Access_Control_System_Upgrade_(Addendum_#3_Revision).pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

072-2026

ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM UPGRADE

Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority

525 Vine Street

Cincinnati, OH 45202

RELEASE DATE: June 23, 2026

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS: July 9, 2026

RESPONSE DEADLINE: August 3, 2026, 2:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/go-metro https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/%7bproject.government.code%7d

Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Access Control System Upgrade

I. Introduction

II. Scope of Work

III. Instructions to Bidders

IV. Terms and Conditions

V. DBE Participation Plan

VI. Contract Award

VII. Vendor Questionnaire

VIII. Evaluation Criteria

IX. Pricing Proposal

Attachments:

A - Federal Clauses-T&C's

B - General Terms and Conditions

C - Product Data Sheet

D - Attachment C-2026.06.26 BD Technical Specificartions

E - SORTA_ACS_Final_23JUN2026

F - Revised Drawings TY402, TY404, TY405 & TY407

Request For Proposal #072-2026

Title: Access Control System Upgrade

1. Introduction

1.1. Summary

The Access Control System (ACS) requirements for this project shall provide for a complete update of the existing SORTA electronic access control system and migration of the existing ACS into SORTA’s existing Genetec Security Center (version 5.12) unified electronic security management system. Existing sensors and cabling shall be re-used to the greatest extent possible.

• Existing door controllers shall be replaced with Genetec compatible, networked controllers.

• Existing card readers, except for readers at the Huntington Center facility, shall be replaced with new readers.

The contractor/integrator shall pre-test each existing access controlled portal and inspect wiring terminations at the devise and at the headend.

• The contractor shall document any failed equipment or sub-standard wire/terminations.

• The results of the pre-testing shall be assembled in to a pre-testing report, with repair/replacement recommendations, and submitted to the SORTA Project Manager or the SORTA Project

Manager’s representative.

Upon written acceptance of the pre-testing report, the security systems contractor/integrator shall replace the existing door controllers and card readers.

• Defective devices and cabling identified in the contractor’s/integrator’s pre-testing report shall be replaced as approved by the SORTA Project Manager or SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

During the migration of the ACS equipment, but prior to the replacement of the controllers/nodes, the security integrator shall export the existing ACS database, prepare the database as necessary for import into Security Center and complete the database import into Security Center.

1.2. Background

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (“SORTA”), commonly known as Cincinnati Metro, is a regional transit authority established pursuant to Section 306.30 et seq. of the Ohio Revised Code. As such, SORTA is a political subdivision of the State of Ohio.

SORTA delivers a range of public transportation services, including fixed-route mass transit, paratransit, and micro-transit. Its service area encompasses the City of Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and portions of

Butler, Clermont, and Warren Counties.

SORTA operates 48 fixed bus routes, utilizing a fleet of approximately 300 transit buses. In addition, it provides paratransit services with a fleet of 60 vehicles and micro-transit services with 30 vehicles, ensuring accessible and flexible transportation options across the region.

1.3. Contact Information

Angela Meade Procurement Supervisor

1401 Bank Street Cincinnati, OH 45214 Email: ameade@go-metro.com Phone: (513) 632-7516

Department:

Safety

1.4. Timeline

Solicitation Release Date June 23, 2026

Pre-Proposal Meeting (Non-Mandatory) July 1, 2026, 9:00am

Agenda

1401 Bank St., Cincinnati, OH 45214

Deadline to Submit Questions July 9, 2026, 2:00pm

Addendum/Response to

Questions/Clarifications

July 16, 2026, 4:00pm

Proposals Due August 3, 2026, 2:00pm mailto:ameade@go-metro.com tel:(513)632-7516 https://government-project.s3.amazonaws.com/275859/1d7d87e9-9f40-4975-94ee-9d1999ff46a0_072-2026-02-Pre-Proposal_Agenda.pdf

2. Scope of Work

2.1. QUALIFICATIONS

Certified Genetec Channel Partner

• The Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall be a Certified Genetec Channel Partner.

• The Integrator shall submit documentation demonstrating a current Genetec Channel Partner certification.

• Failure to provide adequate documentation for its Genetec Channel Partner certification will be considered as a disqualifying factor for respondents.

Electronic Security Systems Integrator Experience

• The Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall have been continuously engaged in the integration of the components referenced in this RFP for a minimum of five (5) years.

• Submit documentation of required integration experience.

