RFP 2027-002 Intelligent Transportation Systems 8-12-2026 final.pdf

Berkshire Regional Transit Authority

Request for Proposal for

Intelligent Transportation Systems

RFP 2027-002

Date Issued: August 12, 2026

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Public Notice

Request for Proposal RFP 2027-02 Intelligent Transportation Systems

The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) is soliciting proposals from qualified transportation providers to supply install and support Intelligent Transportation Systems.

Any contract awarded under this RFP is subject to finance assistance contracts between BRTA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT), Federal Transit Administration (FTA), and/or the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The contract will therefore be subject to the regulations of both FTA and MassDOT.

In accordance with the current FTA guidelines, the selected Vendor will provide Intelligent Transportation Systems commencing November 1, 2026, for a term of three

(3) years, ending October 31, 2029, at the discretion of the Administrator.

Additionally, there is a possibility of two (2) one-year extensions to October 31, 2031, again at the discretion of the Administrator.

Solicitation Schedule

Submission process August 12, 2026 RFP Issued August 25,2026 Written Questions Due Prior to 11

AM

August 28, 2026 Answers to Questions September 16, 2026 Proposals Due Prior to 11 AM September 29-30, 2026 Oral Presentations- finalists

Evaluation Process

October 8, 2026 Final Selection October 13, 2026 Notice to Proceed sent October 28, 2026 Contract signed and work begins

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I. Table of Contents

General Information

Project Scope

Submission Requirements

Evaluation Criteria

Appendix A Cost Proposal

Appendix B Required Forms and Certifications

Appendix C Federal Clauses

Appendix D Procurement Protest Procedures

Appendix E Additional Information

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II. GENERAL INFORMATION

III. I. Overview The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) oversees and coordinates fixed route paratransit coach and micro-transit transportation services in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. The BRTA was one of eight original regional transit authorities (RTAs) created by state statute (MGL-161B) in 1974. Today, fifteen (15) RTAs are responsible for administering public transportation services throughout much of Massachusetts, outside of the Boston metropolitan area. The BRTA is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts operating under MGL-Chapter 161B and is funded through a combination of federal, state, and local monies, including farebox revenue.

Thirty (30) Berkshire cities and towns are members of BRTA, with fixed route bus service provided in twelve (12) communities. Paratransit transportation is provided in thirty (30) communities. Senior Rural micro-transit is provided in (17) communities. Each member community is represented on the BRTA Advisory Board by their chief elected official, or their designee. The Advisory Board meets throughout the year and is responsible for hiring the administrator, approving the budget, and deciding on any major changes to fares or service. Each community has a weighted vote determined by their amount of service and local assessment in relation to the total.

BRTA’s National Database Report submission for FY 2026:

Fixed Route Paratransit Unlinked Passenger Trips

666,129 65,315

Vehicle Revenue Miles

890,873 316,774

Vehicle Revenue Hours

48,774 23,711

Operating Expenses

$7,645,945 $2,724,012

IV. II. Service Area The BRTA serves a population of approximately 128,224 (2025 ACS,US Census). The daily service area spans a region as large as Rhode Island; bordered by Vermont to the north, New York to the west, and Connecticut to the south. Currently, fixed route service is served by fifteen (15) bus routes in twelve (12) communities from Williamstown to Great Barrington. All Communities who are members of the RTA include: Adams, Alford, Becket, Cheshire, Clarksburg, Dalton, Egremont, Florida, Great Barrington, Hancock, Hinsdale, Lanesborough, Lee, Lenox, Monterey, Mt. Washington, New Ashford, New

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Marlborough, North Adams, Otis, Peru, Pittsfield, Richmond, Savoy, Sheffield, Stockbridge, Washington, West Stockbridge, Williamstown and Windsor.

V. III. Vehicle Roster This vehicle list is as of December 2025.

Fixed Route: 19 vehicles:

(9) 35’ transit buses - (1) 2018 diesel (2) 2019 diesel (1) 2022 diesel

(5) 2024 hybrid

(1) 30’ transit buses - (1) 2005 diesel,

(9) 25’ minibuses -(1) 2018-2023 gasoline Link 413 Regional Coach Service

(4) 45’ MCI Over the Road Coaches 2014 Paratransit: 22 vehicles:

(17) 9-passenger gas minibuses - (4) 2018, (4) 2021, (6) 2022, (3) 2026

(5) 2024 14-passenger gas powered minibuses

All BRTA fixed route vehicles are equipped with Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) hardware and software including GPS, Automated Vehicle Location (AVL), Mobile Data Devices (MDD), and Automatic Passenger Counters (APC). All BRTA paratransit vehicles are equipped with ITS hardware and software including GPS, Automated Vehicle Location (AVL), and Mobile Data Devices (MDD). BRTA owns all vehicles, equipment, materials, and supplies. The ITS systems are the software and equipment we wish to acquire new.

