P-26-014_Test_&_Learn_Research_&_Development_(R&D)_Program.pdf

JACKSONVILLE TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR

P-26-014 Test & Learn Research & Development (R&D) Program

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION DATE:

BY 2:00 pm (ET), Monday, March 30, 2026

Jacksonville Transportation Authority

100 LaVilla Center Drive

Jacksonville, Florida 32204

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

2. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

3. PROPOSAL FORM AND SELECTION CRITERIA

4. SCOPE OF WORK

5. EVALUATION PHASES

6. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

7. REQUIRED FORMS AND CERTIFICATIONS

8. VENDOR QUESTIONNAIRE

1. NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL No. P-26-014 Test & Learn Research & Development (R&D) Program

PROPOSAL CLOSING: Monday, March 30, 2026, 2:00 pm (ET)

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (the “Authority” or the “JTA”) hereby requests Sealed Proposals for

P-26-014 Test & Learn Research & Development (R&D) Program.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is soliciting innovative technology solutions through a structured Test & Learn Research & Development (R&D) program. This includes but not limited to the following Areas: Advanced Autonomous Vehicle Operations, Smart Connected Infrastructure, and related

Safety Technologies that will be appropriate for the Pilot deployment of the AVs and technology surrounding it in support of the Ultimate Urban Circulator (U²C) Project in the Jacksonville urban core.

Sealed Proposals will be received by the JTA, until the above-stated Submittal closing/opening dates and times on the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/jtafla/projects/237238.

The complete Solicitation package will be available Thursday, February 26, 2026 and may be obtained by visiting https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/jtafla/projects/237238. A complete examination and understanding of information contained in the Solicitation package is necessary in order for the Proposer to properly submit a

Proposal. The Solicitation package also includes a detailed set of Instructions to Proposers. All Proposals shall be prepared in accordance with the Instructions to Proposers. The failure to comply with any requirement contained in the Solicitation may result in the rejection of the Proposal as non-responsive or a finding that the

Proposer is not qualified.

Proposals must be uploaded to the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal by the date and time identified in this solicitation. We strongly recommend that you give yourself sufficient time and at least ONE (1) day before

Closing Time to begin the uploading process and to finalize your submission. Late proposals will not be accepted and the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal will not accept submissions past the date and time of closing/opening.

Proposers are hereby notified that Section 287.05701, Florida Statutes, requires that JTA may not request documentation of or consider a vendor's social, political, or ideological interests when determining if the vendor is a responsible vendor, and JTA may not give any preference to any vendor based on that vendor’s social, political or ideological interests.

1.1. DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) & SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (SBE)

All Proposers are hereby notified that the DBE/SBE requirements of 49 CFR Part 26 apply to this Solicitation.

JTA has discontinued assigning individual project goals to contracts. Due to our past success in this area, JTA will now achieve small business participation through a neutral means that is not based on the firm owner’s race of gender. It is the policy of the Authority to practice nondiscrimination based on race, gender, color, sex, or national origin in the award or performance of this Contract. The Authority encourages participation by all firms qualifying under this Solicitation, regardless of business size or ownership.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/jtafla/projects/237238 https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/jtafla/projects/237238

JTA’s annual small business goal is set at 30 percent. It is our goal to achieve a minimum of 20 percent small business participation on construction-related contracts and 30 percent small business participation on professional services-related contracts. At fiscal year’s end, it is JTA’s goal to have achieved an overall minimum goal of 30 percent small business participation on all its contracts. Proposers are encouraged to maximize their efforts in achieving robust participation of DBE/SBE firms.

This resulting contract, if any, will be subject to contract compliance payment tracking, and the prime contractor and any DBE/SBE subcontractors shall provide any noted and/or requested contract compliance-related payment data electronically in the B2GNow Contract Compliance Program System. The prime contractor and all DBE/SBE subcontractors are responsible for responding by any noted response audit date or due date to any instructions or request for information, and to check the B2GNow Contract Compliance Program System on a regular basis. The prime contractor is responsible for ensuring all DBE/SBE subcontractors have completed all requested items and that their contact information is up-to-date.

Access information related to consultant access of the system will be provided to a designated point of contact with each Consultant upon award of the contract. The B2GNow Contract Compliance Program System is web-based and Contract Compliance Reporting – Vendor Training and can be accessed at the following Internet address: https://jtafla.dbesystem.com under “Training”.

1.2. TYPE OF PROCUREMENT

Professional Services (Non-CCNA)

1.3. CONTRACT TYPE

Firm‐Fixed Price w/Economic Adjustment

1.4. CONTRACT TERM

The Contract shall commence upon the Authority’s issuance of a Notice to Proceed (NTP). The Contract period shall be for a one (1) year term with four (4) one (1) year options to renew.

