2026-RFP -3

MICROTRANSIT, PARATRANSIT AND TURNKEY

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

NEORide

One Park Center Drive

Wadsworth, OH 44281

RELEASE DATE: October 12, 2026

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS: October 23, 2026

RESPONSE DEADLINE: November 20, 2026, 4:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/neoride

NEORide

Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services

I. LEGAL NOTICE

II. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

III. SCOPE OF WORK

IV. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PROVISIONS

V. PROPOSAL EVALUATION & CONTRACT AWARD

VI. EVALUATION CRITERIA

VII. GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

VIII. FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION (FTA) REQUIREMENTS

IX. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION (VENDOR FORMS & ATTACHMENTS)

Attachments:

A - Sample_MSA

B - NEORide Turnkey Microtransit Requirements

C - NEORide Mobility Platform Price Sheet

D - NEORide Turnkey Service Price Sheet

E - NEORide SaaS Requirements

F - NEORide Mobility Platform and Turnkey SOW

G - Sample Participation_Agreement

#2026-RFP -3

Title: Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services

1. LEGAL NOTICE

Monday, October 12, 2026

Request for Proposals

Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services

RFP #2026-RFP -3

1.1. Summary

NEORide is seeking proposals for a Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services. The scope of work/specifications is outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP). The successful Proposer shall meet the terms and conditions set forth in this document and all other attachments.

All interested contractors must register as detailed in the solicitation. All questions should be submitted electronically via the Portal’s Question and Answer (Q&A) tab.

All proposals must be received electronically on or before Friday, November 20, 2026 at 4:00 pm (EST) via the Portal

The right is reserved to accept any proposal/bid or any part or parts thereof or to reject any and all proposals/bids. Acceptance of any proposal/bid is subject to concurrence by the Ohio Department of

Transportation and the United States Department of Transportation.

Any contract resulting from these proposals may be subject to financial assistance contract between

NEORide, its partner agencies and the United States Department of Transportation and the Ohio

Department of Transportation. Agreements are established through free, full, and open competition as described by the laws of the State of Ohio and are available for other NEORide entities anywhere in the

United States, subject to each entity’s jurisdictional law and regulation. A Master Service Agreement will be developed with NEORide (a sample MSA can be found as attachment A). NEORide or its partner agencies wishing to utilize the contract will complete a partnership agreement (a sample partnership agreement can be round as attachment G) accepting the terms and pricing of the master service agreement. Billing can be done either directly to the NEORide agencies or to NEORide itself depending on the terms of the agreement.

• NEORide hereby notifies all proposers that, regarding any contract entered into pursuant to this

RFP, advertisement or solicitation, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit proposals in response and will not be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex or national origin in consideration for an award.

Purchasing Procedures:

• Agreements are established through free, full, and open competition as described by the laws of the State of Ohio and are available as a cooperative agreement for other NEORide members anywhere in the United States, subject to each entity’s jurisdictional law and regulation. Purchase orders or participation agreements are issued by participating governmental entities directly to the

Vendor or vendor-assigned dealer. A copy of the purchase orders or participation agreement are sent to NEORide offices where they are reviewed by NEORide staff and forwarded to the

Vendor. In some instances, the entity may send the purchase orders or equivalent directly to the vendor and report the purchase to NEORide.

• Note: It is always the vendor's responsibility to report all sales under the agreement to NEORide.

1.2. Background

NEORIDE is a Council of Governments with the goal of supporting coordinated public transit. NEORIDE has a membership of over 45 regional transit agencies in 13 states. The 45 plus agencies that comprise NEORIDE run ahead of the curve in many aspects of public transportation from innovative program development and multi-county transit coordination.

NEORide is releasing this request for proposal (RFP) to procure microtransit, paratransit, and turnkey transportation services will be made available to all NEORide Members through a Master Services Agreement.

NEORide's procurement is funded through an administration fee of 1% paid to NEORide by the awarded contractors. This fee will only apply to participation agreements signed by partner agencies and not should NEORide itself elect to use the agreement. The fee is based on the actual vendor projects sales. The vendor will pay the fee on the actual invoices and paid sales by the NEORide participant. Fees are not assessed to vendors for shipping costs, required bond costs, or any taxes that may be applicable.

1.3. Contact Information

Project Contact:

Katherine Conrad Executive Director One Park Centre Dr., Suite 300 Wadsworth, OH 44281 Email: katherinec@neoride.org Phone: (330) 334-6877

Procurement Contact:

Michelle Robinson Development and Compliance Specialist 1 Park Centre Dr Ste 300 Wadsworth, OH 44281 Email: micheller@neoride.org Phone: (330) 819-4166

Department:

NEORide

Department Head:

Katherine Conrad Executive Director

1.4. Timeline

Procurement Schedule mailto:katherinec@neoride.org tel:(330)334-6877 mailto:micheller@neoride.org tel:(330)819-4166

Project Posted October 12, 2026

Deadline for questions, clarifications and approved equal requests:

October 23, 2026, 5:00pm

Deadline for responses to questions/clarifications and approved equals:

October 30, 2026, 5:00pm

Proposals due: November 20, 2026, 4:00pm

2. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

2.1. Purpose

This solicitation seeks bidders for: Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services. The

Contract shall be awarded for three years (3) year, commencing in 2027 with up to three (2) options to renew.. Bidders must specify a fixed cost for each line item on the #PRICING SHEET herein.