VI. IV. Staff The Administrative office is in the Joseph Scelsi Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) complex at 1 Columbus Avenue in downtown Pittsfield. The BRTA staff includes five (5) administrative personnel. The BRTA has an operations and maintenance facility located at 67 Downing Parkway in Pittsfield. Keolis Berkshire Transit Services (KBTS) is the sub-corporation for Fixed Route and Paratransit Management. The current fixed route and paratransit contractor, Keolis, employs union personnel represented by Teamsters Union #404.

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Teamsters’ Local #404:

(30) Fixed Route Operators Full-time

(5) Fixed Route Operators Part-time

(5) Maintenance Operators Full-time

(4) Maintenance Utility Full-time

(2) Paratransit Dispatcher Full-time

(1) Paratransit Dispatcher Part-time

(20) Paratransit Operators Full-time

(67) Total

Non-Union Staff:

(1) General Manager Full-time

(1) Director of Transportation Full-time

(1) Director of Administration Full-time

(1) Director of Maintenance Full-time

(1) Procurement Coordinator Full-time

(1) Administrative Assistant Full-time

(1) Manager of Service Development

Full-time

(1) Routed Operations Manager Full-time

(1) Training and Compliance Manager

Full-time

(1) Mobility Services Manager Full-time

(4) Fixed Route Supervisors Full-time

(2) Fixed Route Dispatchers Full-time

(2) Mobility Dispatchers Full-time

(1) ADA Services Coordinator Full-time

(1) Operator Instructor/ Supervisor

Full-

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(2) Maintenance Supervisors Full-

(3) Maintenance ITC Janitors Full-time

(1) Rider Ambassador Full-time

(26) Total

VII. Hours of Operation

Fixed Route Service Hours:

Weekday service, ranging from 5:45 AM – 9:00 PM.

Selected Weekday service from 5:45 AM – 11:00 PM (3) Routes 1, 2, 34 Saturday service, ranging from 7:15 AM – 7:00 PM.

No Sunday service.

No service on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Link413 Coach Service Hours:

Weekday service, ranging from 6:30 AM- 9:00PM The Link service provided through an interagency cooperative agreement among (3) Regional Transit Authorities. They are Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, Franklin Regional Transit Authority and Pioneer Valley Regional Transit Authority.

(3) routes serve (2) communities from Pittsfield, via North Adams to Greenfield, MA and Pittsfield to Northampton, MA.

ADA Complementary Paratransit Service Hours:

Mirrors all fixed route service hours.

Non-ADA Paratransit Service Hours:

Weekday service 5:45 AM - 7 PM.

Saturday service 7:15 AM - 7 PM.

No Sunday service

Pilot Service Planned for this Contract Micro-transit service to be designed using new ITS services Senior Rural Transit- service to our rural communities: Alford, Becket, Clarksburg, Egremont, Florida, Hancock, Hinsdale, Monterey, Mt. Washington, New Ashford, New Marlborough, Otis, Peru, Richmond, Savoy, Washington, West Stockbridge, Windsor.

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VIII. Limitation on Funding

The BRTA operates with a combination of federal, state, local funds, and farebox revenue. The Contract resulting from this RFP will be subject to the availability of funds from BRTA’s funding sources and is contingent upon receipt of these funds by the BRTA. If funding from these sources is eliminated or decreased, the BRTA reserves the right to terminate the Contract of modify it accordingly.

VIII. Tax Exemption The Authority is exempt from the payment of Federal, State, and local taxes. Taxes must not be included in proposal prices. The Authority will furnish necessary exemption certificates upon request. Any additional sales tax, import, revenue, excise, or other taxes which are now, or which may be levied hereafter by Congress, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or any other political subdivision, which would be applicable to this proposal, and which by terms of the tax law, may be passed directly to the BRTA, will be paid by the BRTA

PROJECT SCOPE

I. Scope of Work- Purpose The BRTA seeks to obtain Intelligent transportation software and equipment to operate our fixed route, coach and on-demand services.

II. Technical Needs The Contractor will provide ITS systems of the character described in the technical specifications. Minor deviations from the following requirements may be accepted. If submitting a proposal with such differences, please clearly identify them within your proposal.

A. Computer Aided Dispatch/ Automated Vehicle Locator system

• Cloud based operations system

• Live bus tracking that uses real-time analytics for arrival predictions

• Live bus tracking from dispatch computers, tablets and mobile devices

• Current status of passenger load. Vehicle location should be visible for both dispatch and the public.

• Automatic GPS refresh rate of vehicle data of one to five seconds (1-5 seconds)

▪ All cloud software hosting charges must be included in the pricing. BRTA already supports mobile data charges for AVL routers and owns mobile numbers for each vehicle.

• Software must support historical tracking and playback features.

• Software must have the ability for BRTA to manage and implement routes changes, stop revisions and real-time route deviations.

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• Routes deviations must have the ability to be saved, time limited and implemented for special events such as snow routes or street fair closings.

• Live vehicle dispatching from home office and dispatching center at our terminal.

