RFP No. 2026-03-REBID - Bus Stop Signage Replacement (rlb) 10-09-2026.pdf

BIRMINGHAM-JEFFERSON COUNTY TRANSIT AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS - RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

BUS STOP SIGNAGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Bus Stop Signage Replacement Project

October 9, 2026

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

DATE: October 9, 2026

TO: ALL PROSPECTIVE PROPOSERS

SUBJECT: NOTICE FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

BUS STOP SIGNAGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Dear Prospective Proposers, The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) invites you to submit a proposal in response to Request for Proposal - RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID.

A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM (CST). This meeting will take place both virtually and in person at the BJCTA Headquarters, located at 1801 Morris Avenue, 2nd floor Board Room, Birmingham, Alabama 35203.

To be considered, proposals must be received no later than 2:00 PM (CST) on Thursday, November 12, 2026. The RFP, including instructions and requirements, is available for download on BJCTA’s PlanetBids portal. First-time users must register (registration is free).

All questions regarding this RFP must be submitted in writing via PlanetBids. The deadline for submitting questions is Friday, October 29, 2026, at 3:00 PM (CST). Responses to inquiries received before the deadline will be posted on the PlanetBids website.

For additional information, please contact us at: procureproposals@bjcta.org.

Please include Solicitation No. and Project Name: RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID - Bus Stop Signage Replacement Project.

We appreciate your interest in partnering with BJCTA and look forward to receiving your proposal.

Sincerely, BIRMINGHAM-JEFFERSON COUNTY TRANSIT AUTHORITY

Rita L. Barren Director of Procurement, Contracts & Materials https://pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/55902/portal-home mailto:procurebids@bjcta.org

RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

Bus Stop Signage Replacement Project

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL– RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

“BUS STOP SIGNAGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT”

PROPOSED SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

RFP Release Date: Thursday, October 9, 2026

Pre-Bid Conference: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM (CST) Join In-person or virtually by clicking Join the meeting now.

Deadline for Questions: Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 3:00 PM (CST) (Submit questions via PlanetBids)

Response to Questions: Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM (CST)

Proposal Due Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM (CST)

Bid/Proposal Bond: A Bid Bond of 5% of the total Proposal price is required with this RFP.

All documents, questions, responses and addendum must be submitted in the BJCTA’s PlanetBids Vendor Portal

ALL DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED AS FOLLOWS:

All Proposals must be submitted through BJCTA’s PlanetBids Vendor Portal no later than 2:00 PM (CST) on Thursday, November 12, 2026. Project Name: “BUS STOP SIGNAGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT”

FULL PROPOSAL PACKAGES SHALL NOT BE MORE THAN SEVENTY-FIVE (75) PAGES.

(This includes Cover Page, Table of Contents, and Attachments. Each side is considered 1 page.)

Unless written authorization is provided by the BJCTA Procurement Department, no other official or employee may speak for the BJCTA regarding this solicitation until the award decisions are complete. Any Proposer seeking information, clarification, or interpretations from any other official or employee uses such information at their own risk, and BJCTA is not bound by such information. Following the submittal deadline, and until a contract is fully executed, Proposers shall continue to direct communications to only the BJCTA Procurement Department identified above.

COMPANY NAME: PHONE #:

ADDRESS: CITY/STATE/ZIPCODE:

CONTACT PERSON NAME: E-MAIL:

UNIQUE ENTITY ID (UEI) # (As required by SAM.GOV) https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/243431334237946?p=IS5JjKUvXqBc4VKyiQ https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/243431334237946?p=IS5JjKUvXqBc4VKyiQ https://pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/55902/portal-home

CONFIRMATION OF RECEIPT

BUS STOP SIGNAGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Please complete this form and return it to BJCTA Procurement Department within 5 days of the proposal deadline.

Please submit the completed form via procureproposals@bjcta.org.

This form is to verify that the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) has been received. It is also to ensure that each Proposer has received a Request for Proposal and is given the opportunity to respond. If an addendum is issued and posted on BJCTA’s PlanetBids Vendor Portal, the contact information provided on this form could also be used to distribute the information.