1.5. BASIS OF AWARD - BEST VALUE

A. This is a “best value” competitive source selection. Award will be made to the prospective Proposer who is deemed responsible in accordance with the JTA Procurement Rule 002; possesses the management, financial, technical capabilities necessary to fulfill the requirements of the contract; whose proposal conforms to solicitation requirements; and is judged by an integrated assessment of the evaluation criteria to be most advantageous to the

Authority, price and other factors considered. This will be determined by comparing differences in the value of the technical criteria including quality and safety, and business management features with differences in cost to the

Authority. In making this comparison the Authority is determining an award with obtaining superior technical or business management features than with making an award at the lowest overall cost to the Authority. However, the

JTA will not make an award at a significantly higher overall cost to achieve slightly superior technical or management features. Cost is not expected to be the controlling factor in the selection of a contractor for this solicitation. The degree of importance of cost as a factor could become greater depending on the parity of the offers for the other evaluation criteria, where offers are determined to be substantially equal, total cost and other cost factors could become the controlling factor.

B. Prospective Proposers are advised that award may be made without discussions or any contact with the Proposers concerning the offers received except for clarifications. Therefore, proposals should be submitted initially with the most favorable terms the prospective Proposer can submit to the JTA.

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C. Price evaluation will be based on the total cost to the JTA for all requirements which will be based on “Fixed

Unit Prices.”

D. The technical items will be evaluated by weighted averages along with Proposer Qualifications. The JTA intends to select the Proposer based on it’s offering the best package of approach, experience, technical proficiency, and economy (not in this specific order) to the Authority.

E. The JTA reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any Proposal, to request clarification of any Proposal, to request additional information from any Proposer, to reject any or all Proposals, in whole or in part, and to re-advertise, cancel, or postpone the Solicitation, at any time, with or without cause, without liability to any Proposer.

The JTA also reserves the right to take into consideration the Proposer’s qualifications and past performance with the JTA or any other entity in determining if the Proposer is responsible and qualified.

The JTA will make the Contract award, if any, to the responsible Proposer who’s Proposal, conforming to all the material terms and conditions of the Solicitation documents, is the lowest in price, and in accordance with its Procurement Rule 002, which is incorporated herein by reference. The JTA reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any Proposal, to request clarification of any Proposal, to request additional information from any Proposer, to reject any or all Proposals, in whole or in part, and to re-advertise, cancel, or postpone the Solicitation, at any time, with or without cause, without liability to any Proposer. The JTA also reserves the right to take into consideration the Proposer’s qualifications and past performance with the JTA or any other entity in determining if the Proposer is responsible and qualified.

1.6. FIRM PRICE AND PRICE ESCALATION OR DE-ESCALATION

If a Contract is awarded, all prices are to remain firm for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of the contract. The Authority will consider price escalation or de-escalation on prior to the annual anniversary date of the contract. Escalation and de-escalation will be reviewed by the Authority on an item-by-item basis. Proposers who are awarded a Contract and become Suppliers, Contractors or Consultants may request increases or decreases in price as follows:

Within at least ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of the current contract term, the Proposer may submit a written request for escalation or de-escalation only on items for which it can no longer honor the awarded price. The request must include the Authority's stock number, if applicable, a brief description of the item, and a new price that will remain firm until the next anniversary date of the contract term.

The Authority reserves the right to:

A. Grant or decline any request for escalation or de-escalation with or without cause.

B. Request documentation from the referenced parts manufacturer justifying any requested increase. In the event of such request the Authority will only allow the Proposer to increase its Proposal price by the amount of the actual increase as provided by the parts manufacturer.

C. The justification for the increase shall be based on an average of the previous twelve (12) months of the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Any decision of the Authority to grant or decline a request for price adjustment will be at the Authority’s sole discretion and its decision shall be final. Annual rate adjustments for services will be at the discretion of the

Authority.

1.7. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Proposers must be in good standing and authorized to transact business in the State of Florida. This shall be verified by being listed as active in Sunbiz.org database.

• Proposers must not be listed in the System for Award Management (SAM) as an excluded party.

• In addition, all licenses required for Proposers whose businesses and professions are regulated by the

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation must be active and current at the time of the proposal submission.

• Proposer must complete and provide back the JTA Cybersecurity Vendor Compliance Questionnaire

Proposers must demonstrate compliance with any other minimum requirements as stated in the Scope of Work and/or Instructions to Proposers. Each Proposal must include a copy of the Proposer's State of Florida

Certificate of Status or Good Standing and a copy of all necessary licenses, registrations, or certifications that are required to perform the work.

Failure to demonstrate compliance may result in being deemed non-responsive.

1.8. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

All questions or concerns regarding this solicitation must be submitted on the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal prior to 12:00 pm (ET) on Thursday, March 12, 2026. You will not be able to send messages after this time. All responses to questions will be uploaded to the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal and issued in an Addendum, on

Friday, March 20, 2026.

1.9. CONE OF SILENCE

From the date of the initial publication of this Solicitation until the contract is awarded and the protest period has expired, all communication relating to this Solicitation, with the exception of Disadvantaged Business

Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) related questions, shall be sent to:

Christopher Herring

Contract Administrator

Email: procurement@jtafla.com

(904) 632-5503

All DBE/SBE questions shall be addressed to Business Compliance Office Ken Middleton at

SBE1@jtafla.com or 904-598-8728. This includes questions related to certification or assistance with finding certified DBE/SBE’s to partner with.