B. Mobile application and desktop software features

• Mobile applications must be compatible with industry standard operating systems like

Apple iOS and Android.

• Live bus tracking must be available for public users. GTFS live feed must have an open API to allow other apps such as Transit app to acquire the feed. Transit app is used statewide by MassDOT for all transit systems.

• Riders must be able to trip plan for multiple modes such as bus, coach, paratransit and on-demand services.

• Riders must be able to opt-in for text messaging alerts or automated phone alerts regarding service changes or weather updates as sent by dispatch.

• User must be able to save favorites and preferences for trips, routes and stops.

• All applications must be fully ADA accessible and compliant.

C. Mobile Data Interface for Operators All Services

• The terminal interface can be either a mobile data terminal or tablet.

• Single point driver log-in selects duty and identifies the operator.

• Pre-trip and post trip bus inspection reporting should be part of the log routine.

• Display should show route directions and next stop predictions. Real-time traffic updates are preferred.

• Because the BRTA doesn’t currently collect fares, the MDT must be able to be connected to future fare systems. BRTA currently uses Bus Plus application to collect fares on our coach services. Collections are done electronically, no cash.

• The MDT must allow the operator to count passengers, bikes and wheelchairs manually.

• Driver messaging feature should be included. Emergency alarm can be activated.

• Safe driver mode so the driver interface is not active above 10 MPH

D. Station and Information Services

• ITS systems must be able to supply real-time data to remote information displays.

Displays will be located in our terminals and future super stops along fixed route.

• The service should provide opportunity for infotainment on bus interior displays is highly desired. Messaging will include advertising for local businesses and cultural institutions.

• BRTA currently owns and operates the Joseph Scelci Intermodal Transportation Center. Real-time bus information must be displayed in our terminal. The software must have the ability to provide real-time information from other transportation providers such as Amtrak, Peter Pan and Greyhound, usually managed through an open API.

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E. Automated Voice Annunciators (AVA)

• Internal and external audio announcements with automated pre-set messages at designated locations, including announcements about the doors opening and closing.

• System must have the ability for BRTA staff to program announcements remotely and push them to vehicles.

• Announcements will be integrated with scrolling LED signs inside and outside vehicles.

F. Automatic Passenger Counters (APC)

• APC’s must track passengers exiting and boarding vehicles from each door. The

APC must be a product similar to the IRIS Irma on Air counter.

• Reporting must include ridership by route and stop by specific time; annually, monthly, weekly, daily, hourly, or minute and combinations thereof.

• APC’s must meet requirements for National Transit Database (NTD) reporting. Refer to reporting requirements contained in the RFP.

• APC’s are required for community shuttles, coach and transit bus vehicles only.

G. On Demand/ Paratransit Software

• Software must be able to be used by both types of services, paratransit and on-demand rides. Paratransit customers must meet criteria and approvals.

• An integrated paratransit application with the software is desirable.Eligibility mobule for paratransit applications included.

• Reservations must be able to be made by passengers or dispatch team via an app or desktop software. Customer may authorize a care giver or other personal care assistant to make reservations on their behalf.

▪ Same day reservation capability is a must.

▪ Services will be comingled for operational efficiency. Customer times automated grouped/ negotiated by the software automation.

▪ Customers may make a standing reservation and appointments as far as 14 days in advance.

▪ Cancelations must be made 1 hour before pick-up time.

▪ Customer profiles should contain information regarding any special requirements such as wheelchair or mobility device user. Disability information should also be noted.

▪ Pick-up location data for service is useful for rural or remote areas of Berkshire County; such as dirt road or steep drive.

• Real-time trip optimization is essential for optimizing the daily trip schedule. A continuous refresh rate is preferred.

• Customer profile should allow for future electronic payments. BRTA will be collecting payments in the future.

• Live vehicle tracking on dispatch and customer applications is a must.

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• Software must allow professional staff to assign rosters and duty assignments to a regular schedule. Real-time roster and duty adjustments must be a feature of dispatch software.

• In app driver communications feature must be included.

• Real-time directions and traffic information must be a feature of the driver interface.

Pre-trip and post trip inspection information automated to log-in. Trips optimized to traffic information.

• Safe driver mode so the driver interface is not active above 10 MPH

H. Training and Customer Service Support

• Contractor must provide a comprehensive training program that equips BRTA personnel for daily operations and routine maintenance of software and hardware.

• The Bidder must supply a list of courses offered including the name and description of each course. Training must be completed on-site in Pittsfield, MA. A budget of training hours must be listed in the proposal and should include but not limited to:

▪ CAD/AVL/APC/AVA System Administration

▪ CAD/AVL/APC/AVA System User Training; service planning

▪ Vehicle Operator Training

▪ Dispatch/ Supervisor Training

▪ Report Generation Training including specially required NTD reporting

▪ Maintenance Training

▪ Assistance with APC calibration and NTD certification process for Bidder’s

APC system

• BRTA desires a three-year service and support agreement with options for two 1-year extensions.

