Response_to_RFP_500-26_ODOT_3.28.25-2.pdf

Cover Letter

State of Ohio, Department of Transportation 1980 West Broad Street Columbus, OH 43223

SUBJECT: RFP 500-26 – RWIS WEATHER & PAVEMENT CONDITION FORECASTING

SERVICE

Dear Purchasing Services:

BAMWX is excited for the opportunity to partner with the Ohio Department of Transportation to enhance weather decision support for your operations. We understand the critical role that accurate, timely weather intelligence plays in ensuring road safety, optimizing resources, and minimizing disruptions.

With our advanced technology, expert meteorology team, and user-friendly platform, we provide a seamless and proactive approach to weather forecasting and road condition monitoring. Our goal is to equip ODOT with precise, real-time insights that support informed decision-making, improve efficiency, and enhance public safety.

We are confident that our solution will provide ODOT with a superior, reliable, and fully integrated weather support system. We look forward to the possibility of working together and demonstrating how BAMWX can be a valuable partner in helping ODOT stay ahead of the weather.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to discuss our proposal further.

Sincerely, Lauren Thomas

Lauren Thomas, Chief Revenue Officer Phone: 317.690.9881 | lauren.thomas@bamwx.com | www.bamwx.com | 200 Byrd Way, Greenwood, IN 46143

BAMWX Legal Information

Legal Contracting Entity: BAM Weather, LLC (hereinafter BAMWX) Address: 200 Byrd Way, Greenwood, Indiana

Account Manager: Lauren Thomas Responder: BAMWX Contract Start Date: Upon contract execution Product/Services: Clarity Delivery: Online Software as a Service (SaaS) Delivery Method: Online Subscription to web based application with downloaded apple Payment Terms: Monthly invoicing: 30-day Payment Terms: 30-day

The following BAMWX proposal is submitted subject to and conditioned upon the parties subsequently agreed to terms and conditions.

Executive Summary

BAMWX: A Trusted Partner in Road Weather Intelligence

Empowering ODOT with Modern, Accurate, and Actionable Weather Solutions

BAMWX is committed to delivering comprehensive, secure, and innovative road weather technology to support the critical decisions required by ODOT’s transportation operations. Our solution provides a seamless, integrated suite of services, including:

• Advanced Weather & Pavement Forecasting – High-resolution, hyper-local forecasts tailored for ODOT’s specific needs.

• RWIS Data Management – Efficient integration and analysis of RWIS data for improved road condition monitoring.

• 24/7/365 Meteorological Consultation – Direct access to expert meteorologists for real-time guidance and decision support.

Our platform combines cutting-edge technology, an expert operational meteorology team and the RWIS weather & pavement condition forecasting delivering a streamlined, intuitive interface for ODOT users for seamless decision-making. This integration enhances operational efficiency, reduces risk, and ensures uninterrupted access to critical weather intelligence.

Why BAMWX?

With over a decade of experience, BAMWX is a recognized leader in weather decision support across North America. We are passionate about providing the most accurate, simple, data-driven, proactive solutions to help agencies like ODOT, supported by our trusted team of meteorologists:

• Improve Road Safety – Enhancing winter maintenance strategies and emergency response.

• Optimize Resource Allocation – Ensuring efficient use of materials, equipment, and personnel.

• Minimize Disruptions – Delivering precise, real-time forecasts to support proactive decision-making.

BAMWX has established strong, collaborative relationships with clients across industries, including transportation, emergency management, and major event operations. Our expertise has been trusted by organizations such as the NCAA Men’s Final Four, the Daytona 500, and state DOTs nationwide.

As a long-term weather intelligence provider, BAMWX is committed to ensuring ODOT remains at the forefront of technological advancements in road maintenance. Our team looks forward to a continued partnership that prioritizes accuracy, reliability, and safety—without the risk of service interruptions or costly transitions.

We are excited for the opportunity to move forward together with a low-risk, high-impact solution designed specifically for ODOT’s evolving needs.

BAMWX Proposed Solutions

What is Clarity and How Is It Different?

Clarity is an advanced, web-based platform that uniquely combines cutting-edge technology with real-time, human forecast expertise. Unlike fully automated weather apps that may suffer from significant forecast errors, Clarity delivers precise, actionable insights tailored to your operational needs. Standard sources such as local news or the National Weather Service provide general information, but they often lack the specificity required for critical decision-making.

Key features of Clarity include:

■ Hourly Insights: Forecast insights have been added to the hourly forecast to give you direct commentary on forecast risks, details and where automated data may need to adjust. Never worry about whether an hourly forecast is right or wrong - a meteorologist will be able to put their direct input into the forecast and ensure you can be confident with your decisions.

■ Daily Insights: Insights on the daily forecasts have been added to allow our meteorologists to give more detailed commentary on the pattern ahead. Storm systems can shift, droughts can dry rains up and data won't always see it. The daily insights give you a new way to plan ahead more effectively and efficiently with BAM Weather.