If you are not sure who to send a question to, please send it to procurement@jtafla.com and it will be forwarded to the appropriate personnel.

All other communication to the JTA or any JTA employee, consultant, or Board Member regarding this

Solicitation is prohibited, unless made in accordance with JTA's Solicitation and Award Protest Rule.

The JTA Board of Directors has established a zero tolerance policy and the JTA will disqualify any

Proposer who makes or causes to be made, directly or indirectly, any improper communication. Nothing contained in this paragraph prohibits JTA personnel from initiating contact with a Proposer and mailto:purchasing@jtafla.com mailto:DBE1@jtafla.com mailto:purchasing@jtafla.com subsequent communication related thereto for the purpose of obtaining additional information that is relevant to the Solicitation.

Proposers are hereby notified that the JTA is subject to the Florida Public Records Law and the Government in the Sunshine Act, as set forth in Florida Statutes Chapters 119 and 286; as such, most communications to the

JTA are subject to public disclosure, and the selection meeting(s), if any, will be open to the public.

All JTA contracts are subject to funding availability and are not binding upon the Authority until duly executed by the Authority and delivered to the Proposer.

1.10. TIMELINE

Release Project Date: February 26, 2026

Pre-Proposal Meeting (Non-Mandatory): March 5, 2026, 10:00am https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22185753

019317?p=gngap8Eb8lx2lWkZLi

Deadline for Questions: March 12, 2026, 12:00pm

Response to Questions: March 20, 2026, 5:00pm

Proposal Closing Date: March 30, 2026, 2:00pm

2. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

2.1. INTRODUCTION

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (the “Authority” or “JTA”) is a public body politic and corporate agency of the State of Florida created under Chapter 349, as amended, Florida Statutes. The Authority is a transit and transportation facilities provider in North Florida, constructing and improving roadways as well as constructing, equipping and operating transit services. The Authority operates in Duval County, Florida (the

“County”), including in the City of Jacksonville, Florida (the “City”) and surrounding areas.

2.2. SOLICITATION TERMINOLOGY

The term Solicitation includes all documents that are included or referenced in the Solicitation package, including without limitation, the Request for Proposals, Notice for Publication, Instructions to Proposers, Specifications, Scope of Work, Special Conditions, Insurance Requirements, Contract Form, General

Conditions, Required Clauses for Federally-Assisted Contracts, Required Proposal Forms, Certifications, Addenda, Project Manual, Drawings, Specifications, and the documents, reports, and information referenced in such Solicitation. The terms Proposer, Contractor, and Supplier may be used interchangeably.

2.3. PROPOSER'S OFFICIAL RECEIPT OF SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS

The Proposer must receive the complete Solicitation package directly from the JTA OpenGov Procurement

Portal. If you submit a Proposal for the Solicitation and you do not receive the Solicitation documents directly https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22185753019317?p=gngap8Eb8lx2lWkZLi https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22185753019317?p=gngap8Eb8lx2lWkZLi from the JTA OpenGov Procurement Portal, there is a serious risk that you will not be kept informed of

Addenda and, therefore, your Proposal may be deemed non-responsive.

2.4. PROPOSAL DELIVERY

Proposals must be uploaded, submitted and finalized by the due date, at the location identified in the Notice for

Publication (the “Notice”), or as amended in an Addendum. No additional promotional or advertising information will be accepted. We strongly recommend that you give yourself sufficient time and at least ONE (1) day before the submission deadline to begin the uploading process and to finalize your submission. The eProcurement Portal will not allow the acceptance of late proposals. Facsimile, electronic mail and in-person deliveries will not be accepted. The Authority is the official timekeeper and the Authority's determination of the time shall be deemed correct and final.

Pursuant to Article 1, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution and under Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, if a

Respondent considers any portion of the documents, data, or records submitted in response to this solicitation to be confidential, proprietary, trade secret, or otherwise not subject to disclosure pursuant to applicable State of

Florida laws, the Respondent must provide JTA with a separate “REDACTED COPY” of its response. This redacted copy shall be submitted, on the JTA eProcurement Portal, and shall be clearly titled “REDACTED

COPY” at the same time the Bidder submits its response to the solicitation. An entire proposal or the proposed cost in a proposal cannot be identified as “CONFIDENTIAL”, “PROPRIETARY” or “TRADE SECRET”. The

Respondent must provide a brief description of the grounds for claiming exemption from public records law, including the specific statutory citation for such exemption that allows the withholding on the require form

“Certification of Redacted Copy”.

Facsimile and electronic transmissions will not be accepted. Late Proposals are not able to be accepted through the eProcurement Portal. Any responses that are delivered in person will not be accepted. The Authority is the official timekeeper and the Authority's determination of the time shall be deemed correct and final.

2.5. PROPOSAL ADDENDA

The Authority may respond to questions, or it may clarify or change any part of this Solicitation by issuing an

Addendum. By submitting a Proposal, each Proposer consents to the content of all Addenda, whether or not received by the Proposer. Proposals must include the written acknowledgment of all Addenda that is contained in Section 1.8. The Solicitation may only be modified or clarified by Addenda and no verbal or informal writing that attempts to modify or interpret the Solicitation will be binding upon the Authority.