• Customer Facing Services Support and Training

• Staff must be trained to support information systems graphically for continuous updates; posting video, photos, text and other graphic materials.

• Staff must be instructed on how to assist our passengers with common questions about how to use any applications supplied by the vendors.

• Ai automated phone answering systems are desired to answer common questions such as “where’s my bus?” or “what is my pick-up time?”

• Ai Chat is also desired for web facing tools to answer common questions.

• Ai automated texted messages for customer information for both fixed route and paratransit.

I. Operations and Maintenance reporting module

• An option for a maintenance reporting module based upon vehicle per and post trip inspections is a desired option. The proposer should describe and price separately, unless already included in the software package.

• The system should also be able to integrate with KBTA’s Ron Turley maintenance management system.

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J. Warranty

• The Bidder must provide clear warranty information for all software, equipment services and installation for all components of the ITS system. Further, Bidders must warrant the system and services for a minimum of 1 year post installation.

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Solicitation Schedule

Submission Process August 12, 2026 RFP Issued August 25,2026 Written Questions Due Prior to

11AM

August 28, 2026 Answers to Questions September 16, 2026 Proposals Due Prior to 11 AM September 29-30, 2026 Oral Presentations

Evaluation Process

October 8, 2026 Final Selection October13, 2026 Notice to Proceed sent October 28, 2026 Contract begins

Questions submitted August 25, 2026 by 11AM to Kathleen Lambert, Administrator, kathleen.lambert@berkshirerta.gov

Proposals must be received on September 16, 2026 prior to 11 AM local time Send to:

Berkshire Regional Transit Authority 1 Columbus Avenue, Suite 201 Pittsfield, MA 01201

Attn: Kathleen Lambert, Administrator RFP 2027-02 Intelligent Transportation Systems

All dates are estimated and subject to change by BRTA. The BRTA reserves the right to hold oral presentations and negotiations with selected proposers during the evaluation period. Proposers must be flexible and available to schedule their participation in such activities, if requested. Should negotiations with the chosen Proposer fail to be complete by 11/1/2026, the BRTA reserves the right to terminate them and begin negotiations with the second-ranked Proposer.

Note: Please ensure that if a third-party carrier (Fed Ex, UPS, etc.) is used, that they are properly instructed to deliver your proposal to the BRTA Administration offices at the address listed above. To be considered, the proposal must be received and accepted at the BRTA Administration Offices before the RFP closing date and time.

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A proposal may be withdrawn in person or by a Proposer or their authorized representative, provided their identity is made known and they sign a receipt for the proposal, but only if the withdrawal is made prior to the exact time set for receipt of the offer. “Proposals may be withdrawn by written request received by the Authority at any time prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals. No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of 90 days after the deadline set forth herein for receipt of proposals.”

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS OF RFP 2027-02

I. General Requirements

A. Number of Copies Each respondent shall submit 1 original and 1 hard copy plus an electronic copy on a portable flash drive. The proposal shall be submitted to the BRTA prior to 11 AM on September 16, 2026 at the above address.

The Proposer is fully responsible for the delivery of the proposal. Reliance upon mail or public carriers is at the Proposer’s risk. Late and incomplete proposals will not be considered. Proposals received after the date and time specified or incomplete proposals will be rejected as non-responsive.

B. Proposal Compliance Each proposal shall conform to the requirements of this RFP in all respects to be considered responsive. Any proposal not in compliance with the guidelines will be disqualified and will not be evaluated. All required certifications must be complete, signed, and submitted with each proposal.

C. Contractor Selection Contractors may team up to provide a suite of services encompassing the requirements for the RFP. Teams must have a joint contract among themselves before proposing services to BRTA. The BRTA intends to select a Contractor who (1) submits a timely proposal responsive in conformance with this RFP, and (2) demonstrates through its proposal, information and any interviews, that may take place, the requisite experience and financial capacity to perform in a manner most advantageous to the BRTA.

Respondents may be asked to provide additional written information beyond that contained in their proposals from any Proposer at any time during the evaluation and selection process. The BRTA reserves the right to negotiate over all aspects of the proposal.

The respondent should not withhold any information from the written response in anticipation of presenting the information orally or in a demonstration, as both of these methods may not be solicited. The proposal must be signed by an official authorized to legally bind the respondent to all RFP provisions contained herein.

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Any name appearing on the US Comptroller General’s list of ineligible contractors will be considered an ineligible respondent.

D. Content and Format The proposal shall be typed, concise but comprehensive, and should be printed on 8 ½ x 11 paper on the long side. Proposal hard copies should be bound and organized including a “Table of Contents”. This will identify major areas, paragraphs, and subparagraphs by number and title as well as by page number. Tab indexing can be used to identify sections as appropriate.

Any changes made to this RFP will be made by addendum and will be sent to all respondents. Should any addendum be issued, certification of receipt of such information will be indicated by a signed form.