■ Nowcasts: The most critical forecast information within Clarity will be in the NowCast section. Now casts give you pressing weather information as soon as you open the platform allowing you to ACT ASAP. Imminent weather impacts are often the most crucial information we provide and now instead of worrying about it being lost in a chat - it will be available as needed right on the Now Screen.

■ Maps: The maps tab is more customized than ever. Instead of limiting maps to a certain period - our meteorologists can now create *any* custom maps that can provide you with more information to plan ahead.

Whether it's a potential winter storm, severe weather event or a pattern favorable for flooding rains - you will find our custom thoughts in this section.

■ Radar: Clarity's radar will be THE standard for composite, interactive radars in the weather industry. With increased speed and functionality plus a modern design, you won't need any other radars in your pocket.

Plus, enjoy new tools for both observed and future products and enjoy an increased ability to visualize/navigate between your locations.

■ Hourly Metrics: Get what you want - skip what you don't. We have tools beneficial for every industry - such as the spray forecast for Ag, PaveCast for snow and WBGT for schools. With Clarity, select which version of the hourly forecast you want to see and be more efficient when analyzing our forecast products and data. We have specific sections for Ag and Winter!

■ Threshold Alerts: Certain levels of temperatures, wind, visibility, etc. can not only cause damage, but threaten people's safety. You can set up notifications to alert you when any specific location you are monitoring has reached that threshold. Get alerted when rain, snow or fog is in the forecast and when current conditions reach your set thresholds!

■ PaveCast: It can be challenging to determine a treatment plan for wintry events with marginal temperatures. Sometimes snow melts on contact, sometimes it sticks. Will road temperatures be too warm for ice to accrete? With PaveCast you can stop guessing, get road temperature and condition forecasts for multiple different pavement types!

■ Video Updates: BAM's meteorologists will produce daily local video updates within Clarity and more customized and specific video updates within your daily and hourly insights. Breakdowns of key points will help you focus on what matters to you most!

■ Teams: Do you have multiple different teams/groups focused on different locations/priorities? With Clarity you can set up separate teams to get rid of the noise and allow your employees to focus price solely on the locations and weather data they need to be successful.

■ Lightning Alerts: BAM"s customizable lightning alerts allow you to receive notifications when lightning has entered designated rings. Plus, customize a countdown timer so you know when your location is clear from lightning threats.

■ Chat: With Clarity's chat feature, consult directly with a meteorologist anytime you need to make a critical decision. In the chat section, you'll get the specific, actionable forecast details you need within moments of reaching out so you can always be confident with your decision making.

By delivering a blend of innovative technology and expert analysis, Clarity equips ODOT with the reliable, customized weather solutions necessary to safeguard operations and serve the community effectively.

Section II. Scope of Work and Specifications of Deliverables

General Requirements

2.1 Evaluation Web Address

BAMWX has created an active Clarity account for ODOT to allow for a real-time trial to highlight BAMWX ability to meet and exceed the requirements.

Login credentials:

Username: l Claritywx@dot.ohio.gov Password: ODOT123

You can log into Clarity 3 ways:

1. iOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/clarity-weather/id6446802686 (don’t forget to allow push notifications)

2. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bamwx.claritywx

3. Website: https://claritywx.com/login

Video Tutorial: Here is a link that will have a few tutorial videos:

https://bamwx.com/clarity-info/

2.2 Customer Satisfaction Surveys

BAMWX is dedicated to customer satisfaction, reflected in our 90%+ renewal rate. We actively seek feedback through regular customer satisfaction surveys and offer real-time rating options on every personalized chat within our platform, ensuring continuous improvement and exceptional service. It is within BAMWX’s standard business practices to connect with customers on a regular basis to ensure complete satisfaction and currently has many customers on standing, monthly satisfaction virtual “check ins”.

Following this same standard and utilizing the same survey tools,, BAMWX would eagerly contact ODOT District representatives monthly for customer satisfaction and feedback.

2.3 Atmospheric Files

With BAMWX in-house development team and extensive mapping expertise, BAMWX would produce three atmospheric files daily and provide them to ODOT at the following FTP site:

//ftp.dot.state.oh.us/pub/doit/ssi_rwis/.

mailto:Claritywx@dot.ohio.gov https://apps.apple.com/us/app/clarity-weather/id6446802686 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bamwx.claritywx https://claritywx.com/login https://bamwx.com/clarity-info/ http://ftp.dot.state.oh.us/pub/doit/ssi_rwis/

As Clarity is a proprietary solution to BAMWX, it is standard practice to store all data securely.

BAMWX would commit to store the three required files for 7 days.

Additionally, ODOT would be immediately informed of any corrupted, failing, unavailable or unusable data and missing or incomplete files will be restored to ODOT as quickly as possible, within a 5 day time period.

2.4 Continuous Staffing Required

BAMWX meteorologists are industry experts dedicated to continuous learning and building strong relationships with ODOT users. Their goal is to provide the most relevant and accurate weather insights for effective decision-making.