2.6. LIQUIDATED DAMAGES (CONSTRUCTION ONLY)

The Contractor and the Authority acknowledge and agree that time is of the essence in the completion of the

Work it is of utmost importance for the Contractor to complete the Work within the time set forth in the

Contract. The Contractor understands and agrees that its failure to complete the Work within the required time will significantly impact the Authority, and that the impacts, costs, and other damages resulting from that failure are impossible to reasonably quantify as of the date the Contract is executed. Therefore, Contractor acknowledges and agrees that, if the Contractor fails to achieve Substantial Completion or Final Completion or any other milestone date(s) identified in the Contract documents within the established timeframe, as adjusted by Contract

Amendments, if any, the Contractor and the Contractor’s surety shall immediately be liable to the Authority for

Liquidated Damages for such delay, not as a penalty but as compensation to the Authority for its damages incurred due to such delay, as follows: One-thousand five-hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($1,500.00) per calendar day for each and every consecutive calendar day elapsing between the date fixed for Substantial Completion of the Work and the date Substantial Completion is actually achieved, and if specified in the Contract Documents, every consecutive calendar day elapsing between the date fixed for a defined milestone and the date that the milestone is actually achieved; and one-thousand five-hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($1,500.00) per calendar day for each and every consecutive calendar day beyond the calendar days fixed for Final Completion of the Work and the date Final Completion is actually achieved.

2.7. PROPOSER REVIEW OF SOLICITATION AND CONTRACT DOCUMENTS

By submitting a Proposal, the Proposer represents that it has fully informed itself as to: (i) the conditions to be encountered; (ii) the character, quality, and quantities of work to be performed;; and (iii) all of the requirements of the Solicitation and Contract documents, including the plans, specifications, and the labor and security conditions under which the Contract is to be performed. The Proposer shall not be relieved of its obligation to furnish all materials, equipment, labor, and services necessary to complete the Contract by reason of having failed to inform itself with respect to those matters. If this acquisition is related to a project in which conditions, specifications, and/or plans have been issued, those documents, where applicable, are incorporated herein. The

Authority does not guarantee the accuracy of any information that may have been provided in connection with the Solicitation and if this is a lump sum Contract, the Authority does not assume any responsibility for determining the quantities required. FTA Third Party Contract Clauses must be adhered to for all federally funded procurements. If there are any revisions to the FTA Third Party Contract Clauses, a contract amendment or addendum must be completed.

2.8. QUALIFICATIONS AND REFERENCES

The Authority reserves the right to request any additional information it deems necessary regarding the

Proposer’s previous experience and qualifications, and the Authority may also consider any evidence available to it regarding the financial, technical, and other qualifications and abilities of the Proposer. The Proposer shall provide any additional information requested within forty-eight (48) hours of such request.

2.9. NON-RESPONSIVE PROPOSALS MAY BE REJECTED

The failure to comply with any requirement contained in the Notice, Instructions to Proposers, Required Forms, and/or other Solicitation documents may result in the rejection of the Proposal as non-responsive.

2.10. RESERVATION OF RIGHTS IN THE SOLICITATION PROCESS.

The Authority reserves all rights it is entitled to under the law, including the right to:

• reject any or all Proposals and to cancel or postpone the Solicitation, in whole or in part, for any reason, without liability;

• issue subsequent or concurrent Solicitation(s) for the work/services described herein;

• perform background checks, reference checks, and consider any information the Authority deems pertinent to the Solicitation;

• request additional copies of the Proposal from the Proposer, at no cost to the Authority; and

• request additional or omitted information and seek clarifications of any Proposal.

2.11. REQUIRED FORMS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Proposers shall complete and return all forms required by section "Required Forms and Certifications". All forms must be submitted using the exact forms provided and must be signed by an authorized representative of the

Proposer. Any alteration of the forms or failure to submit required forms shall cause the proposal to be rejected as non-responsive.

The forms cannot be marked “N/A” and returned as an effort to comply with the requirements. These forms

MUST be completed, signed, and returned with your proposal. The burden is on each Proposer to know of and submit all required forms with proposal submittals. If the Authority determines that a Proposer has failed to return completed form(s), and/or has failed to sign all required form(s), the proposal shall be rejected as non-responsive

2.12. DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) & SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (SBE)

PROGRAMS

It is the official policy of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Authority that Disadvantaged

Business Enterprises (DBEs) & Small Business Enterprise (SBEs) have a level playing field on which to participate in the performance of all contracts. This Solicitation and contract award are subject to the requirements of Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 26. The Proposer and its subcontractors shall not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, religion, or family status in the performance of the Contract. The Proposer shall carry out applicable requirements of the

DBE/SBE program in the award and administration of the work associated with the Contract.

In accordance with 49 CFR Part 26.55, to count towards the goal the DBE/SBE must be performing a commercially useful function on the contract. If a DBE/SBE does not perform or exercise responsibility for at least 30 percent of the total cost of its contract with its own work force, or the DBE/SBE subcontracts a greater portion of the work of a contract than would be expected on the basis of normal industry practice for the type of work involved, you must presume that it is not performing a commercially useful function. This is true for a

DBE/SBE Prime Contractor and lower-tier DBE/SBE firms on the contract.