NEORide follows a procurement process that ensures free and open competition and requires that prices be verified as fair and reasonable.

2.2. Terminology

“Proposal” or "Bid" refers to the document drafted and submitted by the Proposer(s) in response to the

Request for Proposal (RFP).

“Proposer” (also referred to as "Contractor") refers to the entity submitting the Proposal.

"NEORide" or "Agency" is the government entity who is soliciting proposals with this RFP.

“Request for Proposals” (or "RFP") refers to the document prepared by NEORide which outlines the scope of work of the Contractor’s project and is used to solicit proposals for the project.

2.3. Solicitation Monitoring

All interested proposers must follow the solicitation in the e-Procurement Portal once it is posted.

Only Proposers who follow the solicitation will receive copies of questions, answers, addenda and notices.

2.4. Proposal Submission

All proposals are due NO LATER THAN 4:00 pm on Friday, November 20, 2026. Proposals received after the scheduled due date and time for submission will not be accepted. Proposals submitted in any other format other than via the Portal, including but not limited to, hard copy (mailed or hand delivered), facsimile, or emailed submittals, will NOT be accepted, nor considered. The scheduled due date and time for submission will be scrupulously observed.

NEORide will not be responsible for untimely submissions due to personal or company internet or hardware limitations, settings or restrictions, internet speed, power outage, network connection, or use of a malfunctioning electronic device, or the like, neither NEORide, nor the Software Administrator

(OpenGov), will be held responsible. Proposers shall be solely responsible for ensuring the capability of their computer system while responding to this RFP, and for the stability of their internet service.

Uploading large documents may take significant time depending on the size of the file(s) and the Internet connection speed that the Proposer is using to submit a response. Failure of the Proposer to successfully submit an electronic Proposal before the deadline indicated herein shall be at the Proposer’s sole risk, and no relief will be given for late and/or improperly submitted Proposals. Once file(s) have been uploaded and the Submission Status shows as “Submitted” the submission is complete. At that point, the Proposer will also receive an email confirmation from the Portal.

2.5. Proposal Requirements

Proposals shall be prepared in a clear, concise, and economical manner according to the requirements in the #PROPOSAL SUBMISSION (VENDOR FORMS & ATTACHMENTS) section. As Pricing is https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/4328/portal/butlercountyrta/projects/275982/document?section=2661790 https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/4328/portal/butlercountyrta/projects/275982/document?section=2661785 submitted in a separate section (#PRICING SHEET), pricing information must not be included in the body of the submission. Proposal pages, if applicable, shall be numbered sequentially and include a table of contents with headings that references relevant page numbers. Any information the Proposer submits is expected to be concise and relevant to the RFP.

Proposals that do not adhere to the requirements of Proposal Submission, are difficult to read or are deemed otherwise illegible by NEORide may be rejected.

2.6. Postponement or Cancellation of Request for Proposals

NEORide reserves the right to cancel, amend, or re-issue this RFP at any time, or change the date and time for submitting proposals, by announcing same prior to the date and time established for Proposal submittal. This Announcement will be made via Notice or Addenda in the Portal.

2.7. Questions and Requests for Clarification

No oral interpretations as to the meaning of the RFP will be made to any Proposer. Any explanation desired by a Proposer regarding the meaning or interpretation of the RFP or its contents, questions about the process and any other requests for clarification of the RFP should be directed to the Procurement department at NEORide via the Portal’s Question and Answer (Q&A) tab prior to the deadline for questions, clarifications and approved equal requests mentioned above. No other method of submission will be accepted or considered.

Any interpretation or change made will be in the form of a Notice or an addendum to the RFP as appropriate and will be released as promptly as is practicable to all parties who are following the RFP no later than Friday, October 30, 2026. All addenda will become part of the RFP and any subsequently awarded Contract. Oral explanations, statements, or instructions given by NEORide before the award of the Contract will not be binding upon NEORide.

2.8. Addenda

Receipt and review of Addenda by each Proposer must be acknowledged electronically via the Portal.

2.9. Examination of RFP and Contract Documents - Services

Proposers are expected to examine the scope of services required, schedules, and additional instructions, if any. Failure to do so will be at the Proposer's risk. It is the intent of these specifications to provide services of first quality, and the workmanship must be the best obtainable in the various trades. The services, which the vendor proposes to provide, must be high quality in all respects. No advantage will be taken by Contractor or vendor in the omission of any part or detail, which goes to make the services complete. It is the sole responsibility of Contractor to read the scope requirements and understand them.