Our team holds degrees in Meteorology and Atmospheric Science from accredited institutions, ensuring top-tier expertise in operational forecasting. Unlike automated systems, BAMWX’s Clarity platform bridges the gap by combining cutting-edge technology with real-time human analysis. Our meteorologists monitor weather conditions 24/7/365, delivering proactive insights that automation alone can’t provide.

With an average response time of just 2 minutes and 30 seconds, you can chat with our experts anytime for immediate guidance. Additionally, ODOT will have 24/7 access to our meteorology and support teams via dedicated phone lines.

2.5 Training

At BAMWX, we prioritize training to ensure ODOT users get the most out of our platform. To support this, we assign dedicated training specialists to ODOT, providing hands-on guidance and training as often as needed. Additionally, we offer a library of video and written training resources, making it easy to learn and reference key features anytime.

Beyond user training, our meteorologists undergo continuous education to stay ahead of industry advancements, ensuring we consistently meet ODOT’s expectations with the most accurate and actionable weather insights.

With BAMWX, you’re not just receiving a forecast—you’re gaining a fully supported, expert-driven system designed to empower ODOT with the knowledge and tools for smarter, faster decision-making.

2.6 Description of Pavement Process

Our Pavecast forecast model utilizes the highest resolution model data possible and looks at over 60 different weather models to compute the most accurate forecast possible. Our expert forecasters have the ability to adjust the forecast grids ensuring pavecast is as accurate as possible. We take this a step further with our treatment recommendation forecasts that use human expert input and hi-res weather models to give you the best idea possible of pavement treatment forecasts along with pavecast.

2.7 Description of Weather & Pavement Forecast Verification Efforts

We track our forecast accuracy in-house and maintain it confidential, but below is a sample that demonstrates the performance of BAMWX’s hourly forecast products.

2.8 Ohio Weather Experience

BAMWX has been providing forecasting and weather services to clients across multiple industries for several years, with a strong focus on Ohio. Our team has extensive experience serving clients on a daily basis throughout the state, giving us a deep understanding of Ohio’s unique layout and terrain.

We are well-versed in the challenges posed by Ohio’s diverse weather patterns, including the distinct characteristics of the more rural southern and southeastern regions. Additionally, we are highly knowledgeable in lake-effect forecasting and the impacts of Ohio’s primary and secondary snowbelts.

This expertise allows us to offer tailored, precise weather insights to ODOT, ensuring that we meet the specific needs of the department across the state. Our team’s intimate understanding of Ohio’s weather dynamics enables us to provide the most relevant, accurate, and actionable information, helping ODOT make informed decisions and respond effectively to changing conditions.

2.9 Telephone Consultation Required

BAMWX will provide ODOT a direct telephone number available 24/7/365 for priority support for ODOT users.

Please also see Section 2.4 for more information.

2.10 Online Meteorological Consultation Required

Clarity’s chat feature, accessible directly in the platform, provides you with 24/7/365 direct access to our team of expert meteorologists whenever you need to make critical decisions.

Through this real-time communication tool, you can consult with a meteorologist and receive highly specific, actionable forecast information tailored to your needs within moments of reaching out. With an average response time of just over 2 minutes, this immediate support ensures that you have the most relevant and accurate weather insights at your fingertips, empowering you to make well-informed, confident decisions in any situation. With Clarity, you can rely on prompt, expert guidance to navigate even the most time-sensitive weather-related challenges.

Please also see Section 2.4 for more information.

2.11 Pre-Storm Briefings Required

Daily ODOT Weather Videos & Updates

A daily ODOT weather video is produced by ~7 AM ET, covering any “impactful” weather in the forecast over the next 24 hours to ~7 days, at the forecaster’s discretion.

Impactful weather includes, but is not necessarily limited to:

• Severe weather + timing

• Snow + timing (with a focus on pavement impacts or lack thereof)

• Ice + timing

• Freezing fog / fog

• Pavement frost

• Heavy rain / flooding rains

• Extreme temperatures

• “Non-thunderstorm” strong wind gusts

• General risks to the forecast

When winter weather is in the forecast, at minimum, both an AM and PM video will be provided.

Additional updates may be issued if significant forecast changes occur.

Video Guidelines:

• Videos are kept at 6 minutes and 5 seconds or less.

• When certain thresholds are met, a “special” ODOT video is sent to designated personnel within ODOT, who then distribute the information to other agencies within the Iowa government and ODOT.

Special ODOT Video Thresholds

Winter Weather:

• 6 inches or more of snow in the forecast (when confidence is high)

• ¼ inch or more of freezing rain (when confidence is high)

• Blizzard conditions (when confidence is high)

• NWS Winter Storm Watch issued for any county in Iowa

Non-Winter Weather:

• Non-thunderstorm winds exceeding 50 mph

• Next-day outlook of widespread high-rate rainfall or long-duration rain expected to cause flash flooding or river flooding affecting highways or bridges

• Storm Prediction Center issues a Moderate Risk (or higher) Day 1 Convective Outlook that includes an Iowa interstate corridor (or any part of Iowa for added value)

• Any county in Iowa under a Tornado Watch

Additional Weather Insights

Beyond videos, insights, images, and GIFs are shared to highlight impactful weather events.