COMPANY NAME: PHONE:

ADDRESS: CITY/ST/ZIP:

CONTACT PERSON: EMAIL:

(Check “Yes” or “No”)

Small Business Vendor? □ Yes □ No

All copies clear and free from obstruction? □ Yes □ No

Will RFP (Cover Sheet) be attached to this confirmation page? □ Yes □ No

Will you be submitting a proposal for this service? □ Yes □ No

(IF “NO”, PLEASE PROVIDE A REASON IN THE COMMENTS SECTION)

COMMENTS:

CERTIFIED BY: DATE:

(Proposer Signature)

PRINTED NAME:

mailto:procureproposals@bjcta.org

Table of Contents

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – RFP NO. 2026-03-REBID

Contents

SECTION 1: INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

1.1 General and Background Information

1.2 Bid Bond

1.3 Definitions

1.4 Minimum Qualifications

1.5 No Offer by BJCTA; Firm Offer by Proposer

1.6 Performance Bond and Payment Bond

1.7 Electronic Proposals

1.8 Additional Documentation

1.9 Restrictions on Communication

1.10 Cone of Silence

1.11 Proposal Submission Deadline and Opening

1.12 Ownership of Proposals

1.13 Price Proposal Evaluation

1.14 Proposal Evaluation Criteria

1.15 Rejection of Proposals; Cancellation of RFP; Waiver of Technicalities

1.16 Alabama Open Records Act

1.17 Protests

1.18 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex

1.19 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age

1.20 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability

1.21 Drug or Alcohol Abuse - Confidentiality and Other Civil Rights Protections

1.22 Access to Services for People with Limited English Proficiency

1.23 Other Nondiscrimination Laws

1.24 Remedies

1.25 Tax Exemption

1.26 RFP Selection Process Timeline

SECTION 2: CONTENT OF PROPOSALS AND SUBMITTALS

2.1 General Content of Proposals

2.2 Definitions for Technical Evaluation

2.3 Technical Proposal

2.4 Price Proposal

SECTION 3: SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

3.1 Personnel

3.2 Familiarity

3.3 Restriction on Disclosure and Use of Data

3.4 Employment Restriction Warranty

3.5 Language and Currency

3.6 DBE Participation

3.7 Applicable Regulation

3.8 Buy America Compliance

3.9 Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment Clause

3.10 Utility Locations and Responsibility

3.11 Differing Site Conditions – Utility Conflicts

3.12 Contractor Damage Liability Clause

3.13 Practical Signage-Specific Addition

EXHIBIT A: DETAILED SCOPE OF WORK (CORE SERVICES)

PART 4: PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL FORMS

PRICE PROPOSAL FORM

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF ADDENDA

VENDOR DATA FORM

CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT

IMMIGRATION AFFIDAVIT

NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

LOBBYING CERTIFICATION

DEBARMENT CERTIFICATION

BUY AMERICA CERTIFICATION

BID BOND

PAYMENT BOND

PERFORMANCE BOND

SCHEDULE B – DAVIS-BACON ACT ACKNOWLEDGMENT

WAGE DETERMINATION

APPENDIX A – FEDERAL CLAUSES

SAMPLE CONTRACT

SECTION 1: INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

1.1 General and Background Information

The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Agency (“BJCTA”) is a regional transportation company servicing the Metro Birmingham area responsible for public transit fixed route and demand response service (Paratransit) in ten (10) municipalities: Birmingham, Bessemer, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Midfield, Center Point, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Tarrant, and Fairfield. Its current service area is more than 200 square miles with a demand population base of 400,000.

1.2 Bid Bond

A Bid Bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total proposal cost is required with this solicitation. Failure to submit the required Bid Bond will result in the bid being deemed non-responsive. As proposals are submitted electronically, proposers shall deliver the original bid bond (check or approved security) before the proposal deadline in accordance with the instructions set forth herein.

1.3 Definitions

The following terms shall have the following meanings when used throughout this Invitation for Proposal (“RFP"):

Proposer: Each Firm or aggregation of Firms (which may include a joint venture partnership, limited liability company or limited liability partnership) submitting a proposal in response to this RFP with the intent of performing the services as the prime contractor.

Firm(s): A Firm that has or will obtain, prior to the execution of any contract awarded hereunder, all necessary licenses required by the State of Alabama to perform the Services and is authorized to do business in the State of Alabama.

Proposal(s): A written response to this RFP prepared by a Proposer and submitted to BJCTA’s

Office Procurement.