The proposal and all other accompanying documents or materials submitted by the respondent will be deemed to constitute part of the proposal. All submissions must be bound together into one book. Changes in the certificates, alternative proposals, or modifications of the proposal documents that are not specifically called for in the RFP will result in the rejection of the proposal. Any proposed change in the response to the RFP should be submitted in writing to the BRTA for its prior approval. The submitted proposal should not contain erasures, changes, or corrections.

The Proposer shall be solely responsible for all costs incurred in the preparation and submittal of the proposal. No reimbursements will be made by the BRTA for any costs incurred by the Proposer.

Bonding requirements:

FTA Procurement best practices require a bid bond of 5% of the proposed grand total contract price. The bid guarantee must consist of a firm commitment such as a bid bond, certified check, or other negotiable instrument accompanying the bid assurance that the bidder will upon receipt of the bid execute such documents as maybe required within the time specified.

E. Reservation The BRTA reserves the right, at any time, to issue addenda to this RFP or to adjust the procurement schedule if its deemed in the BRTA’s best interest to do so. The BRTA reserves the right to reject all proposals resulting from this RFP if it is deemed in the best interests of the BRTA to do so.

F. Inspection Proposers shall permit authorized representatives of the BRTA to inspect the Proposer’s data, facilities, equipment, and records relating to this RFP. Unsubstantiated statements or the refusal to permit the audit or inspection will cause the Proposer to be deemed non-responsive.

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G. Proprietary Information All proposals shall become the property of the BRTA. If any proprietary information is contained in or attached to a proposal, it must be clearly identified as such. If more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the contents are specified as proprietary information, the Proposal may be deemed as non-responsive. Please note that the BRTA is subject to the provisions of the General Laws of Massachusetts regarding public records.

H. Withdrawal of Proposal Proposals may be withdrawn by written request by the BRTA at any time prior to the deadline for proposals. No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of 90 days after the deadline set herein for receipt of proposals.

I. Non-Discrimination In connection with the execution of a contract with the BRTA, the Contractor shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin. The Contractor shall take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin. Such actions shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion, transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training including apprenticeship. The Contractor further agrees to insert a similar provision in all subcontracts, except subcontractors for standard commercial supplies or raw materials.

J. Equal Employment Opportunity The selected Contractor shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, sex, or national origin. Such actions shall include but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion of transfer, recruitment, or recruitment advertising, layoff or terminations, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training including apprenticeship

K. Inquiries and Correspondence All correspondence relating to RFP 2027-02 Intelligent Transportation Systems should be addressed to:

Berkshire Regional Transit Authority 1 Columbus Ave, Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201 Attn: Kathleen Lambert, Administrator kathleen.lambert@berkshirerta.com

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Reservation of Rights and Disclaimers

1. The BRTA is requesting responses to this RFP pursuant to its determination that such a process best serves the interests of the BRTA and the general public.

2. The BRTA shall not be responsible in any manner for any costs associated with responses to this RFP.

3. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to undertake discussions with one or more Respondents or any third party, to waive any irregularities, to waive defects or non-compliance in the filing or contents of any proposal, and to proceed with that proposal, or elements of one or more proposals, if any, which in its sole judgement will, under circumstances, best serve the BRTA’s interest.

4. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right to amend the terms of this RFP at any time, and to solicit and accept modifications to any proposal at any time when it is in the best interest of the BRTA to do so.

5. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to choose or reject any proposal received in response to this RFP, either on the basis of an evaluation of the factors listed in this RFP or for other reasons, whether or not any proposal offers the highest monetary compensation to the BRTA or any other public entity.

6. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to reject any and all proposals or to suspend or abandon this RFP process at any time, with no recourse for any Respondent.

7. The information contained in this RFP and in any subsequent addenda or related documents is provided as general information only. The BRTA makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees that the information contained herein is accurate or complete. The furnishing of such information by the BRTA shall not create or be deemed to create any obligation or liability upon it for any reasons whatsoever, and each recipient of the RFP, by submitting a proposal to the BRTA, expressly agrees that it has not relied upon the foregoing information, and that it shall not hold the BRTA, or any third party who advised or prepared a report for the BRTA, liable or responsible therefore in any manner whatsoever.

8. The BRTA may, at any time, request further information from any Respondent, and interview any Respondents to more fully understand their responses to this RFP.

9. Neither the expression of any Respondent’s interest, nor the submission of any Respondent’s qualifications and any documents or other information, nor the

Page | 18 acceptance thereof by the BRTA, nor any correspondence, discussions, meetings, or other communications between a Respondent and the BRTA, nor a determination by the BRTA that the Respondent is qualified hereunder, shall (i) impose any obligation on the BRTA to include the Respondent in any such further procedures which the BRTA may utilize prior to the final selection of a Respondent, (ii) be deemed to impose any obligation whatsoever on the BRTA to select the Respondent, or to enter into negotiations with the Respondent, or (iii) entitle the Respondents to any compensation or reimbursement for any costs or expenses incurred by the Respondent in connection with the Respondent’s submission hereunder. No costs of responding to the RFP or any addenda thereto, nor the attending any subsequent interviews or meetings in connection with this opportunity, shall be reimbursed by the BRTA.