At ODOT’s discretion, a meteorologist may join an ODOT Weather Coordination Call to provide a brief forecast overview and answer questions from attendees.

2.12 Mobile Access

Mobile access is available to any assigned user by ODOT via the Clarity app, which can be downloaded from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. This is a standard feature, not an add-on, as BAMWX recognizes the importance of providing users with the best weather information on the go.

Please refer to Section 2.1 for links to download the mobile app for mobile access.

2.13 Common Area Display

BAMWX provides common area display capability that enables real-time visibility of all data available in Clarity on TVs or other displays. This includes radar, temperature readings, RWIS data, and NWS alerts. This feature ensures that critical weather information is readily accessible for situational awareness and decision-making.

2.14 Staff Resumes/Experience

Resumes for all BAMWX staff are provided in Section III. Vendor Qualifications and Experience.

Weather Condition and Forecasting Requirements

3.1 Radar Satellite & General Condition Maps, Watches & Updates

BAMWX is proud to present our Clarity Platform as the solution that fully meets the requirements outlined in the RFP for National Weather Service (NWS) weather condition and forecasting products and services from September 1, 2023, to October 31, 2024. Our platform has been developed with advanced graphically enhanced capabilities and is designed to deliver comprehensive, user-friendly weather data for ODOT users.

Key Features of the Clarity Platform:

1. Graphically Enhanced Weather Products: The Clarity platform integrates National Weather Service (NWS) data and significantly enhances the graphical representation to improve user experience. This includes color-coded maps, intuitive overlays, and easy-to-understand weather visualizations for critical parameters such as air temperature, dew point, relative humidity, wind speed, precipitation, cloud cover, and more.

2. Real-Time and Dynamic Weather Forecasts: Clarity delivers up-to-date radar and satellite images relevant to ODOT, including color-enhanced water vapor satellite imagery. The platform supports loop control features, allowing users to view forecast animations in motion, with the ability to loop through each weather parameter at intervals of 3 hours or less. This feature allows users to visualize weather patterns dynamically at both national and state levels.

3. Multi-Day Forecasts: Clarity provides a range of per day forecasts, giving users a broad view of upcoming weather conditions. These forecasts are displayed through an easy-to-navigate interface where each map can be viewed separately or looped in a sequence. The platform also allows interactive features, where users can zoom in on specific regions or states for more detailed forecast data.

4. User-Centric Default Display: Upon initial access, the default view of the Clarity platform will automatically center Ohio as the dominant image on the map. This ensures that ODOT users are provided with relevant and localized weather data right away. The map features color-coded bands, point data overlays, and gradational shading to enhance clarity and readability.

5. Detailed Weather Parameters and Symbols: The Clarity platform includes the following specific map parameters as per the RFP requirement:

○ Air Temperature: Color-coded bands with selected point data overlays.

○ Dew Point Temperature: Color-coded bands with selected point data overlays.

○ Relative Humidity: Color-coded bands with selected point data overlays.

○ Wind Speed and Direction: Speeds shown in color-coded bands, with wind direction represented as arrows.

○ Precipitation: Color-coded bands with selected point data overlays.

○ Cloud Cover: Gradational shading to depict various cloud cover levels.

○ Jet Stream: Clear, intuitive jet stream track depiction.

○ Fronts, Highs, and Lows: Easily recognizable symbols and front icons.

6. Hosting, Maintenance, and Support: BAMWX offers full hosting, ongoing maintenance, and support services. Our team of weather experts provides continuous monitoring and updates to ensure that all products are accurate and delivered without interruption. The Clarity platform is backed by a team of experienced meteorologists who provide human intelligence to help interpret the data, ensuring that users receive the highest level of service and understanding.

In conclusion, BAMWX's Clarity platform fully meets the specified requirements in the RFP by delivering advanced, graphically enhanced weather products, user-friendly interfaces, interactive features, and comprehensive support. We are confident that Clarity will provide ODOT with the reliable and visually compelling weather data needed to make informed decisions for operations and planning throughout the contract period.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

The above is available for real time demonstration in the active Clarity account provided in Section 2.1.

3.2 Displays

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting and exceeding the requirements outlined in this section of the RFP. Our Clarity platform is designed to provide a robust and interactive user experience, delivering radar, satellite, and observed weather conditions, as well as ODOT RWIS data and other essential information, in a seamless and user-friendly interface.

Key Features of BAMWX’s Clarity Platform:

1. Radar, Satellite, and Observed Weather Conditions: The default view in the Clarity platform provides an integrated display of real-time radar, satellite imagery, and observed weather conditions, including storm reports upon request, directly relevant to ODOT users. This ensures users can view current weather conditions in a comprehensive manner, offering critical insights for decision-making.

