3-A. RFQ 269-2025-1937.pdf

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RFQ # 269-2026-1937

Program Management Advisor Consultant Services

November 10, 2025

Interested Company:

The City of Charlotte, North Carolina, is now accepting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for Program Management Advisor Consultant Services. The requirements for submitting an SOQ are stated in the attached Request for Qualifications (the “RFQ”). Please review them carefully.

The City of Charlotte is using the Bonfire e-Procurement Portal (“Procurement Portal” -https://charlottenc.bonfirehub.com) to accept and evaluate submittals for this RFQ. SOQs must be submitted electronically through the Procurement Portal on or before the Due Date in order to be accepted.

A Non-Mandatory Virtual Pre-Response Meeting for the purpose of reviewing the RFQ and answering questions regarding the Services will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 10 AM. No onsite meeting will be held, and Consultants should not come to the City expecting to attend in person. While attendance at the Pre-Response Meeting is not mandatory, all interested Consultants are encouraged to participate.

Click here to join:

Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 253 992 086 967 6 Passcode: FT6oq3jN

To dial in by phone:

872-256-4172 Phone conference ID: 158 461 378#

Please have a copy of the RFQ available for reviewing during the Pre-Response Meeting. SOQ submissions are due no later than December 11, 2025 at 2 PM.

The City is an equal opportunity purchaser.

Sincerely, Jeremy Wall, CLGPO Transit Procurement Officer https://charlottenc.bonfirehub.com/ https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_Y2QzZjM1YTMtMGY3Ny00MmMzLTlhYzItMjQ1OGRlODY2YWFi%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%223392a0ee-6ccb-49c5-94b5-f5e6d8a665d6%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%222728c74f-61bf-454f-a181-b60247acec6e%22%7d tel:+18722564172,,158461378 ii

Checklist for submitting a Proposal:

Step 1 Read the document fully.

Step 2 Review the solicitation timeline and upcoming events in the Procurement Portal and download copies of any documents if you plan to submit a Proposal.

Step 3 (Optional) Submit any questions via the Procurement Portal by the deadline(s) noted for the solicitation.

Step 4 Conduct a thorough review of the Sample Contract. Any exceptions to the Sample Contract must be uploaded in word format (with redlines/tracked changes)

Step 5 Monitor the Procurement Portal for any addendums and/or responses to questions.

If you plan to submit an SOQ, you must submit all required documents and respond to all questions within the Procurement Portal for the RFQ.

If awarded a contract, your company will be required to provide an insurance certificate(s) that meets or exceeds the requirements set forth in the Sample Contract.

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REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Program Management Advisor Consultant Services

RFQ# 269-2026-1937

Date Issued:

November 10, 2025

City of Charlotte Section 1 General Services Department RFQ INSTRUCTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) INSTRUCTIONS

1.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

1.2 PROJECT OVERVIEW

1.3 RFQ SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AND SOQ SUBMISSION

1.4 EVALUATION CRITERIA AND PROCESS

1.5 SOQ FORMAT

1.6 SOQ CONTENT

Cover Letter: General Information Tab 1: Proposed Project Team and Organization – 20 points Tab 2: Proposed Project Staff Experience and Availability – 25 points Tab 3: Project Approach – 25 points Tab 4: Team’s Comparable Project Experience – 30 points Tab 5: Required Forms

2 REPRESENTATIONS, CONDITIONS, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

2.1 COMMUNICATIONS

2.2 DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF FIRMS IN THE RFQ PROCESS

2.3 ADDENDA

2.4 NO COLLUSION, BRIBERY, LOBBYING OR CONFLICT OF INTEREST

2.5 PUBLIC RECORDS

2.6 COST OF SOQ PREPARATION

2.7 ADVERTISING

2.8 VENDOR REGISTRATION WITH CITY OF CHARLOTTE

2.9 REGISTRATION WITH SECRETARY OF STATE FOR NORTH CAROLINA; LICENSED ENGINEERS/ARCHITECTS

2.10 FINANCIAL CAPACITY; INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.11 OWNERSHIP OF WORK PRODUCTS

2.12 CITY RIGHTS AND RESERVATIONS

2.13 CONTRACT

2.14 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

2.15 E-VERIFY CERTIFICATION

2.16 FAMILIARITY AND COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND ORDINANCES

2.17 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.18 BACKGROUND CHECKS

2.19 NORTH CAROLINA PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTS WITH COMPANIES THAT INVEST IN IRAN OR BOYCOTT ISRAEL

2.20 CHARLOTTE BUSINESS INCLUSION

3 FEDERAL CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

EXHIBIT A – SCOPE OF WORK

1 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) INSTRUCTIONS

1.1 Public Notice

The City of Charlotte (City) is soliciting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from firms/teams (Firms) to provide Program Management and Advisory Services (Services). The City is seeking firms whose combination of experience and expertise will provide timely, professional services to the City. The City reserves the right to enter into one or more contracts with any firm selected under this RFQ process.