• Failure to provide adequate documentation for access control systems integrations of similar size and complexity will be considered as a disqualifying factor for respondents.

• Installation experience may not be substituted for integration experience.

Electronic Security Systems Integrator Certifications

• The Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall have been continuously certified equipment installer for the proposed manufacturers for a minimum of two (2) years.

• The Integrator shall be responsible for the total installation of all access control equipment and duly qualified to install, configure and maintain each access control system component without support from any party other than equipment manufacturer.

Electronic Security Systems Integrator’s Project Manager

• The Electronic Security Systems Integrator’s Project Manager shall have been continuously engaged in the management of IP and analog access control systems integration projects for a minimum of two (2) years.

• Submit documentation of required Project Management experience for systems of the similar type, size, and design. Include the names, locations, and points of contact of at least three installations of similar type and design.

• Indicate the type of each system and certify that each system has performed satisfactorily in the manner intended for a period of not less than 12 months.

• The Project Manager shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Integrator and have the authority to execute reasonable changes required during the equipment upgrade and integration process without additional approvals.

• The Project Manager shall attend, in person, all coordination and moderate periodic status meetings.

Electronic Security Systems Integrator’s Installer

• Prior to installation activity the Electronic Security System Integrator shall submit data of the installer’s experience and current equipment certifications.

• The Integrator will be required to demonstrate that the equipment installers who will perform the work have a minimum of two (2) years of experience successfully installing access control equipment of the same type and design as specified herein.

• Include the names, locations, and points of contact of at least three installations of the similar type, size, and design as specified herein where the installer has installed such systems.

• Indicate the type of each system and certify that each system has performed satisfactorily in the manner intended for a period of not less than 12 months.

Electronic Security Systems Integrator Instructor

• Prior to the installation the Electronic Security Systems Integrator will be required to submit data of the instructor’s experience.

• Show that the instructor, who will train operating and maintenance personnel, has received a minimum of 40 hours of training from the specified manufacturers, and two (2) years of experience in the installation of systems of the type specified.

2.2. SCHEDULE

Respondents shall include in their proposal a preliminary integrated schedule for all installation, integration and cut-over activities.

Schedule shall be in Gantt chart format depicting each upgrade and integration activity, expected duration for each activity, the proposed start and end dates for each activity, and the critical path for project completion.

The successful respondent will be required to submit a revised schedule for Owner review and approval prior to the commencement of work.

2.3. HUNTINGTON CENTER

The Huntington Center, SORTA’s headquarters, is comprised of two stories of office space in downtown

Cincinnati.

The Huntington Center ACS is comprised of multiple AMAG/Symmetry nodes and door controllers. The existing ACS headend hardware is distributed throughout two equipment rooms; the telecommunications

MDF located on the fifth floor and a telecommunications IDF located on the sixth floor. Huntington

Center has a total of twenty-five (25) existing access controlled doors. One (1) new access controlled door will be added as part of this project. The ACS equipment at the Huntington Center has been installed recently and is in good condition.

The ACS equipment located in the Huntington Center telecommunications MDF (located on the fifth floor) is comprised of three (3) 8-door controllers/nodes.

The ACS equipment located in the Huntington Center telecommunications IDF (located on the sixth floor) is comprised of two (2) 4-door controllers/nodes.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the twenty-five (25) existing access controlled doors to document any faulty access control devices at each door prior to commencing the ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access controlled door. Minor wiring faults uncovered during the pre-test will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project Manager or the SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace each door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. The migration of each intelligent/door controller will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each controller the security integrator shall test each access controlled door and document the results. Each access controlled door shall be returned to functionality prior to progressing to the next controller/node.

During the migration of the ACS equipment, but prior to the replacement of the controllers/nodes, the security integrator shall export the existing ACS database, prepare the database as necessary for import into Security Center and complete the database import into Security Center.

The security integrator shall also provide a badging workstation with camera and badge printer for the

Huntington Center facility.

Upon completion of the database migration and controller/node replacement the security integrator shall test each access controlled portal and record the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance (Operations and Maintenance) submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.4. QUEENSGATE FACILITY

The Queensgate Facility is comprised of three (3) separate buildings; the Transportation Office at the north end, the Parking Bays building in the center, and the Maintenance Garage at the south end of the facility.