2. ODOT RWIS Data Integration: In addition to weather conditions, the Clarity platform is capable of fully integrating ODOT's Road Weather Information System (RWIS) data, offering vital road condition data to inform transportation operations. This data will be presented in an intuitive and easily accessible way alongside other weather information.

3. Customizable Overlay Options: The platform allows users to toggle various overlay options, including traffic speed for driving lanes in each direction. These overlays provide a dynamic and interactive view of weather and traffic conditions, which users can adjust based on their specific needs. Options are clearly listed and can be toggled on or off for a personalized view.

4. Real-Time Data Delivery and Timeliness: BAMWX ensures that all weather data, including the specific overlays and updates, are delivered using the same mechanism as the forecast service. We guarantee that re-transmissions of all weather products will be made available within 5 minutes after receipt, ensuring that ODOT always receives timely and accurate information.

5. Current Watches, Warnings, and Winter Weather Advisory Messages: The Clarity platform includes live updates of current watches, warnings, and winter weather advisory messages in addition to BAMWX proprietary NOW Casts and Insights, presented for easy interpretation. When applicable, polygons are used to highlight affected areas. Color coding will be done in consultation with ODOT to ensure it aligns with the agency's preferences and standards.

6. Industry-Standard Display and Approval: All displays offered through the Clarity platform are designed to meet or exceed industry standards for weather data visualization and are fully customizable to suit ODOT's operational needs. Each display and its associated features will be subject to ODOT approval, ensuring that the final product meets the highest standards of functionality and visual clarity.

Conclusion:

BAMWX’s Clarity platform is fully capable of delivering the specified weather data, overlays, and interactive features within the timeframes and formats required by the RFP. We are committed to working closely with ODOT to ensure that the platform is tailored to their unique needs, with the flexibility to customize data displays, overlays, and messaging, all while providing timely, accurate, and actionable weather information.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

The above is available for real time demonstration in the active Clarity account provided in

3.3 Radar

BAMWX is well-positioned to meet and exceed the requirements outlined in this section of the RFP through our Clarity platform, leveraging our proprietary technologies and industry-leading data sources. Our platform is built to provide the highest level of weather accuracy and resolution, ensuring that ODOT receives the most reliable and up-to-date information to support operational and safety decisions.

Key Features of BAMWX’s Clarity Platform:

1. Proprietary Clarity Platform: The Clarity platform is BAMWX's advanced, in-house developed solution, specifically designed to provide real-time, high-resolution radar and weather data. This platform enables seamless integration of multiple data sources, ensuring that all data is presented with maximum accuracy and clarity for end-users.

2. Integration of MRMS (Multi-Radar/Multi-Sensor System): BAMWX utilizes MRMS, an advanced weather system that ingests data from multiple radar sources, enabling the delivery of high-resolution radar imagery. MRMS enhances our capability to provide detailed, accurate, and up-to-the-minute radar images, which are crucial for accurate weather forecasting and real-time decision-making.

3. Ingestion of Over 100 Weather Models: The Clarity platform integrates data from over 100 weather models, ensuring that ODOT receives the most accurate forecasts and weather conditions available. By processing data from such a wide range of models, we ensure high-resolution, comprehensive weather forecasts and radar imagery, tailored to meet the specific needs of ODOT. This integration ensures that no matter the weather situation, ODOT has access to the best possible data for planning and operational decisions.

4. High-Resolution Radar Imagery: BAMWX delivers high-resolution radar images that allow ODOT to track severe weather events with exceptional clarity. These high-res images are crucial for monitoring storm development and movement in real-time, giving ODOT the ability to respond quickly and effectively to changing weather conditions.

5. Proprietary Technology for Customization: As we manage all aspects of the Clarity platform in-house, BAMWX has full control over the technology, ensuring the flexibility to tailor features, data sets, and radar images specifically for ODOT. Whether it’s adjusting the visualizations or adding new data layers, we can rapidly customize the platform to meet evolving needs, making the service highly responsive to ODOT’s requirements.

6. Accuracy and Timeliness: By leveraging both MRMS and the extensive range of weather models, BAMWX ensures that the Clarity platform delivers weather data with the highest level of accuracy, resolution, and timeliness. The platform is designed to provide the most up-to-date weather data in near real-time, allowing ODOT to receive essential weather information for effective decision-making.

Conclusion:

BAMWX’s Clarity platform, powered by MRMS and the integration of over 100 weather models, ensures the delivery of high-resolution radar images and accurate weather data. With our proprietary technology, BAMWX is able to provide ODOT with the most precise, reliable, and customizable weather services available. We are committed to offering the highest level of service, ensuring that ODOT has access to the most accurate and timely weather data needed to support their operations effectively.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

3.4 Satellite

BAMWX is fully equipped to meet the requirements outlined in this RFP. We are able to provide real-time satellite imagery, including visible, infrared, and color-enhanced water vapor images.