The submission of a Proposal shall constitute an acknowledgment upon which NEORide may rely that the

Proposer has thoroughly examined and is familiar with the solicitation, including any work site identified in the RFP, and has reviewed and inspected all applicable statutes, regulations, ordinances, and resolutions addressing or relating to the services to be provided hereunder. The failure or neglect of a

Proposer to receive or examine such documents, work sites, statutes, regulations, ordinances, or resolutions shall in no way relieve the Proposer from any obligations with respect to its Proposal or to any

Contract awarded pursuant to this RFP. No claim for additional compensation will be allowed which is https://procurement.opengov.com/governments/4328/portal/butlercountyrta/projects/275982/document?section=2661790 based on lack of knowledge or misunderstanding of this RFP, work sites, statutes, regulations, ordinances, or resolutions.

2.10. Cost of Proposals

NEORide is not liable for any costs incurred by Proposers in the preparation, presentation, testing, or negotiation of Proposals submitted in response to this solicitation.

3. SCOPE OF WORK

3.1. Purpose

NEORide is seeking proposals for a Microtransit, Paratransit and Turnkey Transportation Services together with turnkey service delivery as described in the applicable requirements. The procurement covers the technology and operational services needed to configure, implement, operate, and support agency specific services.

NEORide intends to select up to two (2) vendors through this procurement. Each selected vendor shall provide both the Mobility Platform supporting microtransit and ADA paratransit booking, scheduling, and dispatch, and the turnkey microtransit services described in this RFP.

The Mobility Platform includes the following:

• Central dispatch and administration

• Vehicle and operator applications

• Rider mobile and web applications

• Reporting

• Trip booking and scheduling

• Third-party provider management

• ADA paratransit eligibility

• Operations

• Billing

Required integrations include EZfare, GTFS Flex and trip planning, and EZConnect. Implementation includes project management, design, configuration, testing, documentation, training, and data migration.

Turnkey Services include the following:

• Mobilization and transition

• Vehicles and accessible fleet capacity

• Operators

• Maintenance

• Facilities

• Human dispatch

• Customer service

• Safety and compliance

• Performance reporting

• Billing support

• Service closeout

Services shall follow each Participating Agency's configuration and the applicable requirements.

The contract term and anticipated start date are stated above. NEORide seeks free and open competition and requires prices to be fair and reasonable. Proposers shall complete the applicable pricing sheets and identify assumptions, exclusions, and proposed exceptions.

3.2. Terminology

Proposal or Bid: The response submitted to this Request for Proposals.

Proposer: The entity submitting a Proposal. Contractor means the entity responsible for performance under an awarded contract.

NEORide: The organization issuing this solicitation.

Participating Agency: A transit agency using the contracted platform or services and establishing its agency-specific service configuration.

RFP: This Request for Proposals, including requirements, pricing sheets, attachments, and addenda.

Mobility Platform: The software, applications, integrations, and related implementation and support services described in the platform requirements.

Turnkey Services: The operational services described in the turnkey requirements, using the Mobility

Platform for service delivery.

3.3. Solicitation Monitoring

Interested Proposers shall follow the solicitation in NEORide's e-Procurement Portal (Open Gov) to receive questions, answers, addenda, and notices. Proposers are responsible for monitoring the Portal and reviewing all updates before submitting a Proposal.

3.4. Proposal Submission

Proposals must be submitted through the Portal by the proposal due date and time stated above. Late submissions will not be accepted. Hard-copy, hand-delivered, faxed, or emailed proposals will not be accepted.

Proposers are responsible for their equipment, internet access, uploads, and timely submission. Allow sufficient upload time and confirm that the Portal shows the status as Submitted. Equipment or connection problems do not excuse a late or incomplete response.

3.5. Proposal Requirements

Follow the RFP's Proposal Submission requirements. Provide a clear, concise response with sequential page numbers and a table of contents. Submit pricing in the designated Pricing Sheet section, separate from the technical proposal.

Explain how the solution meets the requirements and how the platform and operating services will work together. Identify subcontractors and non-dedicated providers, implementation and transition plans, agency responsibilities, and exceptions. Distinguish required functionality from optional items.

Complete the pricing sheets as follows:

• Mobility Platform pricing: Provide fixed one-time costs, annual license fees, and totals for the listed system components and implementation activities. Provide monthly and annual costs per active vehicle for each NEORide-wide vehicle tier: 1-100, 101-300, 301-600, and 601 or more active vehicles. Explain vendor assumptions and exclusions.

• Platform options: Provide the requested unit pricing for refresher training, a test environment, TappPay Ride integration, custom reports, and native electronic payment transactions. Identify how these prices relate to functionality already required in the base scope so that required services are not charged twice.

• Turnkey start-up costs: Provide quantities, unit costs, and totals for mobilization, workforce readiness, vehicles and facilities, dispatch and customer service setup, and compliance and launch activities.