1.4 Minimum Qualifications

To participate in this procurement, Proposal must satisfy the minimum qualifications required by this RFP. Where the Proposer is a partnership, joint venture arrangement, limited liability company, limited liability partnership or other multiple entity organization, the entity that holds a majority ownership interest in the Proposer (i.e., over 50% ownership) must meet the minimum requirements set forth in this RFP. Additionally, prior to execution of the Contract, the successful Proposer will be required to demonstrate that it is duly authorized to conduct business in the State of Alabama.

No Proposer or entity comprising Proposer may submit more than one proposal under the same or different names or as part of multiple organizations. BJCTA reserves the right to disqualify any Proposer or entity comprising Proposers that submits more than one proposal in response to this solicitation. NOTE: This restriction set forth in this paragraph is not applicable to subcontractors.

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFP, Proposer represents and warrants to BJCTA that Proposer has or will acquire all of the licenses, certifications, permits, bonding capacity and insurance.

By submitting a proposal concerning this procurement, Proposer acknowledges that it is familiar with all laws applicable to this procurement, including, but not limited to, all of BJCTA’s policies and procedures (as the same may change from time to time), all of which is incorporated into this RFP by this reference.

1.5 No Offer by BJCTA; Firm Offer by Proposer

This procurement does not constitute an offer by BJCTA to enter into an agreement and cannot be accepted by any Proposer to form an agreement. This procurement is only an invitation for offers from interested Proposers and no offer or proposal shall bind BJCTA. However, Proposer’s offer is a firm offer to BJCTA for a period of 120 calendar days from the Proposal Deadline and may not be withdrawn during such time period.

1.6 Performance Bond and Payment Bond

The successful Proposer shall be required to furnish both a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the total contract price, as a condition precedent to contract execution.

The bonds shall be issued by a surety company authorized to do business in the State of Alabama and acceptable to the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA).

Failure of the successful Proposer to provide the required Performance and Payment Bonds within the time specified by BJCTA may result in forfeiture of the Proposal Bond, cancellation of the award, and award of the contract to the next lowest responsive and responsible proposal, or such other action as BJCTA deems to be in its best interest. When federal funds are involved, the bonds shall comply with applicable federal requirements, including 2 CFR Part 200 and FTA Circular 4220.1F/1G, and shall include all required federal contract provisions. The Performance Bond and Payment Bond are separate and distinct from the Proposal Bond and are not required to be submitted with the proposal.

1.7 Electronic Proposals

Because proposals are submitted electronically:

• A scanned copy of the Proposal Bond shall be uploaded with the proposal submission; and

• The original Proposal Bond must be delivered to BJCTA no later than the time of proposal opening, as instructed in this RFP.

1.8 Additional Documentation

Each Proposer, if successful, acknowledges and agrees to submit such additional documentation (e.g., insurance/bonds, etc.) promptly after an award pursuant to any notice provided by BJCTA and as required by the terms of this RFP and the Contract.

1.9 Restrictions on Communication

Proposers are prohibited from communicating with the Board of Directors of BJCTA and BJCTA staff regarding the RFP or Proposals from the time the RFP has been released until the time the contract has been awarded. These restrictions extend to "thank you" letters, phone calls, emails and any contact that results in direct or indirect discussion of the RFP and/or Proposal submitted by Proposers. Violation of this provision by Proposer and/or its agent may lead to disqualification of Proposer’s proposal from consideration. Exceptions to the restrictions on communication with BJCTA employees include:

Proposers may submit written questions concerning this RFP to the Procurement Department via PlanetBids, until Friday, October 23rd, 2026 at 3:00 PM (CST). Responses will be posted in the form of an Addendum to the RFP on BJCTA’s PlanetBids portal to all who registered on the proposers list. Proposers may provide responses to questions asked of them by the staff contact person after responses are received and opened.

It is the responsibility of each Proposer to obtain a copy of all addenda(s) issued for this procurement by monitoring BJCTA’s PlanetBids Vendor Portal. No Proposer may rely on any verbal response to any question concerning this procurement. All Proposers (and any representative thereof) are strictly prohibited from contacting any BJCTA employees (or third-party representatives or consultants of BJCTA) on any matter having to do with this procurement. All communications by any Proposer must be made with BJCTA’s contact person or any other BJCTA employees or representatives designated by the Director of Procurement.

1.10 Cone of Silence

To ensure a proper and fair evaluation, the BJCTA has established a Cone of Silence applicable to the Competitive Solicitation, including RFIs, RFPs, RFQs, and ITBs. The cone of silence is designed to protect the integrity of the procurement process by shielding it from undue influences. The cone of silence will be imposed on the Competitive Solicitation beginning on the date of the posting on BJCTA ’s website and ending with an award or decision prescribed in the BJCTA ’s Procurement Policy.