The successful Proposer must provide written confirmation of participation from each of the DBE/SBE firms the

Proposer lists in its commitment within five days after opening the proposal.

A. The names and addresses of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and/or Small Business Enterprise

(SBE) firms that will participate in the contract

B. A description of the work that each DBE/SBE firm will perform;

C. The dollar amount of the participation of each DBE/SBE firm listed under (1)

D. Written statement from Proposer or Offeror that attests their commitment to use the DBE/SBE firm(s) listed under (1) to meet the Authority’s project goal; and

A. Participation Goals. JTA has moved away from assigning individual project goals to contracts. Because of our past success in this area, the JTA will now achieve small business participation that is not based on the firm owner’s race or gender. Proposers are encouraged to make every attempt to secure a level of

DBE/SBE participation.

Determining Compliance with DBE/SBE Requirements for Contracts – Forms. Each Proposer must acknowledge its commitment to achieving the DBE/SBE participation set by the Authority. There are several required forms that must be submitted as part of the Solicitation process, which support this requirement:

• Schedule of Subcontractors Form - Identifies those subcontractors whom the Proposer will utilize on the

Contract, including the certified DBE/SBE businesses, and the scope and relative value (expressed as a percentage) of work to be performed by each subcontractor.

• Intent to Perform as a DBE/SBE - Submitted for each DBE/SBE subcontractor, outlining the dollar value of the work to be performed.

• Proposer's List - Lists all potential subcontractors contacted by the Proposer for the Contract.

If the Proposer is awarded a Contract with the Authority, it must enter into a formal written agreement with the

DBEs/SBEs identified in its Schedule of Subconsultants/Subcontractors Form in accordance with the assignments identified and outlined in the Intent to Perform as a DBE/SBE.

If the selected Proposer is a certified DBE/SBE and intends to perform a portion of the work with its own forces, the Proposer shall identify the responsibilities it intends to perform by type and by percentage of work to be done.

In order for the work to be counted towards the DBE/SBE goal assigned to the project, the Proposer must perform the work as specified and may not delegate or contract the specified responsibilities to other entities.

Certification. ALL PROPOSED DBEs/SBEs SHOULD BE CERTIFIED BY THE FLORIDA UNIFORM

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (UCP) AT THE TIME OF SUBMISSION OF THE BID. If a subconsultant is not certified by the aforementioned certification program at the time of submission, the Proposer can neither report the non-certified business' participation, nor include that company's dollar value of work towards any established DBE/SBE goals. Program information and applications for certification may be obtained by visiting the following websites:

• https://www.jtafla.com/contact-us/business-opportunities/small-business-enterprise-sbe-program/

• https://jtafla.sbecompliance.com/

The Proposer shall fully comply with all requests for additional documentation. In determining an applicant's eligibility for DBE/SBE status, the Authority will generally rely upon the Federal Certification Process, as described in 49 CFR Part 26. In addition, as a member of the Unified Certification Program (UCP) within the state of Florida where FDOT is the host agency, the Authority will accept DBEs/SBEs certified by FDOT and may, on a case-by-case basis, accept a DBE/SBE certification decision made by another UCP or non-Florida

Department of Transportation.

The Proposer shall fully comply with all requests for additional documentation. In determining an applicant's eligibility for DBE/SBE status.

The following list, although not all inclusive, are neutral efforts that can be made by proposers to identify potential

DBE/SBE firms:

1. Attending planned pre-proposal meetings scheduled by the Authority to review resources, such as certified DBE/SBE vendor lists, and to discuss, among other things, DBE/SBE participation opportunities;

2. Advertising in general circulation, trade association, and minority/women-focused media concerning subcontracting opportunities;

3. Soliciting the interest of a reasonable number of DBE/SBE through written notices, and allowing an adequate amount of time for response and inquiry from interested parties;

A. Contacting prospective DBE/SBE participants in response to initial Solicitations to assess level of interest;

B. Utilizing subcontracting arrangements and other techniques to structure the project in a manner designed to increase the likelihood of participation of DBE/SBE firms;

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C. Providing interested DBE/SBE with adequate information about the plans, specifications, scope of work, and requirements of the Contract;

D. Discussing with interested DBE/SBE the required capabilities of the project, and performing a thorough investigation of the DBE/SBE qualifications to determine inherent competencies;

E. Using good business judgment to negotiate in good faith with interested DBE/SBE regarding price, and reviewing all reasonable quotes from interested DBE/SBE businesses;

F. Assisting interested DBE/SBE in obtaining bonding, lines of credit, insurance, and other guarantees required by the Authority and/or the Proposer;

G. Supporting interested DBE/SBE in obtaining necessary equipment, supplies, materials, or related assistance and services; and

H. Effectively utilizing the services of various community and professional organizations to aid in identifying qualified DBE/SBE. These organizations include but are not limited to: community organizations;

chambers of commerce; contractor groups; local, state, and federal business assistance offices; the

Authority; and other organizations that provide assistance in the identification of DBE/SBE firms.

