1.19.5 Professional Liability, Errors, and Omissions: Professional Liability, Errors, and Omissions Insurance, at a limit of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) aggregate in the event that service delivered pursuant to this Agreement, either directly or indirectly, involves professional services. Policy shall provide coverage for legal liability for damages caused by an error, omission or negligent act in the performance of professional services. Policy extended reporting period or policy renewal must provide that the policy will respond to claims made for at least twenty-four (24) months after completion of the Engagement.

1.19.6 Valuable Papers Coverage: This coverage shall be maintained by Contractor in an amount sufficient to assure restoration of any field notes, records, logs, SRTA client information, SRTA, or other similar data relating to work covered by this Contract in the event of loss or destruction of same.

1.19.7 Reserved

1.19.8 Compliance: By submitting a Proposal, each Proposer agrees and contends compliance with each aspect of this section. SRTA or agents may ask for proof of such insurance at any point within Contract life parameters.

1.19.9 Additional Insured Names: Should a Contract be awarded, the Proposer shall supply SRTA with proof of additional insurance for the Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA), rabbittransit, Cumberland Dauphin Harrisburg Transport Authority (CDH), and Central Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (CPTA)

1.20 Jurisdiction and Venue

Any and all disputes between the parties relating in any way to this Contract, and all exhibits and/or attachments hereto, shall be adjudicated in the Court of Common Pleas of York County, Pennsylvania.

The parties hereto agree that jurisdiction and venue are appropriate as to each of them and said court.

1.21 Reservation of Governmental Immunity

The Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (“SRTA”) does not waive, relinquish, or otherwise limit any governmental or sovereign immunity by issuing this Solicitation, entering into any resulting Contract, or by any action taken pursuant thereto. SRTA expressly retains and preserves all immunities and defenses available under applicable law, including but not limited to those provided by the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act, 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8541–8564.

1.22 Confidentiality, Data Ownership, and Use of Materials

Contractor shall not release, publish, distribute, or display any materials, communications, reports, data, photographs, drawings, or other resources related to this Contract without the prior written consent of

SRTA.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, SRTA shall retain all ownership rights, title, and interest in and to all SRTA data, including but not limited to passenger information, trip data, operational records, reports, forms, logos, and any other materials generated or collected in the performance of services under this Contract. Contractor shall not acquire any ownership rights, title, or interest in SRTA data files or related materials.

Contractor shall retain ownership of any pre-existing intellectual property, systems, processes, or proprietary materials developed independently by Contractor and utilized in the performance of services under this Contract; however, such ownership shall not limit SRTA’s right to access, retrieve, and use its data.

Upon expiration or termination of this Contract, Contractor shall provide SRTA reasonable access to all SRTA data and records necessary to retrieve operational, financial, and passenger information associated with the services performed under this Contract. Contractor shall cooperate in good faith and make reasonable efforts to assist SRTA in migrating SRTA data to another contractor, system, or storage platform designated by SRTA, including providing such data in commercially available and commonly accepted file formats.

Any reports, data, photographs, SRTA-created forms, logos, or other materials produced specifically for SRTA under this Contract shall remain the property of SRTA.

Contractor shall take reasonable steps to safeguard SRTA data and materials and shall provide appropriate remedy to SRTA for any misuse, unauthorized disclosure, or improper handling of such information resulting from the actions or omissions of Contractor, its ownership, management, employees, agents, or subcontractors.

1.23 Contract Execution Requirement

The successful Offeror shall execute the Contract and return all required documents, including required bonds, insurance certificates, and other submittals, within ten (10) calendar days from the date of the Notice of Award, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Authority.

Submission of a bid or proposal shall constitute acknowledgment of and agreement to this requirement.

1.23.1 Acceptance of Contract Terms: By submission of a bid or proposal, the Offeror acknowledges review of and agreement to all terms and conditions of the Contract included in this solicitation. Exceptions, clarifications, or modifications to Contract terms after issuance of the Notice of Award shall not be permitted unless expressly approved in writing by SRTA.

1.23.2 Failure to Execute Contract: If the successful Offeror fails to execute the Contract within the time required under Section 1.23, the Authority may, at its sole discretion:

1.23.2.1 Rescind the Notice of Award;

1.23.2.2 Retain any bid security, if applicable;

1.23.2.3 Proceed with award to the next lowest responsive and responsible Offeror; and/or

1.23.2.4 Pursue any other remedies available under applicable law.

1.23.3 Rescission of Award: Failure to execute the Contract within the required time shall be cause for rescission of the award. Upon rescission, the Authority may proceed with award to the next lowest responsive and responsible Offeror without further notice or obligation to the originally selected Offeror.

1.23.4 Recovery of Re-procurement Costs: If the Authority awards the Contract to another Offeror at a higher price due to the failure of the original Offeror to execute the Contract, the original Offeror shall be liable to the Authority for the difference in price, together with any additional administrative and re-procurement costs incurred.