The cone of silence prohibits any communication regarding a specific RFI, RFP, RFQ, or ITB between:

a. A potential Proposer, including its representative(s) (which includes vendors, service providers, Proposers, lobbyists, and consultants), and BJCTA staff or BJCTA consultants engaged to assist the BJCTA on a specific RFP, RFQ, or ITB, except for communications with the BJCTA ’s procurement agent or other supporting procurement staff responsible for administering the procurement, provided the communication is strictly limited to procedural matters of the Competitive Solicitation.

b. A potential Proposer including its representative(s) (which includes vendors, service providers, Proposers, lobbyists, and consultants), and a Board member.

c. A potential Proposer including its representative(s) (which includes vendors, service providers, Proposers, lobbyists, and consultants.

d. Unless specifically provided otherwise in the applicable solicitation document, in addition to the exceptions set forth above, the cone of silence does not apply to:

e. Oral communications at the pre-proposal conference.

f. Oral communication during any duly noticed Board meeting.

g. Communications relating to protests made in accordance with this Procurement Policy.

Notice of the cone of silence requirements will be included in all Competitive Solicitation documents. The notice will include the name and email of the BJCTA ’s procurement agent to whom communications regarding procedural matters of the Competitive Solicitation can be made. The notice will also include a statement that any violation of the Cone of Silence by a Proposer and their representative(s) may void its response as well as any resulting contract awarded to them. Please contact: Rita L. Barren, Director of Procurement at rbarren@bjcta.org regarding procedural matters.

1.11 Proposal Submission Deadline and Opening

All responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) must be received by the BJCTA Procurement Department through BJCTA’s Vendor Portal (PlanetBids) no later than the deadline specified in the RFP schedule of events.

Proposals will not be publicly opened. Contents of proposals will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by applicable law until such time as an award recommendation is made.

All proposals will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in this RFP.

1.12 Ownership of Proposals

Each proposal submitted to BJCTA will become the property of BJCTA, without compensation to a Proposer, for BJCTA’s use, at BJCTA’s sole discretion. BJCTA is not liable to pay any cost incurred in the preparation of a Qualification or Proposal. BJCTA reserves the right to cancel the RFP or issue a subsequent RFP at any time during the solicitation process.

1.13 Price Proposal Evaluation

The BJCTA will evaluate price proposals for reasonableness, completeness, and realism as appropriate. Each Proposer’s cost will be reviewed in terms of the following which are equal in importance:

(1) Any offer which is materially unbalanced may be rejected. An unbalanced offer is one which is based on prices that are significantly overstated for some items and understated for other items.

(2) The BJCTA will compare the price proposals to the BJCTA’s independent cost estimate (ICE) and otherwise determine reasonableness by performing a price analysis if adequate competition exists. A cost analysis will be performed if adequate price competition does not exist, to ascertain whether the proposed price is fair and reasonable; and

(3) The Proposer shall provide certified cost or pricing data as requested by the BJCTA Procurement Department.

1.14 Proposal Evaluation Criteria

The following criteria will be used to evaluate and rank proposals submitted by responsible and responsive Proposers for the purpose of determining the competitive range, if applicable, and for making a contract award.

BJCTA will first review all proposals for responsiveness to the requirements of this RFP. Only those proposals deemed responsive will be evaluated and scored based on the criteria set forth below.

mailto:rbarren@bjcta.org

Any exceptions, conditions, or reservations to the requirements of this RFP must be clearly identified in the proposal. Such exceptions may be considered during the evaluation process and may affect the Proposer’s overall score or determination of responsiveness.