These efforts are active steps, ones that may significantly increase the potential for sufficient DBE/SBE participation and the achievement of DBE/SBE participation goals.

Determination of compliance with the DBE/SBE program will be made by the Authority’s Business Compliance

Office after confirming that the listed DBE/SBE firms shall perform a commercially useful function is approved.

Otherwise, the submittal will be deemed non-responsive and removed from the competition.

The Notice to Proceed (NTP) will not be issued to the selected prime contractor until the DBE/SBE subcontracts are finalized, and the fully executed DBE/SBE and subcontractor agreements are received by JTA and determined to be compliant.

After contract award, contractors must also submit with their monthly pay application/invoice as part of the

DBE/SBE Monthly Utilization Report. The report shall detail the payments made to the listed DBE/SBE. If the monthly report is not in compliance, JTA shall contact the contractor and the JTA project manager to discuss the reasons for noncompliance and potential solutions. Payment to the contractor may be withheld or delayed until the monthly report is approved.

• Post-Award Compliance Procedures: Contractors shall not terminate or change the terms of its

DBE/SBE commitment after contract award without the prior written consent of the Business Compliance

Office. Contractors are required to demonstrate good cause to terminate DBE/SBE. To establish good cause the listed DBE/SBE must:

A. Fail or refuse to execute a written contract.

B. Fail or refuse to meet the prime contractor’s reasonable bond requirements.

C. Declare bankruptcy or insolvency, or exhibit credit unworthiness.

D. Become ineligible to work on Authority projects because of suspension and debarment proceedings.

E. Provide the Authority’s Business Compliance Office written notice when voluntarily withdrawing from the project.

F. Exhibit other good cause as determined by the sole discretion of the Business Compliance Office.

Good cause shall not include circumstances where the contractor seeks to terminate an DBE/SBE so that the contractor can self-perform the work or substitute another DBE/SBE or non- DBE/SBE subcontractor to perform the work. The contractor must give the DBE/SBE notice in writing, copying the Business Compliance Office, of its intent to request termination and/or substitution, including the reason(s) for the termination.

Contractors that propose to terminate or substitute an DBE/SBE subcontractor must make good faith effort to find a substitute DBE/SBE subcontractor to meet its DBE/SBE commitment. The good faith efforts shall include documented efforts to find another DBE/SBE to perform or provide the same amount of work, material, or service under the contract with the original DBE/SBE.

If the proposed reduction in the DBE/SBE scope of work or items of goods or supplies is related to a contract modification, the prime contractor must immediately inform the Business Compliance Office in writing of any increase or decrease in the DBE/SBE scope of work. If the contractor is unable to meet its DBE/SBE contractual commitment with the modification, it must inform the Business Compliance Office within five (5) days of the modification approval.

• Documenting Goal Initiatives. DBE/SBE documentation forms will be used to document the Proposer's achievement of DBE/SBE participation. DBE/SBE documentation forms shall be as complete and accurate as possible and shall include all required information. Failure to comply with these requirements may be cause for rejection of the Bid.

Determining Compliance with DBE/SBE Requirements for Contracts – Forms. Each Proposer are required to submit the required forms as part of the Solicitation process, which support this requirement:

• Schedule of Subcontractors Form - Identifies those subcontractors whom the Proposer will utilize on the

Contract, including the certified DBE/SBE businesses, and the scope and relative value (expressed as a percentage) of work to be performed by each subcontractor.

• Intent to Perform as a DBE/SBE - Submitted for each DBE/SBE subcontractor, outlining the dollar value of the work to be performed.

• Proposer's List - Lists all potential subcontractors contacted by the Proposer for the Contract.

If the Proposer is awarded a Contract with the Authority, it must enter into a formal written agreement with the

DBE/SBE identified in its Schedule of Subcontractors Form in accordance with the assignments identified and outlined in the Intent to Perform as a DBE/SBE.

If the selected Proposer is a certified DBE/SBE and intends to perform a portion of the work with its own forces, the Proposer shall identify the responsibilities it intends to perform by type and by percentage of work to be done.

In order for the work to be counted towards the DBE/SBE goal assigned to the project, the Proposer must perform the work as specified and may not delegate or contract the specified responsibilities to other entities.

Certification. ALL PROPOSED DBE/SBE FIRMS SHOULD BE CERTIFIED BY THE AUTHORITY AT

THE TIME OF SUBMISSION OF THE PROPOSAL. If a subcontractor/supplier is not certified by the aforementioned certification program at the time of submission, the Proposer can neither report the non-certified business' participation, nor include that company's dollar value of work towards any established LSBE goals.