10. The BRTA may consult individuals familiar with each Respondent regarding the Respondent’s prior operations and development or management projects, financial plan, past performance, experience and qualifications, or other matters, whether or not the specific individuals are identified in the RFP response. Submission of a Proposal in response to the RFP shall constitute permission for the BRTA to make such inquiries and authorize third parties to respond thereto.

11. The individual responses to this RFP, including all drawings, plans, photos, and narrative material shall become the property of the BRTA upon their receipt thereof. The BRTA will maintain the confidentiality of any material that is provided in response to this RFP and clearly marked “Confidential”, to the maximum extent possible, in a manner consistent with applicable law. Given the nature of the Commonwealth’s public records law, Respondents should nevertheless be aware that any information given to the BRTA in response to this RFP or any correspondence, discussion, meeting, or other communication between the Respondent and the BRTA before, with, or after the submission of the response, either orally or in writing, may not be, or may not be deemed to have been, proprietary or confidential.

12. Neither the members of the BRTA nor any individual member, nor any officer, agent, or employee thereof shall be charged personally by a Respondent or any third party with any liability or held liable to it under any term or provision of this RFP nor any statement made herein.

13. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to disqualify any team, firm, or individual from any phase or component of the selection process, due to: (i) felonious or other criminal record in any jurisdiction (domestic or foreign); (ii) a determination by the BRTA that the Respondent has failed to disclose any matter that materially relates to the fitness or ability of the Respondent to perform the work and services associated with this RFP or a conflict of interest; or (iii) a determination that such disqualification would serve the public interest.

14. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right to: (1) disqualify any prospective Respondent or reject any response at any time solely on the grounds that a real or

Page | 19 perceived legal or policy conflict of interest is presented; (2) require any prospective Respondent to take any action or supply any information necessary to remove the conflict, including without limitation, obtaining an opinion from the State Ethics Commission; or (3) terminate any contract arising out of this RFP if, in the opinion of the BRTA, any such relationship would constitute or have the potential to create a real or perceived conflict of interest.

15. The BRTA reserves the unqualified right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to reject any subcontractor or individual working on a consultant team, and to replace the subcontractor, consultant, or individual with a mutually acceptable replacement.

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Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

I. Evaluation Criteria The Contract will be awarded to the most responsible and responsive Proposer achieving the highest score in accordance with the criteria established by this RFP. All relevant information submitted by the Respondent will be used to evaluate its proposal.

The proposals will be evaluated using a weighted scale as noted:

1. Application and quality of Proposer’s ITS products 30%.

2. The capabilities and experience of the proposed team 10%.

3. The availability and plan for installation and training 20%

4. The availability proposer’s service and support network 20%

5. Cost 20%

Total Score: 100%

A Review Committee will be appointed by the Administrator to evaluate all qualified proposals. The Administrator may participate on the committee, directly or by a designee. The Administrator will make the final decision considering the final recommendation of the Review Committee but will not be bound by that final recommendation. Any attempt by any Proposer to contact, either directly or indirectly, any member of the Review Committee, will result in the disqualification of the proposer. The BRTA reserves the right to select firms for a presentation at their sole discretion. Submittal of the proposal is not a guarantee of a presentation to the Review Committee. Issuance of the RFP does not commit BRTA to award a contract, to pay any costs incurred in preparation of the proposals in response to this request, or to contract for services. The BRTA will not engage in exclusionary or discriminatory practices in the solicitation or award of this contract. The BRTA will not give preference to a Proposer due to geographical consideration.

A. Relevant Experience and Qualifications of the Proposer

1. Describe the firm’s overall qualifications and experience to provide the services requested in the RFP. A list of relevant references, minimum of (3) must be provided with full contact information and individual to contact directly.

2. Identify all other public transit services where ITS is provided. Include information which will show the complexity of the services provided.

3. List any awards and recognition which the Proposer has received.

4. Describe in detail any public transit innovations, cost saving initiatives, etc. that the Proposer provided and demonstrated system metric improvements.

5. Provide an organizational history and structure, the number of years in the ITS system industry, and current ownership arrangement, including the Ownership interests of 10% or more.

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6. Provide a full and complete description of any recent (3 years), current, or pending litigations involving the Proposer’s.

7. For Respondents that are or include corporations not chartered in Massachusetts, a Foreign Corporation Certificate authorizing the corporation to do business in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

8. Provide a copy of the most recent annual report.

9. Provide an organizational chart identifying senior management and how the services described in the RFP would be handled.

10. Include a financial statement, preferably a certified audit, provided by a third party for the latest fiscal year. The statement can be labeled Confidential.