Technical Compliance & Design Quality (20%)

• Conformance to material specs (0.09” aluminum, coatings, durability)

• Compliance with ADA and Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

• Accuracy of signage dimensions, colors, and branding

• Quality of design submittals and prototype samples

• Consistency across signage types (standard, corridor, shelter)

Fabrication Quality & Durability (15%)

• UV-resistant, anti-graffiti coatings

• Resistance to fading, corrosion, and vandalism

• Quality assurance/quality control processes

• Strength of warranty (2-year workmanship, 5-year finish or better)

Installation Approach & Field Execution (15%)

• Methodology for system-wide rollout (~600 stops)

• Coordination with utility locating (811)

• Safe installation practices and traffic control

• Surface restoration quality (concrete repair, flush cuts, backfill)

• Minimization of disruption to riders and public

Project Management & Schedule (10%)

• Ability to meet completion requirements

• Detailed and realistic project schedule

• Phasing and sequencing strategy

• Risk mitigation and contingency planning

• Communication and reporting approach

Data Management & Deliverables (10%)

• GIS or Excel-based asset inventory quality

• Accuracy of installation logs and documentation

• Maintenance manuals and turnover materials

• Prototype review and approval process

• Readiness for future asset management integration

Cost & Value (10%)

• Total project cost and clarity of breakdown

• Cost per stop

• Lifecycle value and durability vs. replacement costs

• Inclusion of value-added services

Experience (5%)

• Experience with transit agencies or similar infrastructure projects

• Familiarity with ADA and MUTCD requirements

• Past work on signage, streetscape, or design-build projects

References & Past Performance (10%) A deeper, evidence-based look at how the contractor has actually performed.

• Quality of client references (especially transit agencies or municipalities)

• Demonstrated success on similar-scale projects

• Record of on-time and on-budget delivery

• Feedback on installation quality and durability over time

• Responsiveness to issues, warranty claims, and post-installation support

• Documented performance issues (if any) and how they were resolved

Innovation & Future-Readiness (5%)

• Ability to support future tech (QR codes, real-time info integration)

• Scalable and modular signage systems

• Optional wayfinding enhancements (maps, directional signage)

• Materials or methods that improve longevity or reduce maintenance

1.15 Rejection of Proposals; Cancellation of RFP; Waiver of Technicalities BJCTA reserves the right to reject any/or all proposals or to waive any technical defect in a proposal before or after proposal submission. BJCTA reserves the right to cancel the RFP or issue a subsequent RFP at any time during the solicitation process. Additionally, BJCTA may, by addendum, modify any provision or part of this RFP at any time prior to the proposal due date and time. The Proposer shall not rely on oral clarifications to the RFP unless they are confirmed, in writing, by BJCTA in an issued addendum. BJCTA also reserves the right to award based upon Proposer’s original submission without discussion.

1.16 Alabama Open Records Act

The Contractor acknowledges that the Recipient is subject to the Alabama Open Records Act, Ala.

Code § 36-12-40 et seq., which requires disclosure of public records upon request, unless exempted by law. The Contractor agrees to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information as permitted under federal law and regulations, including any proprietary or trade secret information, and to cooperate with the Recipient in responding to any public records requests. In the event that a request is made for records provided by the Contractor, the Recipient will notify the Contractor and allow reasonable time to seek a protective order or other legal remedy before releasing any information deemed confidential or proprietary. Nothing in this clause shall be construed to prohibit the Recipient from complying with the Alabama Open Records Act or any other applicable state or federal laws.

1.17 Protests

Any protest or objection to this RFP or the solicitation process related to this RFP must be submitted, in a timely manner, in accordance with the Protest Procedures set forth on BJCTA’s website at https://maxtransit.org/protest-of-procurement/.

1.18 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex

The Recipient agrees to comply with Federal prohibitions against discrimination on the basis of sex, including: (1) Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq., (2) U.S. DOT regulations, “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance,” 49 C.F.R. part 25, and (3) Federal transit law, specifically 49 U.S.C. § 5332, as stated in section A.

1.19 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age

The Recipient agrees to comply with Federal prohibitions against discrimination on the basis of age, including: (1) The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), 29 U.S.C. §§ 621 – 634, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, (2) U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (U.S. EEOC) regulations, “Age Discrimination in Employment Act,” 29 C.F.R. part 1625, which implements the ADEA, (3) The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 6101 et seq., which prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of age in the administration of programs or activities receiving Federal funds, (4) U.S. Health and Human Services regulations, “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance,” 45 C.F.R. part 90, which implements the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and (5) Federal transit law, specifically 49 U.S.C. § 5332, as stated in Section A.