Information related to this solicitation, including any addenda, will be posted electronically through the Bonfire e-Procurement Portal (“Procurement Portal” -https://charlottenc.bonfirehub.com). Questions related to this solicitation must be submitted the following way:

Submit your question via the Vendor Discussion section on the Procurement Portal:

1.2 Project Overview

The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is seeking Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from qualified consulting firms to provide Program Management and Advisor (PMA) services to support the oversight and implementation of a multi-phase, multi-billion-dollar transit capital program involving bus and rail expansion. This program encompasses planning, design, construction, and integration of major transit improvements over the next 30 years.

The selected PMA will support CATS in ensuring the effective execution of this capital program through technical expertise, program and project controls, risk management, stakeholder coordination, and strategic oversight. The PMA will coordinate other project consultants including design, real estate, safety and security, construction management and other consultants.

1.3 RFQ Schedule of Events and SOQ Submission

Provided below is the anticipated schedule of events. The City reserves the right to adjust the schedule and to add/remove specific events to meet the unique needs of this Project.

Advertisement of RFQ: November 10, 2025 Pre-Submittal Meeting: November 19, 2025 at 10 AM Deadline for Questions: November 26, 2025 DUE DATE & TIME FOR SUBMITTALS: December 11, 2025 at 2 PM Interviews (If needed) January 5-9, 2026

Attendance at the pre-submittal meeting is not mandatory but is highly recommended.

SOQs shall be submitted electronically through the Procurement Portal. It is the sole responsibility of the firm to ensure that the SOQ package is uploaded and submitted to the Procurement Portal no later than the established due date and time. SOQs received after the due date and time will not be considered. SOQs submitted by any other means will not be accepted.

1.4 Evaluation Criteria and Process

Firms will not be considered unless the following minimum qualifications are met:

• Firm must be properly registered with the Office of the Secretary of State of North Carolina (as applicable);

Evaluation criteria consist of:

• Proposed Project Team and Organization;

• Proposed Project Staff Experience and Availability;

• Project Approach; and

• Team’s Comparable Project Experience

The City will appoint an evaluation committee whose responsibilities will include performing technical evaluations of each SOQ and making selection recommendations based on the evaluation criteria provided above. Evaluations will focus on identifying the relative strengths, weaknesses, deficiencies, and risks associated with each SOQ. Interviews are anticipated, at the discretion of the evaluation committee. The City reserves the right to obtain clarification or additional information from any firm regarding to its SOQ.

The City reserves the sole right to select the most qualified consultant(s) on the basis of best overall SOQ (s) that is most advantageous to the City. Firms that submit SOQs will be notified of the selection results. Final approval of any selected firm is subject to the approval of City Council and/or City officials.

1.5 SOQ Format

The SOQ package should consist of a cover letter, responses to the specific inquiries in Section 1.6 below, and a set of completed forms, as required. Interested Firms must submit these materials in PDF format.

SOQs are limited to a maximum of 25 numbered pages. Type size should be no smaller than 11 points for narrative sections, but may be reduced for captions, footnotes, etc., while maintaining legibility. Required forms, resumes, covers, sub-tabs and dividers do not count toward the page limit. Non-conforming submissions may be removed from consideration at the sole discretion of the City.

1.6 SOQ Content

SOQ packages should be arranged as follows:

Cover Letter: General Information

A. Describe your interest in this Project and the unique advantage your firm and team brings.

B. What challenges or impediments could affect the schedule or budget for the project? How do you propose to address and mitigate these? Give examples of similar challenges on your past projects.

C. State any conflicts of interest your firm or any key team member may have with this Project.

D. Identify and describe any pending claims, disputes, and/or litigation and any that occurred within the past five (5) years involving your firm or any of your proposed subconsultants. With respect to resolved matters, describe the outcome.

E. Provide a description of the company that will enter into the contract(s) with the City, including origin, background, current size, financial capacity, available resources, general organization, and company headquarters. Identify the name and title of the person authorized to enter into the contract(s) with the City.

F. List exceptions to the City’s standard contract terms and conditions. A sample contract is incorporated as Exhibit B.

Tab 1: Proposed Project Team and Organization – 20 points

A. Provide an organization chart of all key team members who will be directly involved in providing services, including any subcontractors if used, to be assigned specifically to this project. Identify the Project Manager who will be empowered to make decisions for and act on behalf of the firm. Identify any member of the team that is certified as a minority, women or small business firm.

B. Discuss your firm’s/team’s qualifications and previous experience on similar or related projects.

C. Describe any previous collaboration(s) between key team members, the responsibilities of each team member during these collaborations, and the project(s) outcome. Cite any significant achievements reached as a result of this collaboration. Discuss the successes of the team collaboration, and any problems encountered and methods used to mitigate issues.