The Queensgate ACS is comprised of multiple AMAG/Symmetry nodes and door controllers. The existing ACS head end hardware is distributed throughout three equipment rooms; the facility telecommunications MDF in the Transportation Office building, the Parts Storeroom mechanical mezzanine in the Maintenance Garage building, and the second floor electrical equipment room in the

Maintenance Garage second floor office space. The Queensgate Facility has a total of forty-two (42) existing access controlled doors. Three (3) new access controlled doors will be added as part of this project. The existing ACS equipment at Queensgate has been installed over time and much of the equipment is dated though functional.

The ACS equipment located in the Queensgate Facility MDF (located in the Server Room in the

Transportation Office building) is comprised of seven (7) 2-door controllers/nodes, one (1) 4-door controllers/nodes and one (1) 8-door controller/node.

The ACS equipment located in the Queensgate Maintenance Garage mechanical mezzanine (located at the north end of the Maintenance Garage Parts Storeroom area) is comprised of seven (7) 2-door controllers/nodes and three (3) 4-door controllers/nodes.

The ACS equipment located in the Queensgate Maintenance Garage second floor office space electrical equipment room (located at the south end of the Maintenance Garage) is comprised of a single 8-door controller/node.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the forty-two (42) existing access controlled doors to document any faulty access control devices at each door prior to commencing the

ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project

Manager or the SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace each door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each door controller/node and associated card readers the security integrator shall test each access controlled door and document the results. Each access controlled door shall be returned to functionality prior to progressing to the next controller/node.

During the migration of the ACS equipment, but prior to the replacement of the controllers/nodes, the security integrator shall export the existing ACS database, prepare the database as necessary for import into Security Center and complete the database import into Security Center.

The security integrator shall also provide a badging workstation with camera and badge printer for the

Queensgate Facility.

Upon completion of the database migration and controller/node replacement the security integrator shall test each access controlled portal and record the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.5. BOND HILL FACILITY

The Bond Hill Facility is comprised of one (1) building comprised of general office space, bus parking bays and a maintenance garage.

The Bond Hill ACS is comprised of multiple AMAG/Symmetry nodes and door controllers. The existing

ACS headend hardware is distributed throughout two equipment rooms; one in the second floor office space at the west end of the facility and the electrical equipment mezzanine in the garage area at the east end of the facility. The Bond Hill Facility has a total of twenty-five (25) existing access controlled doors.

The ACS equipment has been installed over time and much of the equipment is dated though functional.

The ACS equipment located in the Bond Hill security equipment room (located on the second floor of the office area at the west end of the facility) is comprised of four (4) 2-door controllers/nodes and four (4) 4-door controllers/nodes.

The ACS equipment located in the Bond Hill electrical equipment mezzanine (located in the maintenance garage area at the east end of the facility) is comprised of one (1) 2-door controller/node and one (1) 4-door controller/node.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the twenty-five (25) access controlled doors to document any faulty access control devices at each door prior to commencing the

ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project

Manager or the SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace each door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the existing Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each door controller/node and associated card readers the security integrator shall test each access controlled door and document the results. Each access controlled door shall be returned to functionality prior to progressing to the next controller/node.

During the migration of the ACS equipment, but prior to the replacement of the controllers/nodes, the security integrator shall export the existing ACS database, prepare the database as necessary for import into Security Center and complete the database import into Security Center.

The security integrator shall also provide a badging workstation with camera and badge printer for the

Bond Hill Facility.

Upon completion of the database migration and controller/node replacement the security integrator shall test each access controlled portal and record the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.6. ACCESS FACILITY

The Access Facility is comprised of one (1) building with general office space, bus parking bays and a maintenance garage.

The Access Facility ACS is comprised of multiple AMAG/Symmetry nodes and door controllers. The existing ACS headend hardware is located in the facility’s Server Room located in the front office space

(north end of the facility). The Access Facility has a total of thirteen (13) existing access controlled doors. The ACS equipment has been installed over time and much of the equipment is dated though functional.

The ACS equipment located in the Access Facility Server Room (located in the front Office area at the north end of the facility) is comprised of one (1) 2-door controllers/nodes and three (3) 4-door controllers/nodes.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the thirteen (13) access controlled doors to document any faulty access control devices at each door prior to commencing the ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project Manager or the

SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace each door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each door controller/node the security integrator shall test each access controlled door and document the results. Each access controlled door shall be returned to functionality prior to progressing to the next controller/node.

During the migration of the ACS equipment, but prior to the replacement of the controllers/nodes, the security integrator shall export the existing ACS database, prepare the database as necessary for import into Security Center and complete the database import into Security Center.