Our systems are designed to deliver these images with high frequency, ensuring that the most up-to-date information is available as frequently as possible.

The colorized water vapor palette utilized by BAMWX is fully customizable and can be adjusted to meet ODOT's specific preferences, subject to approval. Additionally, all satellite imagery will be displayed at a national level, with advanced zoom capabilities that allow for seamless transition to state and regional levels. At higher zoom levels, we ensure that the geographic background is detailed, and at the state level, county boundaries will be included for better context and analysis.

BAMWX’s platform provides a control system capable of looping national satellite imagery with a minimum 2.5-hour loop interval. Users will also have the ability to pause and advance through individual images with ease, ensuring flexible interaction with the imagery.

Conclusion:

We are confident that our solutions will meet ODOT's needs for real-time, detailed, and user-friendly satellite imagery.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

3.5 NWS Observed Weather Condition Maps

BAMWX is committed to providing the most accurate and timely weather data to meet ODOT’s needs. Our advanced technology ensures that all information, including maps and weather parameters, is delivered in real-time or as frequently as practicable, allowing for near-instantaneous updates.

We will provide maps that display both the most current observations and the previous six (6) hours of data, ensuring a comprehensive view of weather conditions over time. Each image will be presented as a national map, as well as a state map that covers the entire state and adjacent portions of neighboring states for broader context.

The parameters provided will include:

● Air Temperature

● Dew Point Temperature

● Relative Humidity

● Wind Speed and Direction

● Hourly Radar-Estimated Precipitation with Ground Truth Observations Overlaid

● Observed Weather

At BAMWX, we utilize cutting-edge technology to ensure the most precise and real-time data possible, with an emphasis on accuracy and reliability. We understand the importance of timely and accurate weather information for ODOT’s operations, and our platform is designed to meet these needs with precision.

Conclusion:

We are confident that our solution will provide ODOT with the actionable, real-time weather insights needed to support informed decision-making.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

3.6 Observed Data Mapping Displays

BAMWX will provide maps in the specified format, featuring color-filled ranges for weather data, with observed data overlaid for clarity and ease of interpretation. Additionally, we will include “Observed Weather” maps that will display the observed weather conditions at reporting sites, presented without a color-filled background for a clear, straightforward view of current conditions.

This flexibility in map presentation ensures that ODOT has the most accurate and visually accessible weather data, whether for general weather trends or specific site observations.

BAMWX takes pride in having an in-house software development team dedicated to the continued evolution of the Clarity platform. All development within Clarity is proprietary, ensuring complete control over the platform’s capabilities and features. This directly benefits ODOT, as any specific feature, data set, user enhancement, radar image, or other customization requirements can be seamlessly integrated by our expert team. By working directly with ODOT, BAMWX will tailor the Clarity platform to meet the unique needs of ODOT, ensuring a highly personalized and optimized experience for the agency.

3.7 Display of RWIS Observed Condition Data

BAMWX is fully capable of ingesting and displaying all RWIS (Road Weather Information System) data, as well as integrating mobile RWIS unit data, to meet ODOT’s needs. We will display the location of all RWIS sites, as well as the most recent position of mobile RWIS units, as an optional overlay on the default or opening image of Ohio, in accordance with the specifications outlined in Section 3.0.

Our platform will seamlessly integrate both RWIS site data and mobile unit data, providing a full list of the latest atmospheric and pavement parameters received from each site. This data will be presented in an organized and user-friendly manner, and can be included on the same map as other weather information, including radar, satellite images, and National Weather Service bulletins.

BAMWX will provide a combined image display that overlays ODOT’s RWIS data with composite radar imagery. This option will feature an interactive menu, allowing users to display any available RWIS parameter with ease. Radar images will be updated no older than 10 minutes, ensuring that ODOT receives the most up-to-date information along with real-time RWIS data from all available sites.

Additionally, BAMWX will host this service on a reliable and secure website, providing easy access to these data visualizations. We are also fully equipped to ingest and display any other data upon request, such as river gauge data from Ohio EMA, ensuring flexibility to meet all of ODOT's evolving needs.

BAMWX is dedicated to delivering accurate, real-time, and customizable weather data that empowers ODOT to make informed decisions, with the ability to customize data displays based on ODOT’s specific requirements.

3.8 RWIS Data from CLARUS

BAMWX is fully able and more than willing to meet this requirement. We understand the importance of sharing Ohio RWIS data with the CLARUS Initiative. BAMWX will ensure that ODOT’s RWIS data is made available to CLARUS, in accordance with an agreed-upon method for data sharing. We are committed to collaborating with CLARUS to facilitate this data transfer and ensure seamless integration.