1.23.5 Responsibility Determination: Failure to execute a Contract following issuance of a Notice of Award may be considered by the Authority in determining the Offeror’s responsibility. Such failure may result in a finding of non-responsibility and may render the Offeror ineligible for award on future procurements for a period determined by the Authority.

1.24 Indemnification

The Contractor agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless SRTA, the Authority, its Board of Directors, officers, agents, servants and employees from and against any and all claims, judgments and awards, including court costs and reasonable counsel fees, (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Damages”) arising out of any claim, suit or action at law, in equity or otherwise, of any kind or nature whatsoever, which may be brought against the Authority and/or any or all of the aforementioned acts arising out of any actions referenced in the resulting Contract on account of any actual or alleged loss to property or injury to any person or persons (including death or mental injury), loss due to non‐injury claims, including but not limited to harassment or violation of civil rights or violence to person or property. This shall include all losses, Contractor’s and its subcontractor’s officers, agents, servants, employees or third parties, arising directly or indirectly out of or related to the performance or nonperformance under the resulting Contract by the Contractor, and/or subcontractor(s), and/or their officers, agents, servants or employees, even if caused in part by any party indemnified hereunder, excepting only the sole negligence of the Authority. Contractor shall also be liable to Authority for damages for loss of revenue, cost of money or capital, or loss of goodwill. The Authority will provide prompt notice within forty‐five (45) days of obtaining knowledge of a claim subject to this indemnification and make available all information and assistance that the Contractor may reasonably request. This indemnification requirement shall apply notwithstanding any determination by any insurance carrier as to coverage or failure or lapse of coverage set forth within the resulting Contract.

The aforementioned indemnification provision shall survive and continue in full force and effect beyond the expiration or termination of the resulting Contract as to any claim arising out of this Contract. Furthermore, in the event that a claim arises under this Contract, the Contractor has a duty to advise the authority of the status of the claim in which this Indemnification applies.

The use of third parties for the provision of transit services is not intended to waive any immunity protections of the authority as granted by the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act.

2. Bid Protests

2.1 Bid Protest Procedures

The policies and procedures governing the receipt and resolution of protests in connection with a Request for Proposals (RFP) are outlined below. This procedure is applicable to all RFPs.

2.2 Definitions Related to Protests

"Interested Party" means any bidders/proposers. "Days" means business days. “Filed” means the date of receipt by The Office of the Executive Director or his/her designee. “Federal/State Law or Regulation” means any valid requirement imposed by Federal, State, or other Statute or regulation. “Presumptive Contractor” means the bidder/proposer that is in line for award of the contract in the event that the protest is denied. “Protestant” is an Interested Party who is aggrieved in connection with the solicitation or award of a contract and who files a protest.

2.3 Types of Protests and Time Limits

For this solicitation, SRTA and the SRTA Executive Director will review and respond to all protests. A Pre-Bid Protest is based upon alleged restrictive specifications or alleged improprieties in the procurement process of the Authority. A Protestant must file a pre-bid protest no later than Five (5) days prior to bid opening date by 4:30 PM York, Pennsylvania prevailing time. A Pre-Award Protest is based upon alleged improprieties of a Bid. A Protestant must file a pre-award protest no later than Five

(5) days after the Protestant knows or should have known of the facts giving rise thereto by 4:30 PM York, Pennsylvania prevailing time. Post-Award Protest is based upon the award of a contract. A Protestant must file a post-award protest no later than Five (5) days after the notification to the unsuccessful firms of the Authority’s intent to award, or no later than Five (5) days after an unsuccessful firm becomes aware of the Authority’s intent to award a contract, whichever comes first, by 4:30 PM York, Pennsylvania prevailing time.

2.4 Content of Protest

Protests must be in writing, and filed directly with the Office of the Executive Director of the Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA ) at:

Executive Director Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA )

901 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg PA 17101 Any and all protests and must contain the following information:

a. The name, address and telephone number of the Protestant

b. Identity of the RFP (by name) “20260407 - ICB Consulting ”

c. A detailed factual statement of the grounds for protest

d. The desired relief, action, or ruling.

2.5 Action by the Authority

Procurement Process Status: Upon timely receipt of a protest, SRTA will delay the opening of bids until after a resolution of the protest or protests filed prior to the bid opening, or withhold award until after resolution of the protest or protests filed after bid opening. However, SRTA may open bids or award a contract whenever the Authority, at its sole discretion, determines that:

a. The items or work to be procured are urgently required

b. Delivery or performance will be unduly delayed by failure to make the award promptly

c. Failure to make prompt award will otherwise cause undue harm to either SRTA or funding sources.

If the protest is filed before the award of the contract, SRTA will advise the Presumptive Contractor of the pending protest. If deemed appropriate, SRTA may conduct an informal conference on the merits of the protest with all Interested Parties invited to attend.