• Turnkey operating rates: Provide an initial rate and annual escalation percentage for each separately billable item. Otherwise, select Included in base rate or Not applicable. Use the billing units specified in the sheet and identify assumptions and exclusions, including any separately charged non-revenue time, mileage, fleet, staffing, or administrative support.

Turnkey pricing shall exclude Mobility Platform software, applications, licenses, configuration, integrations, data migration, and software support priced elsewhere in the RFP. Explain the coverage of each rate and avoid duplicate charges across the platform and turnkey sheets.

Prices shall include everything required to deliver the specified functionality and services, including applicable components, licenses, equipment, warranties, and support. Use the quantities and service assumptions provided in the RFP. If a required item is not separately listed, include its cost in the closest applicable line and explain the allocation.

Platform prices shall remain valid through acceptance. Maintenance and support prices apply after acceptance and remain valid for the first year, subject to the stated escalation rate thereafter. Include required agency configuration in the base price. Identify proposed exceptions with a fee schedule covering the contract and renewal periods. NEORide may add or delete service or equipment quantities at the specified prices during the contract term.

3.6. Postponement or Cancellation of RFP

NEORide may cancel, amend, or reissue this RFP, or change the proposal submission date and time, by posting a notice or addendum in the Portal before the established submission deadline.

3.7. Questions and Requests for Clarification

Submit questions about the requirements, pricing sheets, submission process, or interpretation of this RFP through the Portal's Question and Answer tab by the questions deadline stated above. No other method of submission will be accepted. Oral explanations do not modify the RFP and are not binding on NEORide.

3.8. Addenda

Interpretations or changes to the RFP will be issued through a notice or addendum in the Portal. Addenda form part of the RFP and any resulting contract. Each Proposer shall review and electronically acknowledge receipt of all addenda through the Portal before submitting its Proposal.

3.9. Approved Equal

Where the specifications name a product or brand, an alternative may be proposed only through the approved-equal process. Submit the request through the Portal's Question and Answer tab using the designated form, with specifications and supporting information demonstrating equivalent or better functionality and compatibility with the required integrations.

Requests must be received at least ten calendar days before the proposal due date. NEORide will approve or reject a request at least seven calendar days before that date. Include NEORide's written approval with the Proposal. Unapproved substitutions or conditional qualifications may be grounds for rejection.

3.10. Examination of RFP and Contract Documents

Proposers shall examine the complete RFP, both applicable requirements workbooks and pricing sheets, agency-specific service information, attachments, and addenda. Review the responsibilities for platform delivery, operational services, integrations, equipment, support, and transition, and identify any proposed exception in the response.

The Contractor remains responsible for its supplied equipment, software, services, and subcontracted work. Agency-specific configurations shall not override applicable accessibility, ADA, safety, or other legal requirements. Submission of a Proposal acknowledges that the Proposer understands the solicitation and the conditions affecting performance. Lack of knowledge or misunderstanding of the RFP does not justify additional compensation.

3.11. Cost of Proposals

NEORide is not liable for costs incurred in preparing, presenting, testing, or negotiating a Proposal submitted in response to this solicitation.

3.12. 3.12 Location of RFP Services

Services shall be performed within the United States. Turnkey operations shall be delivered within the service areas and facilities designated by the applicable Participating Agency. The Proposal shall identify the locations used for implementation, operations, customer service, and support.

4. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PROVISIONS

4.1. Modification or Withdrawal of Proposals Prior to Submittal Date and Late Proposals

At any time prior to the Proposal opening, a Bidder may withdraw or modify its Proposal in the Portal.

Any Proposal or modification of Proposal received after the exact time specified for Proposal receipt will not be considered.

4.2. Errors and Administrative Corrections

NEORide will not be responsible for any errors in Proposals. Bidders will only be allowed to alter

Proposals after the submittal deadline in response to requests for clarifications by NEORide. NEORide reserves the right to request an extension of the procurement period from Proposers.

NEORide reserves the right to allow corrections or amendments to be made that are due to minor administrative errors or irregularities, such as errors in typing, transposition or similar administrative errors. Other changes or requests made by the Proposers must be sent to the Procurement Contact and initialed by the person signing the Proposal.

4.3. Compliance with RFP Terms and Attachments

NEORide intends to award a Contract based on the terms, conditions, and attachments contained in this

RFP. Proposers are strongly advised to not take any exceptions. Proposers shall submit Proposals which respond to the requirements of the RFP. An exception is not a response to an RFP requirement. If an exception is taken, a “Notice of Exception” must be submitted with the Proposal. The “Notice of

Exception” must identify the specific point or points of exception and provide an alternative.

Proposers are cautioned that exceptions to the terms, conditions, and attachments may deem the

Submission non-responsive and result in rejection of the Proposal.

4.4. Collusion

The Proposer guarantees that the Proposal submitted is not a product of collusion with any other

Proposer, and no effort has been made to fix the Proposal price of any Proposer or to fix any overhead, profit, or cost element of any Proposal price.