Program information and applications for certification may be obtained by visiting the following websites:

• https://www.jtafla.com/contact-us/business-opportunities/local-small-business-enterprise-lsbe/

• https://jtafla.sbecompliance.com/

The Proposer shall fully comply with all requests for additional documentation. In determining an applicant's eligibility for LSBE status.

https://www.jtafla.com/contact-us/business-opportunities/local-small-business-enterprise-lsbe/ https://jtafla.sbecompliance.com/

The following list, although not all inclusive, are neutral efforts that can be made by proposers to identify potential

DBE/SBE firms:

1. Attending planned pre-proposal meetings scheduled by the Authority to review resources, such as certified

DBE/SBE vendor lists, and to discuss, among other things, DBE/SBE participation opportunities;

2. Advertising in general circulation, trade association, and minority/women-focused media concerning subcontracting opportunities;

3. Soliciting the interest of a reasonable number of DBE/SBE through written notices, and allowing an adequate amount of time for response and inquiry from interested parties;

4. Contacting prospective DBE/SBE participants in response to initial Solicitations to assess level of interest;

5. Utilizing subcontracting arrangements and other techniques to structure the project in a manner designed to increase the likelihood of participation of DBE/SBE firms;

6. Providing interested DBE/SBE with adequate information about the plans, specifications, scope of work, and requirements of the Contract;

7. Discussing with interested DBE/SBE the required capabilities of the project, and performing a thorough investigation of the DBE/SBE qualifications to determine inherent competencies;

8. Using good business judgment to negotiate in good faith with interested DBE/SBE regarding price, and reviewing all reasonable quotes from interested DBE/SBE businesses;

9. Assisting interested DBE/SBE in obtaining bonding, lines of credit, insurance, and other guarantees required by the Authority and/or the Proposer;

10. Supporting interested DBE/SBE in obtaining necessary equipment, supplies, materials, or related assistance and services; and

11. Effectively utilizing the services of various community and professional organizations to aid in identifying qualified DBE/SBE. These organizations include, but are not limited to: community organizations;

chambers of commerce; contractor groups; local, state, and federal business assistance offices; the

Authority; and other organizations that provide assistance in the identification of DBE/SBE.

These efforts are active steps, ones that may significantly increase the potential for greater DBE/SBE participation.

2.13. PROPOSER DISQUALIFICATION

Any of the following causes may be considered sufficient for the disqualification of a Proposer and the rejection of its Proposal:

A. submission of more than one (1) Proposal from a Proposer for the same work by an individual, entity, partnership, or corporation under the same or different names;

B. evidence of collusion between or among Proposers;

C. work for which the Proposer is committed by contract, which, in the Authority's judgment and sole discretion, might hinder or prevent the prompt completion of the Contract if awarded to the Proposer;

D. being behind on the approved completion schedule for any existing contract or contract completed within two (2) years of the Proposal Closing date with the Authority where the Contractor has been assessed liquidated damages, being involved in litigation with the Authority, or having been declared by the Authority to be in default on a previous contract with the Authority;

E. poor, negligent, or defective performance of work for the Authority or any other party on prior projects, which, in the Authority's judgment and sole discretion, raises doubts as to the Proposer's ability to properly perform the Contract;

F. appearance of the Proposer on the Department of General Services' Convicted Vendors List; debarment or suspension of the Proposer by the Authority pursuant to the Authority’s Administrative Rule 003; or for “covered transactions,” as that term is defined in 49 CFR Part 29, with a value greater than $25,000, if the Proposer is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, or declared ineligible for the award of contracts by any Federal agency;

G. violating the Cone of Silence;

H. having any real or apparent conflict of interest, including any relationship with or interest in those firms who have assisted the Authority in the preparation of the Solicitation;

I. misstating or omitting a material fact in the Proposal, submitting a Proposal that is conditional, or submitting a proposal that contains unauthorized conditions, limitations, exceptions, or alterations;

J. failing to properly: (i) execute any Form; (ii) execute any Proposal Security; (iii) execute other required documents; or (iv) meet the minimum requirements of the Solicitation; or

K. any other reason, as determined in the sole discretion of the Authority, that warrants rejection of the

Proposal or disqualification of the Proposer, including listing unqualified subcontractors or failing to provide adequate references for the Proposer and/or any subcontractors upon request.

The Authority may cancel or postpone the Solicitation and may reject any and all Proposals, with or without cause, and may waive any minor irregularity in any Proposal.

2.14. Change Authorization (Service Contracts Only)

Unforeseen circumstances may arise during the performance period that could affect the ability to complete the scope of work outlined in the Agreement. Any necessary changes to the Original Agreement terms and conditions can be authorized, provided that these changes do not fundamentally alter the core terms of the Agreement

(cardinal change). Such changes must be approved in writing by the authorized representatives of the Authority and awarded firm, herein referred to as 'Parties'. This authorization will be documented through a formal Change

Order, which must be signed by the Parties.

2.15. TAXES

The Authority is exempt from the following taxes: (a) State of Florida Sales Tax by Certificate No.85-

8012646346C-1; and (b) Federal Excise Tax Registration No. 59-6018367. The only purchases allowed to be made using these exemptions are to be made on either an Authority Purchase Order or an Authority check. The sales tax exemption does not apply to goods or services that are purchased or consumed by the Proposer for which the Proposer is deemed to be the ultimate consumer.

2.16. DEVIATIONS TO SPECIFICATIONS

All requests for deviations from the specifications must be submitted as a written question prior to the deadline for questions. Proposals may be rejected as non-responsive if deviations are used without being approved in an

Addendum.