D. Resumes may be submitted for each proposed key team member. Resumes will not be counted towards the page limit.

Tab 2: Proposed Project Staff Experience and Availability – 25 points

A. Describe a specific project or example that illustrates key team members relevant experience including their specific role on the project.

B. Discuss availability of key team members by providing a list of current projects/work for each key team member.

Tab 3: Project Approach – 30 points

A. Discuss the Firm’s understanding of the Project objectives and describe the proposed project approach to deliver the Services in an effective, timely and professional manner. Outline the project plans, structure and services to be provided and how and when these services shall be provided. This description should fully and completely demonstrate the proposer’s intended methods for servicing the requirements of all aspects of the Project set forth herein.

B. Describe any support needed from City staff in order to execute the Services.

C. Describe the firm’s Project Management and Quality Control procedures, processes for performance, and past involvement in projects of similar nature to those anticipated as a result of this solicitation.

D. Discuss the firm’s processes and procedures for managing programs and providing oversight of projects.

Tab 4: Team’s Comparable Project Experience – 25 points

A. List a maximum of 5 relevant, similar projects, either currently in progress or having been completed in the past 10 years, containing work comparable to this specific Project, including any projects with the City, as follows:

• List only projects involving the key team members or subcontractors proposed for this

Project.

• List projects in date order with newest projects listed first and include the following:

o Brief project description;

o Owner’s representative having knowledge of the firm’s work, include the contact name, phone, email, address;

o Contract dollar amount and total time period involved. Demonstrate your firm’s previous successes in being able to deliver similar projects on time and at or under budget;

o Discuss the methods, approach and controls used on the project in order to complete it in an effective, timely, economical and professional manner.

Tab 5: Required Forms Forms provided with this RFQ shall be completed and submitted with the SOQ. Required Forms will not be counted towards the page limit. Failure to submit required forms may be grounds for rejection of submission at the sole discretion of the City.

City of Charlotte Section 2 General Services Department REPRESENTATIONS, CONDITIONS, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

2 REPRESENTATIONS, CONDITIONS, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Communications

All communication of any nature with respect to this RFQ shall be addressed to the Contracts Administrator identified in this RFQ. With the exception of communications with the Contracts Administrator and Charlotte Business INClusion (CBI) Compliance Officer for this RFQ, firms and their staffs are prohibited from communicating with elected City officials, City staff and any evaluation committee member regarding this RFQ or SOQ from the time the RFQ is released until the selection results are publicly announced. These restrictions include “thank you” letters, phone calls, emails, and any contact that results in the direct or indirect discussion of this RFQ and/or the SOQ submitted by the firm/team. Violation of this provision may lead to disqualification of the firm’s SOQ for consideration.

2.2 Duties and Obligations of Firms in the RFQ Process

Interested firms are expected to fully inform themselves as to all conditions, requirements and specifications of this RFQ before submitting a proposal. Firms must perform their own evaluation and due diligence verification of all information and data provided by the City. The City makes no representations or warranties regarding any information or data provided by the City. Firms are expected to promptly notify the City in writing to report any ambiguity, inconsistency or error in this RFQ. Failure to notify the City accordingly will constitute a waiver of claim of ambiguity, inconsistency or error.

2.3 Addenda

In order to clarify or modify any part of this RFQ, addenda may be issued and posted at the City’s Procurement Portal. Any requests for additional information or clarifications should be submitted through the Vendor Discussion section on the Procurement Portal or via email by the “Deadline for Questions” stated in Section 1.3 – RFQ Schedule of Events.

2.4 No Collusion, Bribery, Lobbying or Conflict of Interest

By responding to this RFQ, the firm shall be deemed to have represented and warranted that its SOQ submittal is not made in connection with any competing firm submitting a separate response to this RFQ, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. Furthermore, the firm certifies that neither it, any of its affiliates or subconsultants, nor any employees of any of the foregoing has bribed, or attempted to bribe, an officer or employee of the City in connection with this RFQ.

2.5 Public Records

Upon receipt by the City, each SOQ becomes the property of the City and is considered a public record except for material that qualifies as “Trade Secret” information under North Carolina General Statute 66-152 et seq. SOQs will be reviewed by the City’s evaluation committee, as well as other City staff and members of the general public who submit public record requests after a selection result has been announced to the public. To properly designate material as a trade secret under these circumstances, each firm must take the following precautions: (a) any trade secrets submitted by the firm must specifically and clearly be identified by separating them from the rest of the Proposal and marked as “Trade Secret – Confidential and Proprietary Information

– Do Not Disclose Except for the Purpose of Evaluating this SOQ” on each page of the trade secret https://charlottenc.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities https://charlottenc.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities and (b) the document(s) containing the trade secret designations must be uploaded separately in the Procurement Portal.