The security integrator shall also provide a badging workstation with camera and badge printer for the

Access Facility.

Upon completion of the database migration and controller/node replacement the security integrator shall test each access controlled portal and record the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.7. RIVERFRONT TRANSIT CENTER

The Riverfront Transit Center is a small satellite facility located in the lower level of the central riverfront development (The Banks) adjacent to the Central Riverfront Garage in downtown Cincinnati.

The Riverfront Transit Center ACS is comprised of one (1) AMAG/Symmetry 2-door controller. The

Riverfront Transit Center has a total of two (2) access-controlled doors. The ACS equipment at the

Riverfront Transit Center has been installed relatively recently and is in fair condition.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the two (2) access-controlled doors to document any faulty access-control devices at each door prior to commencing the ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access-controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project Manager or the

SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace the door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each door controller/node the security integrator shall test each access-controlled door and document the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.8. NORTHSIDE TRANSIT CENTER

The Northside Transit Center is a small satellite facility located in the Northside suburb of Cincinnati.

The Northside Transit Center ACS is comprised of one (1) AMAG/Symmetry 4-door controller. The

Northside Transit Center has a total of two (2) access-controlled doors. The ACS equipment at the

Northside Transit Center has been installed recently and is in good condition.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the two (2) access-controlled doors to document any faulty access-control devices at each door prior to commencing the ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access-controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project Manager or the

SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace the door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of the door controller/node the security integrator shall test each access-controlled door and document the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.9. GLENWAY CROSSING TRANSIT CENTER

The Glenway Crossing Transit Center is a small satellite facility located in the Western Hills suburb of

Cincinnati.

The Glenway Crossing Transit Center ACS is comprised of one (1) AMAG/Symmetry 4-door node/controller. The Glenway Crossing Transit Center has a total of three (3) access controlled doors.

The ACS equipment at the Glenway Crossing Transit Center has been installed relatively recently and is in fair condition.

Scope of Work

The security integrator will be required to conduct a pre-test of each of the three (3) access controlled doors to document any faulty access control devices at each door prior to commencing the ACS upgrade. During the pre-testing the security integrator will be required to conduct a visual inspection of the wiring/wire terminations for each ACS device at each access controlled door. Minor wiring faults will be corrected during the pre-testing phase. Equipment failures and major wiring faults, along with recommendations for remediation, shall be recorded and reported to the SORTA Project Manager or the

SORTA Project Manager’s representative.

Upon acceptance/approval of the pre-testing report and system shop drawings the security integrator will be required to replace each door controller with a new equivalent door controller from a manufacturer that is compatible with the Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Likewise, the security integrator shall replace each access control card reader. The migration of each door controller/node will be closely coordinated with the SORTA Security and IT teams. The equipment replacement and testing will be preplanned and scheduled to minimize downtime and interruption to SORTA’s business operations. Night and/or weekend work may be required.

Upon completion of the replacement of each door controller/node the security integrator shall test each access controlled door and document the results for submission to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. The final, approved test record shall be included in the Operations and

Maintenance submittal.

The security integrator shall provide maintenance and operations training for SORTA Security, Maintenance and IT staff.

As a bid alternate, the Electronic Security Systems Integrator shall provide a price/proposal for a five (5) year maintenance period for the new equipment. The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer and periodic updating of equipment firmware.

2.10. CLOSEOUT

At or near substantial completion of the SORTA Access Control Systems Alterations project, the Security

Systems Integrator will prepare and submit to the SORTA Project Manager record drawings, operations and maintenance manual(s) and warrantee certificates.

The Security Systems Integrator will prepare Access Control System record drawings including, but not limited to, updated floor plans indicating the location of each access controlled door and the ACS equipment type at each door, the location and type of equipment at each equipment headend location, enlarged floor plans and elevations indicating the arrangement of all ACS equipment at each headend location, a schematic singleline diagram of the enterprise wide access control system depicting the major

ACS equipment items and their connectivity, detailed wiring diagrams for each ACS enclosure and final equipment schedules. The record drawings will be submitted to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. Approval of the record drawings shall be obtained prior to final completion so as not to delay final acceptance, final payment and closeout of the project.