11. Attach evidence of required insurance coverage; a properly completed ACORD

Form or other evidence of availability of insurance. Insurance requirements are as follows:

i. Commercial Auto Liability: $5,000,000 should be carried. BRTA and KBTS, it’s employees, officers, should be named as additional insured.

ii. General Liability: 5,000,000 should be carried. BRTA and KBTS, it’s employees, officers, should be named as additional insured.

iii. Directors & Officers Liability coverage of $1,000,000

iv. Workman's Compensation Insurance covering all local Contractor personnel, excluding the resident General Management Team and by the Massachusetts Workman's Compensation Act, as amended. $1,000,000

v. Cyber Insurance Liability- coverage of $1,000,000 limit

vi. Pollution Liability- environmental hazardous material exposure- limit would be 1,000,000

vii. Crime / Fidelity bond – limit would be 1,000,000 coverage for handling money, and fares.

Protests The BRTA procedures for handling of protests are documented in the Protest Procedures in Appendix D.

I. Notification of Contract Award

1. The BRTA reserves the right to award the contract to the proposer that the BRTA deems to offer the best overall value. The BRTA, therefore, is not bound to accept a proposal on the basis of lowest price. In addition, the BRTA at its sole

Page | 22 discretion, reserves the right to cancel this RFP, to reject all proposals, to waive any and all informalities and/or irregularities, or to re-advertise with either the identical or revised specifications, if it is deemed to be in the best interest of the BRTA to do so.

2. The BRTA will provide written notification of its intent to award a contract to the successful respondent. Before awarding any contract, the Authority will verify, using the Federal Excluded Parties Listing System that the offeror recommended for the contract award has no unsatisfactory performance history that would prohibit awarding them a contract.

3. One contract award shall be made.

4. The contract will be awarded to that responsible offeror whose offer is responsive, conforming to the solicitation, and will be the most advantageous to the Authority, price and other factors considered.

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RFP 2027-02

Appendix A Cost Proposal Form

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RFP 2027-31.01

APPENDIX A: BRTA MANAGEMENT FEE COST PROPOSAL FORM

B. Use Separate Sealed Envelope Identify the Monthly Software Service Fee, per year, your organization will charge the BRTA for the requested services. This fee includes the Management Team’s salary and fringes, support services provided by your organization, and profit. Provide detailed explanation for periodic support service’s cost outside the annual management fee for the Management Team’s salary and fringes. Optional cost scenarios may be submitted in addition to this form, and more lines can be utilized.

C. SOFTWARE FEE

Software Fee MONTHLY ANNUAL

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4- option Year 5- option

D. HARDWARE COST

Item Description Qty Cost

E. INSTALLATION AND TRAINING COST

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F. OPTIONAL SERVICES

G. SOFTWARE UPGRADES AND SERVICES

Describe criteria and additional costs for software upgrades during the term of the contract.

(Please use as many pages as needed to explain your cost proposal, the form is a guide)

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Appendix B: Required Forms and Certifications

ALL FORMS MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED TO BRTA

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Proposer’s Check List All responses will be required to have completed the following forms as part of being deemed responsive to this Request for Proposals. PLEASE NOTE: A number of the following forms must be notarized.

Failure to supply the properly notarized form may render the RFP response non-responsive.

ATTACHMENT

Proposer Check

Off

BRTA

Check Off

Acknowledgement of Receipt of RFP

Transmittal Letter

General Information Form

Bid Bond

Customer Reference Listing

Addendum Log

Certification of Contractor Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

Certification of Compliance with Restrictions on Lobbying

Certification of Compliance for Drug Free Workplace

Non-Collusion Certification

Affidavit of Authenticity

Conflict of Interest & Clean Hands Disclosure Form

Officers and Significant Stakeholders

MA DOR Certification

Federal Certifications and Assurances

BRTA procurement protest policy

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF RFP

Request for Proposals RFP-2027-02 Intelligent Transportation Systems

Name of Firm:

Contact Person:

Address:

Telephone Number:

Fax Number:

Email:

Age of your Firm:

Annual Gross Receipts:

UEI Number:

MA Certified DBE:

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GENERAL INFORMATION FORM

Name of Organization:

Telephone: FAX:

Authorized Contact: Name:

Title:

Telephone:

Organization is (check appropriate block):

Corporation Joint Venture Quasi-public Agency Partnership Sole Proprietorship Other (explain) Association Public Agency

The undersigned, being cognizant of the pages, documents and attachments concerned herewith agrees to provide the BRTA with the services described in the Request for Proposals dated October 5, 2020.

The stated Proposal shall be firm for 90 days from the due date of this document.

The Respondent agrees to comply with contractual requirements pertaining to Equal Employment Opportunity, Fair Employment Practices, DBE Participation goals, and other Federal and State requirements.

The Respondent hereby affirms that this response is genuine, truthful representation or collusive, and is not made in the interest of any person not therein named.

Authorized Signature Date

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H. RESPONSE GUARANTY

This response shall not be withdrawn before the expiration of ninety (90) calendar days from the date of the response opening.