If NEORide determines that collusion has occurred among Proposers, none of the Proposals from the participants in such collusion shall be considered. NEORide's determination shall be final.

4.5. Pricing, Taxes, and Effective Date

The price to be quoted in any Proposal will include all items of labor, materials, tools, equipment, delivery, and other costs necessary to fully meet the requirements of NEORide. Any items omitted, which are clearly necessary for the completion of this project, will be considered a portion of such specifications or requirements, although not directly specified.

NEORide is exempt from payment of Federal Sales, Excise and Transportation Tax, and the Ohio Sales, Excise and Use Tax. As such, proposers will not include these taxes in their price(s). All other government taxes, duties, fees, licenses, permits, royalties, assessments, and charges shall be included in the proposed price.

In the event of a discrepancy between the unit price and the extended amount for a required item, the unit price will govern. The price quoted by the proposing firms will not change for a period of ninety (90) days, beginning from the date the Proposal is opened.

4.6. Rejection of Proposals

Any Proposal failing to conform to the essential requirements of the RFP, such that it materially affects price, quantity, quality, or delivery of the items offered, or in which the Proposer imposes conditions modifying the requirements of the RFP or limiting its liability to NEORide in a way that gives the

Proposer an advantage over others, will be rejected as non-responsive. Minor informalities or errors that do not go to the substance of a Proposal may be waived. A low Proposer may be requested to delete certain conditions from its Proposal, provided they do not affect the substance of the Proposal. If the

Proposer fails to furnish a proposal guarantee required as a condition of the Proposal, the Proposal must be rejected.

When it is determined to reject all Proposals, all bidders will be notified that all Proposals were rejected stating the reasons for rejection.

4.7. Additional Information, Rejection

NEORide reserves the right to request additional information from any Proposer, or none. It also reserves the right to reject any and all proposals without prior notice; to waive informalities and technicalities; to extend deadlines; to negotiate directly with only those respondents deemed to be qualified according to the criteria on this RFP; and to enter into one, more than one, or no contracts as it shall deem to be in its best interests.

4.8. Protests

A. General

1. Protests may be made by prospective Proposers, Vendors, or Proposers whose direct economic interest would be affected by award of a contract or by failure to award a contract.

NEORide will consider all protests requested in a timely manner regarding the award of a contract, whether submitted before or after an award.

a. All protests are to be submitted in writing to:

i. NEORide

ii. 1 Park Centre Drive, #300

iii. Wadsworth, Ohio 44281

2. Protest submissions should be concise, logically arranged, and clearly state the grounds for protest. A protest must include at least the following information:

a. name, address, and telephone number of Protestor;

b. identification of contract solicitation number;

c. a detailed statement of the legal and factual grounds of the protest, including copies of relevant documents; and

d. a statement as to what relief is requested.

3. Protests must be submitted to NEORide in accordance with these procedures and time requirements, must be complete and contain all issues that the protestor believes relevant.

B. Protests Before Proposal Opening

1. Protests alleging restrictive specifications or improprieties which are apparent prior to

Proposal opening or receipt of proposals must be submitted in writing at the address above and must be received at least seven (7) days prior to Proposal opening or closing date for receipt of Proposals. If the written protest is not received by the time specified, Proposals may be received, and an award made in the normal manner, unless NEORide determines that remedial action is required. Oral protests not followed up by a written protest will be disregarded. NEORide may request additional information from the appealing party and information or response from other bidders, which shall be submitted to NEORide not less than ten (10) days after the date of NEORide's request. So far as practicable, appeals will be decided based on the written appeal, information and written response submitted by the appealing party and other bidders. In failure of any party to timely respond to a request for information, it may be deemed by NEORide that such party does not desire to participate in the proceeding, does not contest the matter, or does not desire to submit a response, and in such a case, the protest will proceed and will not be delayed due to the lack of a response.

Upon receipt and review of written submissions and any independent evaluation that

NEORide deems appropriate, NEORide shall either:

a. Render a final decision, or

b. At the sole election of NEORide, conduct an informal hearing at which the interested parties will be afforded opportunity to present their respective positions and facts, documents, justification, and technical information in support thereof. Parties may, but are not required to, be represented by counsel at the informal hearing, which will not be subject to formal rules of evidence or procedures. Following the informal hearing, if one is held, the NEORide will render a decision, which shall be final, and notify all interested parties thereof in writing but no later than ten (10) days from the date of informal hearing.

C. Protests After Proposal/Proposal Opening/Prior to Award

1. Protests against the making of an award by the NEORide must be submitted in writing to

NEORide and received within seven (7) days of the award by the NEORide. Notice of the protest and the basis therefore will be given to all bidders or proposers. In addition, when a protest against the making of an award by the NEORide is received and it is determined to withhold the award pending disposition of the protest, the bidders or proposers whose

Proposals might become eligible for award shall be requested, before expiration of the time for acceptance, to extend or to withdraw the Proposal. Where a written protest against the making of an award is received in the time period specified, award will not be made prior to seven (7) days after resolution of the protest unless NEORide determines that:

a. The items to be purchased are urgently required; or

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

c. Failure to make award will otherwise cause undue harm to NEORide or the federal government.