In submitting an SOQ, each firm agrees that the City may reveal any trade secret materials contained in such response to all City staff and City officials involved in the evaluation process and to any outside consultant or other third parties who serve on the evaluation committee or who are hired by the City to assist in the evaluation process. Furthermore, each firm agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the City and each of its officers, employees and agents from all costs, damages and expenses incurred in connection with refusing to disclose any material that the firm has designated as a trade secret. Any firm that designates its entire SOQ as a trade secret may be disqualified from consideration.

2.6 Cost of SOQ Preparation

The City shall not be liable for any expenses incurred by any firm responding to this RFQ. Firms submitting a SOQ in response to this RFQ agree that the materials and submittals are prepared at the firm’s own expense with the express understanding that the firm cannot make any claims whatsoever for reimbursement from the City for the costs and expense associated with preparing and submitting a SOQ. Each firm shall hold the City harmless and free from any and all liability, costs, claims, or expenses incurred by, or on behalf of, any person or firm responding to this RFQ.

2.7 Advertising

In submitting a SOQ, the firm agrees not to use the results therefrom as part of any commercial advertising without prior written approval of the City of Charlotte.

2.8 Vendor Registration with City of Charlotte

The selected firm and subcontractors must be registered in the City’s Vendor Registration System in order to receive payment for services and/or supplies provided under any City contract.

2.9 Registration with Secretary of State for North Carolina; Licensed Engineers/Architects Any firm wishing to be considered for the Services must be properly registered with the Office of the Secretary of State and with either the North Carolina Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors or the North Carolina Board of Architecture, as applicable, at the time of submission of the SOQ. The firm(s) selected under this RFQ will be responsible for providing all professional, technical, managerial, and administrative staff with the appropriate skills and qualifications to perform the required Services. The person in responsible charge of the work must be a registered professional in the State of North Carolina and must have good ethical and professional standing.

Any firm proposing to use corporate subsidiaries or subcontractors must include a statement that these companies are properly registered with the NC Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors or North Carolina Board of Architecture, as applicable. It will be the responsibility of the prime firm to verify the registration of any corporate subsidiary or subcontractor prior to submitting a SOQ. For detailed licensing requirements, refer to North Carolina General Statutes (http://www.ncbels.org/rulesandlaws.html).

http://www.ncbels.org/rulesandlaws.html

2.10 Financial Capacity; Insurance Requirements

The selected firm must have the financial capacity to undertake the work and assume associated liability.

2.11 Ownership of Work Products

The City shall have exclusive ownership of all intellectual property rights in all designs, plans and specifications, documents and other work product prepared by, for, or under the direction of the selected firm pursuant to any contract under this RFQ (collectively, the “Intellectual Property”), including without limitation the right to copy, use, disclose, distribute, and make derivations of the Intellectual Property for any purpose or to assign such rights to any third party. The Intellectual Property shall be prepared in the City’s name and shall be the sole and exclusive property of the City, whether or not the work contemplated therein is performed. The City will grant the firm a royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use and copy the Intellectual Property to the extent necessary to perform the contract.

2.12 City Rights and Reservations

The City expects to select one or more firms, but reserves the right to request substitutions of any key team member, including staff and subcontractors. The City reserves the right to contact any firm/team for any additional information including but not limited to experience, qualifications, abilities, equipment, facilities, and financial standing. The City reserves the right to modify any part of this RFQ as issued with an addendum. The City, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to reject any or all responses to the RFQ, to cancel the RFQ, to re-advertise for new RFQ responses either with identical or revised specifications, or to accept any RFQ response, in whole or part, deemed to be in the best interest of the City. The City reserves the right to waive technicalities and informalities.

A response to this RFQ shall not be construed as a contract, nor indicate a commitment of any kind. The City reserves the sole right to award a contract or contracts to the most qualified firm(s) on the basis of best overall SOQ that is most advantageous to the City. The City also reserves the right to make multiple awards, based on experience and qualifications if it is deemed in the City’s best interest.

2.13 Contract

The contents of this RFQ and all provisions of the successful SOQ deemed responsive by the City may be incorporated, either in whole or in part, into a contract and become legally binding when approved and executed by both parties. Contents of the contract may contain changes from the City‘s perspective as a result of the RFQ process and SOQ(s) received. The final negotiated contract may include the scope of work as outlined in this RFQ along with the successful firm’s submittal and any additions or deletions made at the discretion of the City as a result of the RFQ process.

2.14 Equal Opportunity

The firm will ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not unfairly discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or veteran status.

2.15 E-Verify Certification

The firm shall comply with requirements of Article 2 of Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General Statutes, and shall require each of its subcontractors to do so as well.