3.9 Summary Map Displays

BAMWX provides summary maps in Clarity that deliver the relevant data requested by ODOT, ensuring a comprehensive and user-friendly display of weather information. Specifically, our Clarity platform includes the following summary maps:

● High Temperature in the Last 24 Hours

● Low Temperature in the Last 24 Hours

● Radar-Estimated Precipitation in the Last 24 Hours with Observed (Ground Truth) Values

Overlaid

● Temperature Change in the Last 24 Hours

● Snowfall Amounts by Month, by County

In addition to these summary maps, BAMWX’s in-house development team has the capability to access and integrate all required data sets. This ensures that we can provide any additional data as requested by ODOT, delivering customized solutions to meet all of ODOT's needs with precision and flexibility.

Pavement Condition Forecasting Requirements

4.1 Location-Specific Weather and Pavement Forecasts

BAMWX is fully capable of providing location-specific weather and pavement condition forecasts to ODOT, ensuring all operational needs are met with the highest level of precision and accuracy. We provide forecast updates at the following recommended intervals:

Forecast:

♦ Now Tab/Current Conditions: Every 15 minutes

♦ Hourly: Every hour, 15 minutes past the hour

♦ Pavecast: Every hour, 15 minutes past the hour

♦ Daily: 4 times a day/ every 6 hrs, ~3AM, 9AM, 3PM, 9PM

♦ Video Tab: Mets update approx. 1 – 2 times a day. Around 6-7 AM daily with another update in the PM pending weather risks.

Radar Layers:

Current Radars:

♦ Radar: Every 2 minutes

♦ Lightning: Instant Alert / Instant Strike seen on radar ♦ Air Temp: Every 15 min ♦ Wind Speed and Direction: Every 15 min ♦ Visibility: Every 15 min ♦ Rotation Tracks (30 min): Every 2 min ♦ Hail Tracks (30 min): Every 2 min ♦ Hail Tracks (24 hr): Every 24 hrs, around 8 AM ♦ Visible Satellite: Every 5 min

Severe Risk: Every 24 hrs, around 8 AM

Observed Radars:

♦ Observed Rainfall: Every hr, 1 hour lag.

♦ Observed Snowfall: Every 24 hrs, around 8-9 AM

Future Radars:

♦ Wind Gusts (3 hr Max): Updates hourly, goes out next 15 hrs in 3 hr increments

♦ Radar: Updates hourly, goes out next 15.5 hrs in 30 min increments ♦ Visibility: Updates hourly, goes out next 15.5 hrs in 30 min increments ♦ Rain Forecast (24 hr total): Updated 6 times a day, ~3A, 6A, 9A, 3P, 6P, 9P ♦ Snow Forecast (24 hr total): Updated 6 times a day, ~3A, 6A, 9A, 3P, 6P, 9P ♦ Ice Forecast (24 hr total): Updated 6 times a day, ~3A, 6A, 9A, 3P, 6P, 9P ♦ Rain Forecast (7-day total): Updated 4 times a day, ~3A, 9A, 3P, 9P ♦ Snow Forecast (7-day total): Updated 4 times a day, ~3A, 9A, 3P, 9P ♦ Ice Forecast (7-day total): Updated 4 times a day, ~3A, 9A, 3P, 9P

In addition, all forecasts are available through BAMWX's Clarity web-based application, which allows real-time access to forecasted data, as well as historical RWIS data. Updates will be delivered promptly through Clarity, email, text messages, or push notifications, according to the specific needs and preferences of ODOT.

BAMWX's team of meteorologists will continuously monitor the forecasts and provide timely alerts for any significant weather changes. This ensures ODOT is always equipped with the latest data to make informed decisions for the safety of the traveling public.

We are committed to offering highly accurate forecasts, with flexibility and customization for the unique needs of ODOT.

4.2 Forecast and RWIS Histories

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting and exceeding the requirements outlined in this section. Our in-house development team maintains a comprehensive database of historical weather and pavement forecasts, which is accessible online, downloadable, and printable. The database is organized for efficient data retrieval, ensuring that ODOT can quickly access the relevant data when needed.

Our database will include all forecasts provided by BAMWX, as well as all RWIS data for each location throughout the duration of the contract. Historical RWIS data will be colorized and available in both tabular and graphical formats, allowing for easy interpretation and analysis.

Users will have the ability to define specific dates and times of interest to retrieve the data they need. All available data will be maintained and accessible for the full term of the contract.

Additionally, BAMWX’s in-house development team offers full flexibility in customizing data displays based on ODOT’s unique requirements. Whether it’s adjusting the presentation format or providing specific data views, we are committed to delivering tailored solutions that meet ODOT’s needs.

4.4 Presentation Formats

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting the requirement to provide location-specific forecasts in three different formats, as outlined in this section. We will deliver forecast information in the following formats:

● A geographic-based display on a map background, providing a visual representation of the forecast data.

● A point forecast for any location in the state, presented as a meteogram, for detailed, time-series forecasting.

● A point forecast in a tabular arrangement for clear, straightforward presentation of the forecast data.

We ensure that the forecast information will be consistent across all three delivery formats, so that location-specific data aligns seamlessly between the map, meteogram, and tabular views.