D. Protests After Award

1. In instances where the award has been made, the Contractor shall be furnished with the notice of protest and the basis thereof. If the contractor has not executed the contract as of the date the protest is received by NEORide, the execution of the contract will not be made prior to seven (7) days after resolution of the protest unless NEORide determines that:

a. The items to be purchased are urgently required; or

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

c. Failure to make award will otherwise cause undue harm to NEORide or the federal government.

E. Decision

1. Any decision pertaining to a protest following the guidelines contained in this section is final.

F. Protests to Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

1. Under certain limited circumstances, an interested party may protest to the FTA the award of a contract pursuant to an FTA grant. FTA's review of any such protest will be limited to:

a. Alleged failure by NEORide to have written protest procedures or alleged failure to follow such procedures, or

b. Alleged violations of specific federal requirement that provides an applicable complaint procedure shall be submitted and processed in accordance with that federal regulation.

2. Protestors shall file a protest with FTA not later than five (5) working days after NEORide renders a final decision under the NEORide protest procedure. In instances where the protestor alleges that NEORide failed to make a final determination on the protest, the protestor shall file a complaint with FTA no later than five (5) Federal working days after the protestor knew or should have known of NEORide failure to render a final determination in the protest.

G. Submission of Protest to FTA

1. Protests submitted to FTA should be submitted to the FTA Region 5 Office in Chicago, Illinois with a concurrent copy to NEORide. The protest filed with FTA shall:

a. Include the name and address of the protestor;

b. Identify the NEORide project number and the number of the contract solicitation;

c. Contain a statement of the grounds for protest and any supporting documentation. This should detail the alleged failure to follow NEORide's protest procedures, or the alleged failure to have procedures, and be fully supported to the extent possible

d. Include a copy of the local protest filed with NEORide and a copy of the NEORide decision, if any.

5. PROPOSAL EVALUATION & CONTRACT AWARD

5.1. General

NEORide shall employ the Scored Criteria-Based Selection in a Negotiated Purchase Method in making the award for this procurement. See #EVALUATION CRITERIA section for information that will be evaluated. Proposers will be required to submit supporting documentation on the technical aspects and cost. The Evaluation Committee may elect to interview proposers to clarify their proposals and/or for the

Proposers to make oral presentations. If interviews, presentations, or negotiations are held, the evaluation team may reevaluate the proposals of those firms interviewed. NEORide expects all offerors to fully cooperate with its evaluation process. The contract will be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder with the highest score that is in the best interest of NEORide.

5.2. Eligibility for Award

A. For a Proposer to be eligible for award, Proposers must be deemed both responsive and responsible.

B. Responsive Proposals are those complying in all material aspects of the solicitation, both as to the method and timeliness of submission and as to the substance of the provided submission.

Proposals that do not comply with all the terms and conditions of the solicitation may be rejected as non-responsive.

C. Responsible Proposers are those prospective Proposers who, at a minimum according to 49

U.S.C. Section 5325, must:

1. Have adequate financial resources, as required during performance of the Contract.

2. Be able to comply with the required or proposed delivery or performance schedule, taking into consideration all existing business commitments.

3. Have a satisfactory record of past performance.

4. Have necessary technical capability to perform.

5. Certify that they are not on the U.S. Comptroller General's list of ineligible Proposers.

6. Are qualified as a manufacturer or regular provider of the equipment being offered.

7. Are otherwise qualified and eligible to receive an award under applicable laws and regulations.

5.3. Single Proposal Response

If only one proposal is received in response to this RFP, or if only one proposal is determined to be responsive and submitted by a responsible Proposer, NEORide may proceed with evaluation and consideration of an award, provided that all applicable procurement requirements are satisfied.

NEORide shall first evaluate and document the adequacy of competition, considering the extent of solicitation, the nature of the requirements, potential restrictions on competition, and other relevant circumstances. Receipt of only one proposal shall not, by itself, establish that competition was inadequate.

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If NEORide determines that adequate competition existed, it may proceed with evaluation of the proposal using the published evaluation criteria and conduct an appropriate cost or price analysis to establish that the proposed pricing is fair and reasonable.

If NEORide determines that competition was inadequate, it may proceed through an authorized noncompetitive procurement process, subject to the requirements of 2 CFR § 200.320 and applicable FTA guidance. NEORide shall document the justification for proceeding and perform the required cost or price analysis, including evaluation of individual cost elements when necessary to establish price reasonableness.

NEORide may request additional technical, financial, or pricing information and negotiate with the

Proposer to obtain acceptable contract terms and fair and reasonable pricing. Any resulting award shall be subject to a determination that the Proposer is responsive and responsible, the proposal meets the material requirements of the RFP, the pricing is fair and reasonable, and applicable procurement procedures have been satisfied.