2.16 Familiarity and Compliance with Laws and Ordinances

The firm shall make itself aware of and comply with, and shall cause each of its subcontractors to comply with, all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including obtaining all required permits and licenses.

2.17 Insurance Requirements

The consultant selected under this RFQ will be required, during the life of the contract with the City, to purchase and maintain the following insurance with a company acceptable to the City and authorized to do business with the State of North Carolina:

• Automobile Liability Insurance: Bodily injury and property damage liability covering all owned, non‐owned, and hired automobiles for limits of not less than $1,000,000 bodily injury each person, each accident and $1,000,000 property damage, or $1,000,000 combined single limit each occurrence/aggregate.

• Comprehensive General Liability: Bodily injury and property damage liability as shall protect the consultant and any subcontractor performing work under the agreement from claims of bodily injury or property damage which arise from operation of this agreement whether such operations are performed by the consultant, any subcontractor, or any person directly or indirectly employed by either. The amounts of such insurance shall not be less than $1,000,000 bodily injury each occurrence/aggregate and $1,000,000 property damage each occurrence/aggregate or $1,000,000 bodily injury and property damage combined single limits each occurrence/aggregate. This insurance shall include coverage for products/completed operation, personal injury liability and contractual liability assumed under the indemnity provision of the agreement.

• Worker’s Compensation and Occupation Disease Insurance: In conformance with State law, in an amount of $100,000 each accident and disease for each employee, and $500,000 disease policy limit providing coverage for employees and owners.

• Professional Liability Insurance: In an amount of not less than $1,000,000 each claim and $1,000,000 aggregate.

The City shall be exempt from, and in no way liable for, any sums of money that may represent a deductible in any insurance policy. The payment of such deductible shall be the sole responsibility of the Developer and/or subconsultant providing such insurance.

The City shall be named as additional insured under the commercial general liability insurance for operations and services rendered under a contract. At the time of execution of the contract, certificates of all required insurance shall be furnished to the City and shall contain the provision that the City will be given thirty (30) day written notice of any intent to amend or terminate by either the insured or the insuring company.

2.18 Background Checks

Certain City facilities require a background check of all company employees before they are allowed into the facility. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department will conduct these background checks as needed.

2.19 North Carolina Prohibition on Contracts with Companies that Invest in Iran or Boycott Israel The Consultant certifies that: (i) it is not identified on the Final Divestment List or any other list of prohibited investments created by the NC State Treasurer pursuant to N.C.G.S. 147-86.58 (collectively, the “Treasurer’s IDA List”); (ii) it has not been designated by the NC State Treasurer pursuant to N.C.G.S. 147-86.81 as a consultant engaged in the boycott of Israel (such designation being referred to as the “Treasurer’s IB List”); and (iii) it will not take any action causing it to appear on the Treasurer’s IDA List or the Treasurer’s IB List during the term of this Contract. In signing this Contract consultant further agrees, as an independent obligation, separate and apart from this Contract, to reimburse the City for any and all damages, costs and attorneys’ fees incurred by the City in connection with any claim that this Contract or any part thereof is void due to consultant appearing on the Treasurer’s IDA List or the Treasurer’s IB List at any time before or during the term of this Contract.

2.20 Organizational Conflict of Interest

The firm selected under this RFQ will be subject to applicable restrictions against organizational conflicts of interest and will be required to comply with such restrictions at all times in connection with the services it provides to and on behalf of the City. The firm shall not provide Services to the City which would constitute or create an organizational conflict of interest, including but not limited to a lack of impartiality or impaired objectivity, unequal access to information, or biased ground rules, under any contract arising out of this RFQ or any other existing or future contract with the City. In particular for this RFQ, prospective bidders should be aware that, if selected for this contract, potential conflicts of interest may arise and would need to be analyzed and resolved if they wish to be considered for follow-on work related to the CATS capital program.

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3 FEDERAL CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This exhibit must be included in all solicitations, including those where federal funds may be used to fund purchases of products, services, or construction solicited by this solicitation document.

This Exhibit is attached and will be incorporated into the contract between the City and the selected consultant. Capitalized terms not defined in this Exhibit shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the Contract. In the event of a conflict between this Exhibit and the terms of the main body of the Contract or any other exhibit or appendix, the terms of this Exhibit shall govern.

Contracts resulting from this solicitation process will be for a fixed price and task orders may be issued with federal funds. The provisions required under 2 CFR §200.326 and as provided under 2 CFR Part 200, Appendix II, among other provisions, are incorporated herein by reference.

3.1 Debarment and Suspension. The Company represents and warrants that, as of the

Effective Date of the Contract, neither the Company nor any subcontractor or subconsultant performing work under this Contract (at any tier) is included on the federally debarred bidder’s list listed on the government wide exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM), in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR part 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR part 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” If at any point during the Contract term the Company or any subcontractor or subconsultant performing work at any tier is included on the federally debarred bidder’s list, the Company shall notify the City immediately. The Company’s completed Form – Vendor Debarment Certification is incorporated herein as Form D.