This consistency is paramount to ensuring that ODOT receives reliable and accurate weather data across all formats.

At BAMWX, we firmly believe in the human element of weather forecasting. Our team of experienced meteorologists actively monitors and verifies all forecast data, ensuring that it is accurate and aligned across all displays. This human oversight is key to maintaining data consistency and ensuring that all forecasts reflect the most current and reliable information available.

We are committed to providing ODOT with the most accurate, consistent, and user-friendly forecast displays, backed by expert meteorological oversight and robust data systems.

4.5 Map Displays

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting the requirement to display each weather parameter as overlays on top of a customizable background map. Our platform allows users to easily overlay parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and more, on a geographic background that includes state boundaries, large geographic features, and major highways.

Additionally, the map background can include further details, such as topography, county boundaries, additional highways, geo-political features (e.g., parks, forests), key locations, and other relevant features. Our flexible system ensures that ODOT can customize the map layers to meet specific needs and provide clear, informative visualizations for decision-making.

4.6 Weather Elements

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting this requirement in Clarity. Our platform allows for the overlay of weather elements in two distinct display layers, as specified:

1. First Layer: Color bands will represent values of the specified weather element within a given range. These color bands will clearly show boundaries between different values, similar to isotherms on a temperature map or isobars on a surface analysis, providing a visual representation of the weather data.

2. Second Layer: Forecast values will be displayed at key points (e.g., major cities), allowing users to correlate the color bands with specific values at those locations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the weather data.

BAMWX's Clarity platform is designed to present this information in a clear and intuitive way, enabling users to easily interpret and analyze weather data with both visual and numerical references.

4.7 Pavement Parameters

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting the requirements for graphical forecast loops. Our platform will allow users to view a radar loop of expected precipitation, as well as our meteorologist's insights and for the specified area over the next 24 hours. The graphical forecast will provide detailed information, including:

● Radar Loop of Expected Precipitation: A visual representation of anticipated precipitation in the area.

● Expected Start Time of Precipitation: The precise time when precipitation is expected to begin.

● Duration of Precipitation Event: The length of time the precipitation event is expected to last.

This forecast information will allow users to determine when and where precipitation will occur, as well as its intensity, ensuring accurate and actionable weather data for decision-making.

See Sample Image #6

4.8 Meteogram

BAMWX is fully equipped to meet ODOT's requirement for displaying location-specific weather forecasts showing the change in all weather parameters over the forecast period. Our platform offers comprehensive, easy-to-read metrograms that visualize the dynamic changes in weather conditions.

Key Features:

● Continuous Graph or Icon Representation: BAMWX’s meteogram will display weather parameters as either a continuous graph showing the readings over time or as icons representing conditions at each hour throughout the forecast period. This flexibility ensures that ODOT users can choose the display method that best suits their needs for a clear understanding of weather trends.

● Change of Weather Parameters: The meteogram will show the evolution of all required weather parameters (e.g., temperature, wind speed, precipitation, etc.) throughout the forecast period, providing a clear and concise view of how these parameters change over time.

● Two Methods of Location Selection:

1. List of Locations: ODOT users will be able to select locations from a list of specified locations (Attachment A) that is provided within the pricing spreadsheet.

The list will be easily accessible and viewable through our interface, allowing users to select their desired location quickly and intuitively.

2. Map-Based Selection: In addition to the location list, BAMWX also provides a map-based interface, where users can directly select a location on the map. This will give ODOT the flexibility to choose between a list-based approach or a visual, map-based selection for convenience.

Our user-friendly interface and customizable features allow ODOT to select, display, and interpret location-specific weather forecasts with ease. Additionally, BAMWX’s expert meteorologists are actively involved in the interpretation of the data, ensuring that the forecast remains accurate and actionable.

This combination of robust features, ease of use, and real-time, meteorological oversight ensures ODOT will have access to the best and most reliable weather forecasting tools available.

4.9 Pavement Temperature Overlay Maps

BAMWX is fully capable of providing the required graphical representation of pavement and bridge deck temperatures across Ohio. Our platform will include the following features to meet ODOT’s needs:

● Statewide Maps: We will provide statewide maps that depict pavement temperatures at 1-hour or 3-hour intervals over a 24-hour period, ensuring ODOT has accurate, real-time information to monitor conditions across the state.

● RWIS Overlay: These maps will include an overlay of relevant RWIS (Road Weather Information System) data, providing additional context and enhancing the accuracy of the pavement temperature information.

Additionally, BAMWX’s team is available to offer expert insights and support through our live chat feature, ensuring ODOT can easily access clarification or further details specific to pavement/bridge deck temperatures.

This solution will give ODOT the tools necessary to monitor and respond to roadway conditions effectively during changing weather events.

See Sample Image #4

4.10 Snow and Ice Maps

BAMWX is fully capable of meeting the requirements for snow and ice maps. Our platform will provide detailed regional maps depicting snow and/or ice precipitation events, including the…