1.20 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability

The Recipient agrees to comply with the following Federal prohibitions pertaining to discrimination against seniors or individuals with disabilities: (1) Federal laws, including: (a) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, 29 U.S.C. § 794, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the administration of federally funded programs or activities, (b) The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq., which requires that accessible facilities and services be made available to individuals with disabilities, 1 General. Titles I, II, and III of the ADA apply to FTA Recipients, but 2 Indian Tribes. While Titles II and III of the ADA apply to Indian Tribes, Title I of the ADA exempts Indian Tribes from the definition of “employer,” (c) The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 4151 et seq., which requires that buildings and public accommodations be accessible to individuals with disabilities, (d) Federal transit law, specifically 49 U.S.C. § 5332, which now includes disability as a prohibited basis for discrimination, and (e) Other applicable laws and amendments pertaining to access for elderly individuals or individuals with disabilities, (2) Federal regulations, including:

(a) U.S. DOT regulations, “Transportation Services for Individuals with Disabilities (ADA),” 49 C.F.R.

part 37, (b) U.S. DOT regulations, “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefiting from Federal Financial Assistance,” 49 C.F.R. part 27, (c) U.S. DOT regulations, “Transportation for Individuals with Disabilities: Passenger Vessels,” 49 C.F.R. part 39,

(d) Joint U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (U.S. ATBCB) and U.S.

DOT regulations, “Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Accessibility Specifications for Transportation Vehicles,” 36 C.F.R. part 1192 and 49 C.F.R. part 38, (e) U.S. DOJ regulations, “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in State and Local Government Services,” 28 C.F.R. part 35, (f) U.S. DOJ regulations, “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability by Public Accommodations and in https://maxtransit.org/protest-of-procurement/

Commercial Facilities,” 28 C.F.R. part 36, (g) U.S. EEOC, “Regulations to Implement the Equal Employment Provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act,” 29 C.F.R. part 1630, (h) U.S. Federal Communications Commission regulations, “Telecommunications Relay Services and Related Customer Premises Equipment for Persons with Disabilities,” 47 C.F.R. part 64, Subpart F, (i) U.S.

ATBCB regulations, “Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards,” 36 C.F.R.

part 1194, and (j) FTA regulations, “Transportation for Elderly and Handicapped Persons,” 49 C.F.R. part 609, and (3) Other applicable Federal civil rights and nondiscrimination guidance.

1.21 Drug or Alcohol Abuse - Confidentiality and Other Civil Rights Protections The Recipient agrees to comply with the confidentiality and civil rights protections of: (1) The Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972, as amended, 21 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq., (2) The Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 4541 et seq., and (3) The Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. §§ 290dd – 290dd-2.

1.22 Access to Services for People with Limited English Proficiency Except as the Federal Government determines otherwise in writing, the Recipient agrees to promote accessibility of public transportation services to people whose understanding of English is limited by following: 1) Executive Order No. 13166, “Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency,” August 11, 2000, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d-1 note, and (2) U.S. DOT Notice, “DOT Policy Guidance Concerning Recipients’ Responsibilities to Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Persons,” 70 Fed. Reg. 74087, December 14, 2005.

1.23 Other Nondiscrimination Laws

Except as the Federal Government determines otherwise in writing, the Recipient agrees to: (1) Comply with other applicable Federal nondiscrimination laws and regulations, and (2) Follow Federal guidance prohibiting discrimination.

1.24 Remedies

Remedies for failure to comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and Federal regulations may been forced as provided in those Federal laws or Federal regulations.

1.25 Tax Exemption

The Contractor recognizes that the BJCTA is exempt from the payment of Federal, State, and local taxes. The BJCTA will furnish the Contractor with the necessary tax-exempt certificates.

1.26 RFP Selection Process Timeline

The proposed schedule for submittal reviews and notification is as follows:

Proposed Scheduled Event Date

RFP Issued / Advertised through PlanetBids and applicable media Thursday, 10/08/2026

Pre-Proposal Conference Wednesday, 10/21/2026 / 10:00 am

Deadline for Written Questions / Requests for Clarification Friday, 10/29/2026 / 3:00 pm

BJCTA Responses / Addendum Posted to PlanetBids Thursday, 11/05/2026 / 5:00 pm

Proposal Submission Deadline through PlanetBids Thursday, 11/12/2026 / 2:00 pm

Anticipated Board Approval Thursday, 12/17/2026

SECTION 2: CONTENT OF PROPOSALS AND SUBMITTALS

2.1 General Content of Proposals

A Proposer must submit a complete proposal in response to this RFP in the format specified in this RFP.