The Security Systems Integrator will assemble an operations and maintenance manual(s) to include, but not limited to, manufacturer’s installation and user manuals for each type of equipment used in the access control system, pre-testing reports for each of the SORTA facilities, performance verification/acceptance test report for each of the SORTA facilities and a complete Bill of Materials (including make, model and available serial numbers) for each item of equipment installed during the upgrade. The operations and maintenance manual(s) shall be submitted to the SORTA Project Manager for review and comment/approval. Approval of the Operations and Maintenance manuals shall be obtained prior to final completion so as not to delay the final acceptance, final payment and closeout of the project.

The Security Systems Integrator will provide all warrantee certificates/documentation to the Owner for each new equipment item installed during the Access Control System upgrade. Warrantee certificates/documentation shall be submitted prior to final completion so as not to delay the final acceptance, final payment and closeout of the project.

2.11. MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT

The awarded contractor shall provide a five (5) maintenance and support for all equipment, hardware, and software.

• The five (5) year maintenance proposal shall include:

o preventative maintenance as recommended by the equipment manufacturer o periodic updating of equipment firmware

• Response times for maintenance and support must comply with the below schedule:

Priority Level Description Response Time

P1-Critical System down, major business impact, no workaround available.

15 minutes

P2-High Significant impact, partial system outage, workaround available.

1 hour

P3-Medium Moderate impact, non-critical issue, business operations continue

4 hours

P4-Low Minor issue, cosmetic defect, general inquiry. 1 business day

2.12. WARRANTY

Contractor shall provide a standard manufacturer's warranty on all purchased equipment, hardware, and software.

Please provide information regarding standard warranty coverage (i.e., term, what is included in coverage) and additional optional coverage (i.e. extended warranty) in your bid.

• The warranty must include all materials, equipment, parts, tools, labor, and incidentals.

• Warranty shall cover complete repairs or replacements, and site visits, as necessary.

2.13. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

LOCATION ADDRESS

Huntington Center 525 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Queensgate 1401 Bank St., Cincinnati, OH 45214

Bond Hill 4700 Paddock Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45229

Access 1801 Transpark Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45229

Riverfront Transit Center (RTC) 220 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Northside Transit Center (NTC) 4041 Spring Grove Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Glenway Crossing Transit Center 5142 Glencrossing Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

3. Instructions to Bidders

3.1. Proposal Preparation Cost

SORTA will not reimburse proposers for any costs incurred in the preparation and submittal of proposals or participation in the evaluation and negotiation process.

3.2. Proposal Format

Proposals shall be submitted in two (2) volumes. Proposers must prepare a completed Technical Proposal, Volume 1, (as described in the Proposal Contents section) and Business Proposal, Volume II. Until further notice, The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) will accept only electronic submittals through the e-Procurement Portal (https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/go-metro) in response to this solicitation. No hard copy submittals will be accepted. Any required notarizations shall be done by a licensed notary or by an online notary pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 147.60 et seq.; a listing of such notaries may be found on the Ohio Secretary of State website:

Online Notary Search

No price or price-related information shall appear in the Technical Proposal, Volume 1.

Proposals must be received no later than 2:00 pm on Monday, August 3, 2026 (EST). Late proposals will not be accepted, except as described below.

3.3. Proposal Contents

The proposal should be prepared using the following format:

Technical Proposal (Volume 1)

1. Cover Letter

Cover letter should identify the prime contractor and all subcontractors, if any. The letter should also include the officer or other responsible executives of the proposer authorized to negotiate and agree to a contract. This individual shall serve as SORTA’s point of contact for all communications regarding this solicitation. The cover letter should identify this individual by name, title, address, telephone, facsimile and email contact information. The letter should also contain a commitment that the proposed pricing will be valid for not less than 120 days from the above deadline for receipt of proposals or any extension thereof.

2. Project Approach

This section shall describe the proposer’s approach to providing the services requested per the scope, understanding SORTA’s requirements for this project, and reflecting its experience in performing similar contracts for other clients. Proposers may offer an alternative solution to the requirements specified in the scope of work herein, provided that such alternative meets

SORTA’s needs as described herein.

3. Firm Qualifications, Experience, and References

This section should contain a description of the proposing firm’s prior and current experience as https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/go-metro https://notarysearch.ohiosos.gov/ords/f?p=ENSEARCH:SEARCH:17095144172250:::1::

it pertains to services similar to those required hereunder. It should include a list of all similar assignments undertaken in the past five (5) years, identifying the duration, the client, and the scope of the contract. Contact information (name, title, mailing address, and email, telephone and fax numbers) for each client should be included. Provide a summary of the firm’s qualifications, general information about the firm, location of office(s), years in business and areas of expertise.