2.17. DISCOUNTS

Prompt payment discounts will be considered during the administration of the Contract, but will not be considered when evaluating the Proposal.

2.18. PROVISION FOR OTHER AGENCIES

By signing and submitting its Proposal, the Proposer hereby agrees to extend the terms, conditions, and other negotiated agreements to any Transit Authority, or any City, County, or State Government agency within the

State of Florida. It is understood that some negotiated agreements may require further negotiations between the successful Proposer and the entity desiring to benefit from this Solicitation. Any such resulting agreements will be independent of the Authority.

2.19. PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT AS AGENT

When the Procurement Department is acting as agent for “other public activities” defined as activities receiving financial support in part from the Authority but not under the direct governing jurisdiction of the Authority, the name of such public activity shall be substituted for the words “JTA” and “Authority” throughout the

Solicitation and Contract.

2.20. ETHICS PROVISION

The Proposer, by affixing its signature to the Proposal and/or by accepting a Purchase Order, represents that it has reviewed the provision of the Jacksonville Ethics Code contained in chapter 602, Jacksonville Ordinance

Code, and the provisions of the Procurement Code contained in chapter 126, Jacksonville Ordinance Code.

2.21. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND AGREEMENT TO CONTRACT TERMS

By signing the Proposal, the Proposer acknowledges its agreement to all terms, conditions, and specifications contained in this Solicitation and resulting Contract, if any. When the Authority issues a Purchase Order(s), the

Proposer shall comply with all the terms, conditions, and specifications contained in this Solicitation and resulting Contract, per the Order of Precedence in the Contract, until expiration or termination of the

Contract. The work is to begin only after proper authorization and issuance of a Purchase Order or a Notice to

Proceed.

2.22. NO PROPOSAL PREP COSTS

Under no circumstances will the Authority compensate any Proposer for the costs associated with responding to this Solicitation.

2.23. ALL-INCLUSIVE PROPOSAL

The Proposal shall include, at no additional cost to the Authority, all necessary safety equipment: in addition, all necessary taxes, licenses, permits, and insurance shall also be obtained by the Proposer at no additional cost to the Authority.

2.24. REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATION AND SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The Authority reserves the right to seek clarification and supplemental information from any or all Proposers when the Proposal contains any information or implication that is ambiguous.

2.25. PUBLIC RECORDS AND GOVERNMENT IN THE SUNSHINE LAWS

The Authority is subject to the Florida Public Records Law, the Government in the Sunshine Act, and possibly the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). In compliance therewith, at the sole discretion of the Authority, the

Authority may disseminate or make available to any person, without the consent of the Proposer, information regarding the Contract or the Proposal, including without limitation: requirements; specifications; drawings;

sketches; schematics; models; samples; tools; computer or other apparatus programs; and technical information or data, whether or written or oral, furnished to the Authority in connection with this Solicitation.

2.26. AVAILABILITY OF PROPOSALS AFTER OPENING

In accordance with the Florida Public Records Law, Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, copies of all Proposals are available for public inspection thirty (30) days after the opening of Proposals or on the date of Notice of Intent to

Award, whichever is earlier. Proposers may review opened Proposals once they are available for public inspection by contacting the JTA Public Records Office at publicrecords@jtafla.com.

If JTA rejects all Proposals submitted in response to a competitive Solicitation and concurrently provides notice of its intent to reissue the competitive Solicitation, the rejected Proposals remain exempt from §§

119.07(1) and 119.24(a), Florida Statutes, Art. I of the State Constitution until such time as JTA provides notice of an intended decision concerning the reissued competitive Solicitation or until JTA withdraws the reissued competitive Solicitation. A Proposal is not exempt for longer than twelve (12) months after the initial notice rejecting all Proposals.

2.27. PROHIBITION AGAINST CONTRACTING WITH SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES.

By submitting a proposal:

A. The Contractor hereby certifies that it is not on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List and is not engaged in a boycott of Israel, as defined in Florida Statutes § 287.135, as amended;

B. When the contract value is $1,000,000 or more; the Contractor hereby certifies that it is: (1) not on the

Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan List or the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in the

Iran Petroleum Energy Sector List as defined in Florida Statutes § 287.135; and (2) not engaged in business mailto:publicrecords@jtafla.com http://www.lawserver.com/law/state/florida/statutes/florida_statutes_119-07 operations in Cuba or Syria, as defined in Florida Statutes § 287.135, as amended.

2.28. STANDARD ASSURANCES (including Non-Collusion and Debarment Certifications)

By submitting a signed Proposal, each Proposer certifies, under penalty of perjury, that:

A. The Proposer understands all requirements and, if selected, the Proposer will comply with all of the requirements of the Solicitation, the Proposal, and any resulting Contract.

B. The signatory of the Proposer is of lawful age, and no other person, firm, or corporation, other than those clearly identified in the Proposal, has any interest in the Proposal and/or any resulting

Contract.

C. The Proposal is made without any understanding, agreement, or connection with any other

Proposer or…