NEORide reserves the right to reject the proposal, cancel the solicitation, or resolicit the services if an acceptable agreement cannot be reached or if an award would not be in NEORide's best interest.

All determinations and supporting analyses shall be documented in the procurement file in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements, including FTA Circular 4220.1G.

5.4. Cost or Price Analysis

NEORide shall conduct and document an appropriate cost or price analysis for this procurement and for subsequent contract modifications when required by applicable federal, state, or local procurement requirements, including 2 CFR § 200.324 and FTA Circular 4220.1G.

A. Independent Cost Estimate

NEORide shall prepare and document an Independent Cost Estimate (ICE) before receiving proposals.

The estimate shall provide a basis for evaluating proposed pricing and determining whether the prices offered are fair and reasonable.

The estimate may consider historical contract pricing, current market conditions, comparable procurements, anticipated service levels, implementation costs, software licensing, vehicle-based pricing, transportation operating costs, and other relevant information.

B. Price Analysis

When adequate price competition exists, NEORide may conduct a price analysis to evaluate the reasonableness of proposed pricing.

Price analysis may include comparison of:

A. Prices submitted by competing Proposers.

B. The Independent Cost Estimate.

C. Historical prices paid for similar services.

D. Published market rates or commercially available pricing.

E. Prices established through comparable competitive procurements.

F. Other relevant information demonstrating price reasonableness.

For this procurement, NEORide may evaluate software implementation costs, recurring licensing and subscription charges, vehicle-based fees, turnkey transportation operating rates, startup expenses, annual escalation provisions, and other proposed charges using the pricing schedules and evaluation assumptions established in this RFP.

C. Cost Analysis

NEORide shall conduct a cost analysis when required by applicable procurement regulations or when a price analysis alone does not provide sufficient information to determine whether proposed pricing is fair and reasonable.

A cost analysis may be appropriate when competition is inadequate, when a proposal includes detailed cost elements, or when evaluating a noncompetitive procurement or contract modification.

NEORide may request supporting cost information, including labor rates, staffing assumptions, fringe benefits, overhead, equipment costs, subcontractor expenses, other direct costs, and proposed profit or fees, as necessary to evaluate the reasonableness of proposed pricing.

Where a cost analysis is conducted, NEORide shall evaluate the reasonableness and allowability of applicable cost elements and, consistent with FTA guidance, address proposed profit or fees separately as appropriate.

D. Single Proposal or Limited Competition

If only one proposal is received, or if adequate price competition cannot be established, NEORide shall evaluate the circumstances affecting competition and determine the appropriate method of analysis.

NEORide may request additional pricing or cost information and conduct negotiations to establish fair and reasonable pricing.

Any award resulting from a single proposal or inadequate competition shall be supported by the required procurement documentation and shall comply with Section 5.3 of this RFP and applicable federal procurement requirements.

E. Contract Modifications and Additional Services

Contract modifications, changes in quantities, new service configurations, and adjustments to pricing shall be subject to cost or price analysis when required by applicable procurement requirements.

Any modification shall remain within the scope of the original competitive procurement unless separately procured in accordance with applicable law.

NEORide and Participating Agencies shall not be obligated to accept proposed price increases, additional charges, or modified rates that are inconsistent with the awarded contract terms or that cannot be determined to be fair and reasonable.

F. Documentation and Award Determination

NEORide shall maintain documentation of the cost or price analysis performed, including the methodology used, supporting information considered, and determination of price reasonableness.

The results of the analysis shall be considered in determining whether to award a contract and may be used to support negotiations with Proposers.

NEORide reserves the right to reject any proposal, request additional information, negotiate pricing, or decline to award a contract if the proposed pricing cannot be determined to be fair and reasonable.

All procurement actions shall comply with applicable federal cost principles and restrictions, including the prohibition against cost-plus-a-percentage-of-cost and percentage-of-construction-cost contracting methods.

5.5. Evaluation, Selection and Award

Proposals will be evaluated by the NEORide Selection Committee in accordance with the criteria and scoring methodology established in Section 6 of this RFP.

Following the initial evaluation, the Selection Committee may identify the most qualified Proposers for further consideration and establish a competitive range consisting of those Proposers with a reasonable opportunity for award.

Proposers within the competitive range may be invited to participate in interviews, presentations, demonstrations, and/or question-and-answer sessions with the Selection Committee to clarify and further evaluate their proposals.

If discussions or negotiations are conducted, Proposers remaining within the competitive range will be afforded a fair and consistent opportunity to submit proposal revisions, as appropriate. The Selection

Committee may reevaluate proposals and adjust scores based on additional information and revised submissions, using the established evaluation criteria.

NEORide may request that Proposers within the competitive range submit a Best and Final Offer

(BAFO), including revised technical proposals, pricing, and/or commercial terms. Best and Final Offers will be evaluated using the published evaluation criteria, and rankings may be adjusted accordingly.