4. Staffing (Qualifications, Experience, and Availability)

Identify key staff and include a description of their abilities, qualifications and experience. Attach resumes of key staff to be assigned to this project. Include a proposed project management structure and organization chart. Please list the number of full-time staff by discipline. Identify any portion of the scope of work that would be subcontracted. Include firm qualifications and key personnel, telephone number and contact person for all subcontractors. SORTA/Metro reserves the right to approve or reject any internal staff or subcontractors proposed by the firm.

No price or price-related information shall appear in the Technical Proposal, Volume 1.

Business Proposal (Volume 2)

1. Cover Letter

A copy of the cover letter from Volume 1 should be included.

2. Insurance Certificates

This section should include copies of the proposer’s worker’s compensation, general liability, automobile insurance, Crime coverage (including theft, fraud and computer fraud), and

Professional Liability/Errors and Omissions insurance certificates

3. Property Tax Affidavit

4. Anti-Lobbying Certificates

No price or price related information shall appear in the Business Proposal, Volume 2.

Price will be requested in a separate section

3.4. Price Proposal

1. Price Proposal

Provide a price proposal using the #Pricing Proposal. The Price Proposal must be completed on behalf of the proposer. No pricing or price-related information should appear elsewhere in any of the proposals. You will confirm your price within the Vendor Questionnaire. A detailed pricing sheet should be uploaded within the Vendor Questionnaire.

Price-related information shall only appear in the requested pricing sheet and as requested in the

Vendor Questionnaire.

3.5. Proposal Clarity and Conciseness

SORTA requests that proposers submit a single concise proposal, clearly addressing the evaluation criteria and information requested herein. Overly elaborate proposals and proposals containing only generalized marketing information are discouraged and may result in a lower evaluation score.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/go-metro/projects/275859/document?section=2660733

3.6. Proposal Validity Period

Proposals, including any modification thereof, shall remain valid for not less than 120 days from the date established for receipt by SORTA.

3.7. Late Submissions, Modifications and Withdrawals of Offers

Any proposal, modification, or revision, that is received through the e-Procurement portal after the exact time specified for receipt of proposals is “late” and will not be considered.

Any submission received after the exact date and time specified will not be considered unless it is received before award is made, the contracting officer determines that accepting the late proposal would not unduly delay the acquisition; and there is acceptable evidence to establish that an error occurred while attempting submission prior to designated time for receipt of proposals; or it was the only proposal received. However, a late modification of an otherwise successful proposal, that makes its terms more favorable to SORTA, will be considered at any time it is received and may be accepted.

Acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt will show electronically once the proposal is uploaded in the e-Procurement Portal on https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/go-metro.

If an emergency or unanticipated event interrupts normal SORTA processes, so that proposals cannot be received in the SORTA e-Procurement portal designated for receipt of proposals by the exact time specified in the solicitation and urgent SORTA requirements preclude amendment of the solicitation closing date, the time specified for receipt of proposals will be deemed to be extended to the same time of day specified in the solicitation on the date to be determined by SORTA.

Proposers may withdraw a proposal or modification thereof electronically via the e-Procurement Portal at any time prior to the time specified for receipt of proposals or modifications. A proposal or modification may be resubmitted prior to the time specified for receipt.

3.8. Questions Concerning This Solicitation

Any questions regarding this solicitation shall be submitted through the e-Procurement Portal no later than 2:00 pm on Thursday, July 9, 2026 (EST). Telephoned questions will not be accepted. Proposers shall not contact any other SORTA personnel regarding any aspect of this solicitation. Any proposer found to have had such contact shall be barred from participation in this solicitation and any subsequent contract, either as a prime contractor or subcontractors.

SORTA anticipates that responses to questions submitted will be provided to all known proposers by 4:00 pm on Thursday, July 16, 2026. If the responses materially alter the terms of this solicitation, they will be incorporated in an amendment to the solicitation. No communication by SORTA or any of its Trustees, officers, employees, agents or representatives shall alter the terms of this solicitation or bind SORTA in any manner, unless incorporated in such an amendment.

3.9. Exceptions to Contractual Terms

The proposer may identify any proposed exceptions to SORTA’s Terms and Conditions as contained in this RFP or propose any additional terms it considers appropriate. Such proposed exceptions or additional terms must be specific and include a clear explanation of the reasons for the exception or addition. Please note that certain of the terms contained herein are required by law or regulation and cannot be modified.