The respondent shall acknowledge this response by signing and completing the spaces provided below.

IF AN INDIVIDUAL, PARTNERSHIP, OR NON-INCORPORATED ORGANIZATION

WITNESS BY: (please print)

Signature: _

Signature of Proposer:

Address of Proposer:

(Attach names and addresses of members of the firm)

IF A CORPORATION

WITNESS BY: (please print)

Signature:

Signature of Proposer:

Address of Proposer: Imprint of Corporate Seal:

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IX. CUSTOMER REFERENCE LISTING

Responses shall include the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of a minimum of three (3) firms or government organizations for which the Respondent is currently furnishing or has furnished, in the past, completed service for this type and size of project.

Company Name

Address

Contact Person

Telephone Number

( Add additional references as needed)

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X. ADDENDUM LOG

The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the following amendments to the documents:

Addenda No.: Date:

Addenda No.: Date:

Addenda No.: Date:

Failure to acknowledge receipt of all addenda may cause the proposal to be considered non-responsive to the solicitation. Acknowledged receipt of each addendum must be clearly established and included with Offer.

Date:

Company Name:

Authorized Person:

Title:

Signature: Date: __________

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CERTIFICATION OF CONTRACTOR DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION, AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY

MATTERS

The potential contractor for the BRTA, contract (primary participant), certifies to the best of its knowledge and belief, that it and its principals:

1. Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transaction by any Federal department or agency.

2. Have not been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for; commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain or performing a public (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property:

3. Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity

(Federal, State or local) with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (2) of this certification; and

4. Have not within a three-year period preceding this application/proposal had one or more public transactions (Federal, State or local) terminated for cause or default.

(If the primary participant is unable to certify any of the statements in this certification, the participant shall attach an explanation to this certification)

THE PRIMARY PARTICIPANT, CERTIFIES OR

AFFIRMS THE TRUTHFULNESS AND ACCURACY OF THE CONTENTS OF THE STATEMENTS

SUBMITTED ON OR WITH THIS CERTIFICATION AND UNDERSTANDS THAT THE PROVISIONS ON

31 U.S.C. SECTIONS 3801 ET SEQ ARE APPLICABLE THERETO.

Sign Date

Signature & Title of Authorized Official

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CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING

I, [print name] , do hereby certify on behalf of

[firm name] that:

(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any federal grant, the making of any federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

(2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form- LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions.

(3) All subcontractors and sub-recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.

This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance is placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title.

31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure.

Executed this day of , 20__.

By:

(signature of authorized official)

(title of authorized official)

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CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE FOR

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) in response to passage of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, has published two regulations prohibiting drug use and alcohol misuse.

These regulations are 49CFR part 655, “Prevention of Alcohol Misuse and Prohibited Drug Use in Transit Operations”.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the FTA have agreed that transit agencies with safety-sensitive employees holding Commercial Driver’s (CDL’s) as well as standard motor vehicle licenses are covered by the FTA drug and alcohol regulations. These regulations are not limited to holders of CDL’s and affect all employees who perform safety-sensitive functions, including those who are employed by a contractor hired by the transit agency to provide transit services.

The FTA has determined that “safety sensitive” functions are performed by those employees who operate revenue service vehicles that require drivers to hold CDLs and standard motor vehicle licenses, dispatch or control revenue service vehicles and maintain revenue service vehicles or equipment used in revenue service. These categories include supervisors who perform these functions. The types of drug and alcohol tests required by the FTA regulations are pre-employment, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, random, return to duty and follow-up.

The Potential Contractor for the BRTA, certifies the Company and its sub-contractors (if applicable) affirm a Drug Free Workplace Policy has been established and agrees to comply with requirements of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Act of 1991.

Signature of Authorized Official Date Signed

Print Name:

Title:

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NON-COLLUSION CERTIFICATION

By submission of this proposal, each respondent and each person signing on behalf of any respondent certifies, and in the case of a joint proposal, each party certifies as to its own organization, under the penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and behalf:

1. The prices in this Proposal have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communication, or agreement for the purpose of restricting competition as to any matter relating to such prices with any other Respondent or with any other competitor:

2. Unless otherwise required by law, the prices quoted in this Proposal have not been knowingly disclosed by the Respondent, directly or indirectly, to any other Respondent or to any other competitor prior to opening; and

3. No attempt has been made or will be made by the respondent to induce any other person, partnership, or corporation to submit or not submit a Proposal for the purpose of restricting competition.

Respondent

Date

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AFFIDAVIT OF AUTHENTICITY

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

, being first duly

Sworn, deposed that he is

(A partner or officer of the firm) that the party made the foregoing Proposal; that such Proposal is genuine and not collusive or sham; that said respondent has not colluded, conspired, connived or agreed directly or indirectly with any Respondent or person, to put in a sham proposal or to refrain from submitting a proposal, and had not in any manner, directly or indirectly; sought by agreement or…