3.2 Record Retention. The Company certifies that it will comply with the record retention requirements detailed in 2 CFR § 200.333. The Company further certifies that it will retain all records as required by 2 CFR § 200.333 for a period of three (3) years after it receives City notice that the City has submitted final expenditure reports or quarterly or annual financial reports, as applicable, and all other pending matters are closed.

3.3 Procurement of Recovered Materials. The Company represents and warrants that in its performance under the Contract, the Company shall comply with section 6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. The requirements of Section 6002 include procuring only items designated in guidelines of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 40 CFR Part 247 that contain the highest percentage of recovered materials practicable, consistent with maintaining a satisfactory level of competition, where the purchase price of the item exceeds $10,000 or the value of the quantity acquired during the preceding fiscal year exceeded $10,000; procuring solid waste management services in a manner that maximizes energy and resource recovery; and establishing an affirmative procurement program for procurement of recovered materials identified in the EPA guidelines.

3.4 Clean Air Act and Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The Company agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401- 7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387). Violations must be reported to the Federal awarding agency and the Regional Office of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

3.5 Energy Efficiency. The Company certifies that the Company will be in compliance with mandatory standards and policies relating to energy efficiency which are contained in the state energy conservation plan issued in compliance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (Pub. L. 94-163, 89 Stat. 871).

3.6 Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. 1352). The Company certifies that:

3.6.1. No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the Company, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an 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 grant, the making of any Federal Loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of and Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

3.6.2. 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 an 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 Company shall complete and submit Standard Form "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions [as amended by "Government wide Guidance for New Restrictions on Lobbying," 61 Fed. Reg. 1413 (1/19/96)].

3.6.3. The Company shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.

3.6.4. The Company’s completed “Byrd Anti-Lobbying Certification” Form E is incorporated herein.

3.7 Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 3701-3708). If the Contract is in excess of $100,000 and involves the employment of mechanics or laborers, the Company must comply with 40 U.S.C. 3702 and 3704, as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5). Under 40 U.S.C. 3702 of the Act, the Company is required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of forty (40) hours. Work in excess of the standard work week is permissible provided that the worker is compensated at a rate of not less than one and a half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of forty (40) hours in the work week.

These requirements do not apply to the purchases of supplies or materials or articles ordinarily available on the open market, or purchases of transportation or transmission of intelligence.

3.8 Right to Inventions. If the federal award is a “funding agreement” under 37 CFR 401.2 and the City wishes to enter into a contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization regarding the substitution of parties, assignment of performance or experimental, developmental or research work thereunder, the City must comply with 37 CFR Part 401, “Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements,” and any implementing regulations issued by the awarding agency.

3.9 DHS Seal, Logo, and Flags. The Company shall not use the Department of Homeland

Security (“DHS”) seal(s), logos, crests, or reproductions of flags or likenesses of DHS agency officials without specific FEMA pre-approval.

3.10 The Federal Government is not a party to this Contract and is not subject to any obligations or liabilities to the City, Company, or any other party pertaining to any matter resulting from the Contract.

Exhibit A – SCOPE OF WORK

1. Background CATS is the largest transit system between Atlanta and Washington, D.C., with 69 local, express and regional bus routes, the Blue Line light rail line, Gold Line streetcar service, STS paratransit service, micro-transit, and vanpool services. The system operates daily, delivering residents to jobs, medical appointments, school, entertainment and other destinations.

CATS’ mission and vision is “Moving People Forward” to create a seamless transit experience that improves the lives of individuals, fuels economic growth, builds a connected region and fosters a sustainable future for all.

The adopted 5-year Capital Investment Plan (CIP) is prioritized to continue to address the system’s State of Good Repair needs including replacing vehicles, facility rehab and enhancements, parking deck and bridge repairs, drainage improvements, and technology upgrades. Key funded expansion projects include the Hambright park and ride, ADA/Bus stop shelter improvements, Operator comfort stations, and the new South End Station.

2. Transit System Plan In May 2025, the Metropolitan Transit Commission approved an update to the adopted Transit System Plan, that includes a fiscally constrained program of bus and rail improvements to be implemented over the next 30 years. The program will be funded by an additional 1 cent sales tax for transportation, 60% of which would go for transit improvements (bus and rail), which was approved by the voters on November 4, 2025.

The adopted Transit System Plan includes the following investments.