You must submit your exceptions to Terms and Conditions in the Vendor Questionnaire.

3.10. MetroMAX Small Business Mission Statement

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) has established a Small and Disadvantaged

Business Enterprise program that encourages diversity and inclusion on all contracts. It is the policy of

SORTA to promote equal opportunity and fairness in all its procurement matters, in accordance with state and federal laws, so that small and disadvantaged businesses have an equal opportunity to receive and participate in all contracts. It is also our policy to:

1. Ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of contracts;

2. Create a level playing field on which small and disadvantaged businesses can compete fairly for

SORTA contracts;

3. Help remove barriers to the participation of small and disadvantaged businesses in SORTA contracts; and

4. Assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside of

SORTA’s small and disadvantaged business program.

SORTA is committed to fostering small and disadvantaged business participation in contracting opportunities. As such, bidders/proposers are expected to make reasonable efforts to support inclusivity in staffing and subcontracting, to support SORTA’s mission.

3.11. Evaluation Process and Criteria

Proposals timely received by SORTA will be evaluated by an evaluation team established by SORTA in accordance with the criteria set forth below. Following an initial evaluation, SORTA may advance to a second evaluation phase those firms that are determined to fall within a highly competitive range. The highly competitive range is defined as those firms whose aggregated subjective criteria scores are less than 5 percent of the total possible points from the highest scoring firm.

As part of the second evaluation phase, SORTA may provide targeted questions and conduct interviews in order to clarify information contained in submitted proposals. Interviews may be virtual or in person and may include oral/visual presentations and/or product demonstrations. SORTA reserves the right to determine the proposal believed to add the best value to the agency based on the outcome of the second evaluation phase.

SORTA reserves the right to negotiate with proposers in the highly competitive range without conducting interviews or issuing targeted questions. Following such negotiations, SORTA may request one or more of the firms in the highly competitive range to submit a Best and Final Offer, which will be evaluated by the evaluation team and a firm selected for award.

SORTA reserves the right to accept proposals other than the lowest cost offered, reject any and all proposals, or to negotiate separately with any proposer or proposers as deemed to be in SORTA’s best interest. SORTA also reserves the right to waive informalities, make an award on the basis of initial proposals received without discussions or negotiations. Initial proposals, therefore, should represent the proposers’ best effort to meet SORTA’s needs at a reasonable price.

Proposals will be reviewed and evaluated at each step of the process based upon the following criteria in relative order of importance:

SEE HYPERLINK FOR DETAILED EVALUATION CRITERIA

• #Evaluation Criteria

3.12. Verification of Proposer Responsibility

SORTA may undertake such investigations as it deems necessary to determine the ability of each

Proposer to perform the work, and the Proposer shall furnish to SORTA all such information and data as

SORTA may request for this purpose. SORTA reserves the right to reject any proposal if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such proposer fails to satisfy SORTA that such proposer is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the contract and to complete the work required, hereunder.

SORTA may require the proposer to submit any of the following information as part of the evaluation process:

(1) proposer’s performance record;

(2) proposer's certified, audited financial statements for up to three (3) prior years; and

(3) such additional information as will satisfy SORTA that the Proposer is adequately prepared to fulfill the contract.

SORTA also reserves the right to verify a proposer’s indirect cost rates, such as provisional overhead

(burden) and General & Administrative (G&A) rates, before or after award of a contract. In this connection, SORTA may request the proposer to provide copies of undisputed audits of the proposed by

(1) other FTA grantees;

(2) the federal government; or

(3) state government.

3.13. Contract Award

Award will be made to the firm(s) whose proposal, in SORTA’s sole judgment, is considered to be most advantageous to SORTA, cost and all other factors considered. SORTA reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to permit or waive minor informalities, irregularities and errors in proposals.

SORTA may elect to make an award on the basis of initial proposals or to proceed with the evaluation process defined herein.

3.14. Protests

SORTA’s policy and procedure for the administrative resolution of protests is set forth in §3.10 of

SORTA’s Procurement Procedures Manual (PPM). The PPM contains rules for the filing and administration of protests. SORTA shall furnish a copy of §3.10 upon request. The policy and procedure is available on SORTA’s website at:

Microsoft Word - Metro Protest Procedure (9.23)

An interested party wishing to protest a matter involving a proposed procurement or contract award, shall file a written submission with the Director of Procurement by certified mail or other delivery method by which receipt can be verified.