NEORide reserves the right to conduct additional rounds of negotiations or request further Best and Final

Offers when necessary to achieve the most advantageous outcome, provided the process is conducted fairly and in accordance with applicable procurement requirements.

NEORide's intent is to select two (2) Proposers for award of Master Services Agreements. The

Selection Committee will recommend the two highest-ranked responsive and responsible Proposers whose proposals meet the requirements of the RFP and are determined to be most advantageous to

NEORide.

However, NEORide reserves the right to award a contract to only one (1) Proposer if:

• Only one responsive and responsible proposal is received;

• Only one Proposer is determined to meet the requirements for award;

• NEORide determines that a single award provides the most advantageous combination of technical merit, service capabilities, and pricing; or

• Other documented circumstances support a single award in accordance with applicable procurement requirements.

NEORide may also determine that no award should be made if the proposals received do not adequately meet its requirements or fail to provide fair and reasonable pricing.

The Selection Committee's recommendations, including proposed pricing, contract terms, and supporting evaluation documentation, will be presented to the NEORide Executive Committee for consideration and approval.

Selection for award does not guarantee any minimum quantity of services, revenue, or participation by

NEORide member agencies.

5.6. Contract Negotiation and Finalization

Following approval of the recommended award(s) by the NEORide Executive Committee, authorized

NEORide staff will proceed with contract negotiations and finalization with the selected Proposer(s).

Negotiations may address pricing, implementation schedules, service-level agreements, reporting requirements, contractual terms, and other matters consistent with the requirements and scope of this

RFP.

NEORide intends to enter into separate Master Services Agreements with the selected Proposer(s). Such agreements will establish the terms and conditions under which NEORide and eligible Participating

Agencies may obtain services.

In the event NEORide is unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with a selected Proposer at fair and reasonable prices and acceptable terms, NEORide may formally terminate negotiations with that Proposer and proceed to negotiate with the next highest-ranked qualified Proposer.

Any replacement award will remain subject to applicable procurement requirements and Executive

Committee approval.

The selection of a Proposer or announcement of an intended award shall not constitute a binding contractual commitment.

Formal contract award shall occur only upon required approval by the NEORide Executive Committee and execution of the Master Services Agreement by authorized representatives of the parties.

5.7. Notice to Proceed

Execution of a Master Services Agreement establishes the contractual relationship between NEORide and the awarded Contractor but does not, by itself, authorize the Contractor to commence services for a

Participating Agency.

Services shall commence only upon execution of an applicable Participation Agreement, purchase order, task order, or other written authorization as required by the Master Services Agreement and approved by the applicable Participating Agency.

Each Participation Agreement shall identify the authorized services, applicable pricing, implementation requirements, performance obligations, and other agency-specific requirements.

The Contractor shall not commence work or incur costs chargeable to NEORide or a Participating

Agency before receiving the required written authorization.

Following execution of the applicable Master Services Agreement, NEORide will publish the award results through its eProcurement Portal and provide notice to participating agencies, as appropriate.

5.8. Participating Agency Vendor Selection

NEORide intends to establish Master Services Agreements with up to two (2) qualified Contractors through this procurement. These agreements will be made available to eligible NEORide Participating

Agencies for the procurement of microtransit, paratransit, mobility platform technology, and turnkey transportation services.

Each Participating Agency may select from the awarded Contractors based on its specific operational needs, technical requirements, service delivery capabilities, implementation schedules, pricing, and other relevant factors.

Participating Agencies shall not be required to select the lowest-priced Contractor, provided the selection is supported by a documented determination that the selected Contractor offers the best overall value and meets the Participating Agency's requirements.

Prior to executing a Participation Agreement, each Participating Agency shall document its selection rationale, including consideration of applicable pricing, service capabilities, technical compatibility, and other relevant factors.

All purchases made under the Master Services Agreements shall remain within the scope, terms, and pricing structure established through this competitive procurement and shall comply with applicable federal, state, and local procurement requirements.

NEORide reserves the right to provide guidance and assistance to Participating Agencies in evaluating awarded Contractors and documenting their selection decisions.

Nothing in this section guarantees any Contractor a minimum volume of work, revenue, or number of participating agencies.

6. EVALUATION CRITERIA

The NEORide Selection Committee will evaluate all responsive proposals submitted by responsible

Proposers using the criteria and scoring methodology established in this Section.

Proposals will be evaluated using a total possible score of one hundred (100) points, consisting of ninety

(90) points for the written technical and pricing proposal and ten (10) points for the demonstration phase.

Following the initial evaluation, NEORide may establish a competitive range consisting of Proposers determined to have a reasonable opportunity for award. Proposers within the competitive range may be invited to participate in demonstrations, interviews, and discussions.

For Proposers invited to Phase 2, demonstration scores will be added to their Phase 1 scores to establish a combined evaluation score of up to one hundred (100) points. Proposers not advanced to Phase 2 will remain eligible for consideration only if NEORide subsequently reopens the competitive range in accordance with applicable procurement requirements.

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