Better Bus & Micro-transit

• Better Bus program is the backbone of the Plan, slated for rollout within 5–10 years:

o Increase bus service system-wide by 50% o Boost frequency: top 15 highest ridership routes to 15-minute intervals; all others to 30-minute or better o Upgrade more than 2,000 bus stops with shelters, benches, pads, and amenities

• Micro-transit zones (on-demand curb-to-curb services) will cover ~19 zones across >100 sq miles in Mecklenburg County, fostering first-mile/last-mile connections

Rail Expansion: Rapid Transit Corridor System

A phased, financially constrained expansion of 43 miles of rail:

Red Line (commuter rail)

• 25-mile line from Charlotte Gateway Station to Mount Mourne

• Currently in design phase; earliest expected opening around 2035

Silver Line (light rail)

• Financially constrained plan: 10-mile segment from Airport to Coliseum/Ovens

• Longer-term extensions planned west to I-485 and east toward Matthews, as funding allows

Gold Line (streetcar)

• 10-mile ultimate streetcar corridor; currently 4 miles operational

• A 6-mile extension east and west

Blue Line Extension (light rail)

• Financially constrained plan: 2-mile extension from I-485/South Blvd to Carolina Place Mall in Pineville

• Platform capacity expansion on 11 stations to accommodate 3-car trains

• Longer-term extension to Ballantyne, as funding allows

Community Engagement

The Transit System Plan update was developed through extensive public outreach from Fall 2024 to Spring 2025. Community input surveys indicated 93% of support among participants for more transit options and enhanced frequencies across Mecklenburg County. Key themes in public feedback included a preference for rail over bus rapid transit, the need for improved customer experience, and desire to see transit investments implemented as soon as possible.

3. Program Funding

• House Bill 948 (P.A.V.E. Act), signed on July 1, 2025, permits public referendum for a 1¢ sales tax for transportation in Mecklenburg County, which is expected to be on the November 2025 ballot.

• This tax is projected to generate around $19.4 billion over 30 years, with 60% directed to transit (buses, micro-transit, and rail), and 40% to municipal road improvements.

• The PAVE Act also requires the creation of a transit authority if the sales tax is approved.

• CATS anticipates seeking Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding from the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program to help fund the major capital projects, as well as seeking other grant opportunities.

Summary Table – Financially Constrained Transit Plan Component Scope & Timeline Status

Better Bus 50% increase in bus service and 18 micro-transit zones Improvements at 2,000+ bus stops (pads, benches, and/or shelters)

Service ramp-up plan under development for first 5 years

Red Line 25 miles commuter rail from Charlotte Gateway Station to Mooresville

15% design complete O-Line ROW purchased in 2025 Cost Estimate: $1.4 B (2025$)

Silver Line Minimum Operable Segment (MOS) included in the financially constrained program.

10 miles light rail from Airport to Coliseum/Ovens

15-30% design complete Cost Estimate: $3.4 B (2025$)

Component Scope & Timeline Status

Gold Line Ext. 6-mile streetcar expansion (2 miles west, 4 miles east) 30% design update underway Cost Estimate: $0.9 B (2025$)

Blue Line Ext.

Minimum Operable Segment (MOS) included in the financially constrained program.

2-miles light rail extension to Pineville (+ future Ballantyne) Platform extensions on existing South segment to allow 3 car trains

No design completed Cost Estimate: $0.7 B (2025$)

4. Scope of Services The PMA will provide program management and advisory services to support successful delivery of all components of the capital program. The PMA may also act as an extension of staff. Services may include some or all of the following tasks. The contract is expected to be a Task Order based contract.

4.1 Program Oversight and Governance

• Develop overall program strategy including program and project execution planning The PMA will define a comprehensive strategy to guide the capital program from inception through completion, including execution planning at both program and project levels to ensure alignment with agency goals and timelines. Although the focus will be on capital expansion projects, the PMA would also consider “State of Good Repair” projects as part of the program strategy. This would include strategies related to grant funding and the FTA grant, evaluation, and project development process.

• Lead and/or assist with project delivery method assessments The PMA will evaluate various project delivery methods (e.g., Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, CMAR, CM/GC, DBOM, and DBFOM) to determine the most effective approach for each project based on complexity, risk, schedule, and budget considerations. This work would include strategies related to project packaging and coordinating delivery of related projects to maximize benefits and minimize costs.

• Assist with governance structures and decision-making processes The PMA will support the development and refinement of governance frameworks that clearly define roles, responsibilities, and authority levels, conflict resolution and escalation processes, with the goals of streamlining decision-making and enhancing accountability.

• Develop resource/staffing strategy, staffing plans, and organizational development needs assessment for the capital program implementation The PMA will assess current staffing capabilities and recommend a resource strategy, including organizational structure and workforce planning, to ensure the capital program is adequately supported throughout its lifecycle.

• Alignment of service expansion and capital needs The PMA will help align planned service enhancements with capital infrastructure investments, ensuring that capital projects are strategically coordinated with operational growth and regional transit goals. In addition, the PMA may provide assistance with planning and implementation of service improvements, include staffing plans, vehicle procurements, and related work to support the rapid implementation of the Better Bus program.