2.5.1 Response to the Protest: SRTA’s Executive Director will respond in detail to each substantive issue raised in the protest within a reasonable time after the protest is filed.

SRTA’s response shall address only the issues raised originally by the Protestant. When on its face a protest does not state a valid basis for protest or is untimely, the Executive Director may summarily dismiss the protest without requiring a detailed response.

2.5.2 Rebuttal to the Authority’s Response: The Protestant may submit a written rebuttal to SRTA response, addressed to the Executive Director of SRTA, but must do so within five (5) days after receipt of the original Executive Director’s response. SRTA will not address new issues raised in the rebuttal. After receipt of the Protestant’s rebuttal, the Executive Director will review the protest and notify the Protestant of his/her final decision.

2.5.3 Request for Reconsideration: If data becomes available that was not previously known, or there has been an error of law, a Protestant may submit a request for reconsideration of the protest. SRTA’s Executive Director will again review the protest considering all currently available information. The Executive Director’s determination will be made within a reasonable period of time, and his/her decision will be considered final.

2.5.4 Decision: Upon review and consideration of all relevant information the determination as issued by the Executive Director will be final.

2.6 Confidentiality of Protest

Material submitted by a Protestant will not be withheld from any Interested Party, except to the extent that the withholding of information is permitted or required by law or regulation. If the Protestant considers that the protest contains proprietary material which should be withheld, a statement advising of this fact must be affixed to the front page of the protest submission and the allegedly protected information must be so identified whenever it appears.

2.7 Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Involvement

Where procurements are funded by the FTA, SRTA will notify the Regional Office of any known or pending protests. SRTA will notify the FTA again within five (5) business days from receipt of final decision made by the Executive Director of SRTA . The Protestant may file a protest with the FTA only where the protest alleges that SRTA failed to have, or failed to adhere to its protest procedures or there was a violation of Federal Law or Regulation. Any protest to the FTA must be filed in accordance with FTA Circular 4220.1G.

3. Specifications

3.1 General Scope

Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA), doing business as rabbittransit, is seeking proposals from qualified consulting firms to conduct a comprehensive market analysis and strategic evaluation of Intercity Bus (ICB) services across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The study shall inform the development of the 2026–2027 ICB Request for Proposals (RFP) and support statewide planning efforts administered on behalf of PennDOT/BPT.

3.1.1 Objective: The Contractor shall evaluate existing subsidized and unsubsidized ICB services, identify market opportunities, and develop criteria and frameworks to guide future procurement, service design, and funding allocation.

3.1.2 Proposer Responsibility: Proposer shall provide a Technical Proposal describing the approach, methodology, and process for completing each requirement of this Section.

Responses shall be specific, complete, and demonstrate a structured and repeatable methodology.

3.1.3 Methodology: The Proposer shall provide the following:

3.1.3.1 Conduct a literature review.

3.1.3.2 Perform a supply assessment (quantity and quality of existing ICB services).

3.1.3.3 Conduct a demand assessment (factors influencing ICB ridership).

3.1.3.4 Complete a gap analysis to identify unrealized markets.

3.1.4 Work Products:

3.1.4.1 Describe the characteristics of subsidized and unsubsidized ICB services.

3.1.4.2 Assess ICB demand in Pennsylvania and the factors influencing that demand.

3.1.4.3 Identify service gaps.

3.1.4.4 Establish criteria for evaluating future service opportunities.

3.1.4.5 Provide a framework for service prioritization and bid packaging.

3.1.5 Understanding: Proposals shall include a brief statement summarizing the requirements of this section to demonstrate understanding and to provide an explanation of the Proposing firm’s processes necessary to accomplish the SRTA objectives.

3.2 System Characteristics Analysis:

The Contractor shall describe the characteristics of subsidized and unsubsidized ICB services currently operating within Pennsylvania.

3.2.1 Proposer Approach: Proposer shall describe the methodology used to identify and classify ICB services, data sources to be utilized, metrics used to define system characteristics, and process for validating collected data.

3.3 Demand Assessment

The Contractor shall assess ICB demand across Pennsylvania and identify factors influencing ridership.

3.3.1 Proposer Approach: Proposer shall describe the demand analysis methodology, data sources, analytical tools and models, approach to identifying latent demand, and assumptions used.

3.3.2 Experience: Proposers shall provide a thorough description relative to performing this type or like work. Please ensure there are clear parallels drawn between this project and other projects. Be sure to include resumes for staffing referenced within this section.

3.4 Service Gap Identification

The Contractor shall identify geographic and service-level gaps in the existing ICB network.

3.4.1 Proposer Approach: Proposer shall describe the gap analysis methodology, criteria used to define underserved and unserved markets, use of spatial analysis tools, and validation approach.

3.5 Evaluation Criteria…