• Provide executive-level reporting and dashboards The PMA will deliver high-level reports and dynamic dashboards to executive leadership, summarizing program performance, key milestones, financial health, and risk status in a clear and actionable format.

4.2 Program Controls

• Schedule management and master schedule oversight The PMA will develop and maintain the program’s master schedule, monitor progress across all projects, and identify potential delays, ensuring timely project delivery and coordination. The PMA will be responsible for reviewing and incorporating each project’s monthly schedule update from the design consultant and ensuring consistency across project schedules.

• Cost estimating and cost estimate reviews The PMA will prepare independent cost estimates and conduct rigorous reviews of project estimates for the major milestone engineering submittals to ensure accuracy, transparency, and consistency across the program.

• Budget and contingency tracking The PMA will track budget allocations and monitor use of contingencies, ensuring financial control and allowing for informed decision-making in response to cost changes. The PMA will ensure consistency rates are applied consistently across each project team based on the level of each project definition.

• Change control processes and claims management The PMA will implement standardized change management processes and assist in the resolution of claims to minimize project disruption and maintain fiscal discipline.

• Performance metrics and KPIs, including earned value The PMA will develop and track performance metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including earned value analysis, to assess project health and identify issues early.

• Project management information system (PMIS) support The PMA will support the management and implementation of the PMIS (currently using Trimble Unity Construct) that serves as a central platform for tracking project data, documentation, process approvals, deliverable and submittal reviews, and budget, costs and performance. The PMA will evaluate the functionality of the current system and make recommendations for enhancements to the system, or for procuring an alternative system.

• Financial analysis and updates to the financially constrained program The PMA will perform ongoing financial analysis and support updates to the program’s financial plan, including assessing financial risks and opportunities.

• Support the DBE Program and develop strategies to ensure a successful DBE program The PMA will make recommendations related to enhancing Disadvantaged Business Enterprise

(DBE) capacity, participation and outreach and provide strategic guidance to support inclusion and equity throughout the program.

• Develop standard procedures and methodologies for consistency among projects The PMA will establish standardized procedures, templates, and best practices to promote consistency and quality control across all projects in the capital program.

• Develop and implement training program for project teams related to project management and controls The PMA will design and deliver targeted training sessions to build internal capacity in areas such as scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and PMIS usage, and to ensure understanding and compliance with standard project management procedures.

4.3 Risk Management

• Develop and maintain program-level risk registers The PMA will identify, assess, and document key risks across the program in a centralized risk register, supporting proactive management and oversight. This work would include the review of project risk registers to incorporate as appropriate into the program risks.

• Facilitate risk workshops The PMA will conduct risk workshops with project stakeholders to collaboratively identify risks, assign responsibilities, and develop mitigation strategies.

• Implement mitigation strategies The PMA will work with project teams to implement tailored mitigation actions, continuously monitor risk status, and adjust plans as necessary to reduce exposure.

4.4 Stakeholder Coordination and Communication Management

• Interface with external agencies, communities, utilities, and third parties The PMA may serve as a liaison with outside entities, coordinating requirements and resolving issues at a program level related to permitting, utility relocation, right-of-way, and interagency dependencies.

• Support public engagement and communication strategy The PMA will contribute to the development and execution of outreach plans to inform and engage the public on the overall program, implementation plan and status, ensuring transparency and responsiveness to community concerns.

4.5 Technical Support

• Review of project scopes, technical documents, and design deliverables As required, the PMA will provide expert reviews of technical documents to ensure scopes are well defined, designs meet standards, and deliverables are aligned with program objectives. The PMA will make technical experts available to serve as reviewers of the project team design submittals as requested by CATS.

• Constructability reviews As required, the PMA will evaluate or assist in the evaluation of design documents from a construction feasibility standpoint, identifying potential issues early to reduce change orders and construction risk.

• Value Engineering studies As required, the PMA will conduct value engineering studies for selected projects to optimize design, reduce costs including lifecycle cost analyses, accelerate schedule, and enhance functionality or enhance project benefits.

• Procurement support (e.g., RFQ/RFP/ITB preparation, evaluation support) The PMA will assist with the preparation of procurement documents, support evaluation processes, and help ensure fair, transparent, and compliant selection of vendors, contractors and consultants.

• Construction management As required, the PMA will provide construction management services for one or more projects.

4.6 Reporting and Documentation

• Regular reporting to internal and external stakeholders The PMA will compile and distribute periodic reports detailing program progress, performance indicators, risk status, and financial data to keep all stakeholders informed.

• Documentation of decisions, actions, and lessons learned The PMA will ensure critical decisions and actions are recorded for institutional memory, and will capture lessons learned to improve processes for future projects and programs.

4.7 Asset Management

• TAM program development As required, the PMA will assist with the update and maintenance of the…