2.2 Definitions for Technical Evaluation

Clarifications: Communications with a Proposer for the sole purpose of eliminating minor irregularities, informalities, or apparent clerical mistakes in the proposal. Unlike discussions, clarifications do not give the Proposer an opportunity to revise or modify its proposal, except to the extent that correction of apparent clerical mistakes results in revisions.

Discussions: Oral or written communications including negotiations between the BJCTA and a Proposer (other than clarifications) that involves information essential for determining the acceptability of the proposal or to cure identified defects in the proposal.

Deficiencies: Defects in the proposal which preclude acceptance. Involves any part of the bidder’s proposal which would not satisfy the BJCTA’s minimum requirements established in the solicitation. Including failures to meet specifications, submit information, or questionable technical or management approaches. Items disclosed during discussions are review in two categories: material-basis for rejection because further discussions would be meaningless;

curable – may be corrected by clarifications or discussions and brought into the competitive range.

Weakness: Includes ambiguities, lack of complete descriptions, errors in interpretation, and inadequate information, all of which are considered curable in discussions. An excessive number of clarifications may constitute a weakness.

Strengths: Elements of the proposal that exceed the minimum requirements of the solicitation and provide an identified benefit to BJCTA.

2.3 Technical Proposal

The Technical Proposal shall contain all information, documentation, and submittals required by this RFP or offered by the Respondent in support of its proposal. The proposal must be complete, organized, and presented in the sequence outlined below.

a. Title Page

The title page shall include the following information:

• RFP number and title

• Respondent’s legal name and address

• Name, title, telephone number, and email address of the authorized contact person(s)

• Date of proposal submission

b. Table of Contents

Provide a clear and detailed Table of Contents that identifies each section and corresponding page number. The Table of Contents must align with the format and requirements of this RFP.

c. Transmittal Letter

Include a signed Transmittal Letter on the Respondent’s letterhead that:

• Confirms the Respondent’s understanding of the work to be performed

• States the Respondent’s commitment to perform the work within the specified timeframe

• Highlights and demonstrate why the Respondent is best qualified to perform the work

d. Executive Summary

Provide an overview of the Respondent’s qualifications and a high-level description of the proposed approach or solution. At a minimum, the Executive Summary shall include:

• The complete legal name of the Respondent and each entity comprising the Respondent, if applicable

• The domicile (state of organization) and brief history of each entity

• The Respondent’s legal structure (e.g., corporation, partnership, LLC, joint venture)

• Name, title, address, phone number, and email of the primary contact

e. Response to Requirements

The Respondent must provide a detailed narrative describing how the proposed services will meet BJCTA’s requirements and project objectives. The response should demonstrate a clear understanding of the scope of work, methodology, and strategies for achieving BJCTA’s goals.

f. Organizational Structure and Key Personnel

The Respondent shall provide the following:

1. Organizational Chart: Illustrating the Respondent’s management structure and reporting relationships.

2. Resumes: For all key personnel identified in the organizational chart, including:

o Name and title o Professional background and relevant experience o Education and certifications o Current and past employment

3. Legal Form: Identify the legal form and domicile of the Respondent. If the Respondent is a partnership, joint venture, or affiliation, include organizational documents and a brief description of the rights and obligations of each participant.

4. Authority Statement: Identify the level of authority vested in each key individual to make decisions on behalf of the Respondent.

5. Authorized Contact: Provide the name, address, phone number, and email of the person authorized communicate on behalf of the Respondent.

6. Disclosure of Disputes: List any outstanding disputes or business relationships involving the Respondent and the following entities (if applicable):

o BJCTA o USDOT / Federal Transit Administration o Alabama Department of Transportation o City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, and surrounding municipalities listed in the RFP

Also, disclose any other disputes that may impact the Respondent’s ability to perform under this Contract.

g. Client References and Client List Respondents must provide:

1. Client References: At least three (3) written client reference letters or statements for similar demolition or construction projects, including project name, client name, and contact information.

2. Client List: A list of all the clients Respondent has worked with in the past five (5) years.

Note: By submitting a proposal, the Respondent authorizes BJCTA to contact any reference or client provided.

h. Experience and Qualifications

To allow BJCTA to evaluate the Respondent’s capabilities, provide the following information for the Respondent and, if applicable, each member of a joint venture or partnership:

• Client Projects: List of recent demolition projects completed within the last five (5) years.

• Scope of Services: Summary of services provided for each project.

• Project Schedule: Start and completion dates, including significant milestones. a simplified excel Gantt Chart is acceptable for this project.

• Team Composition: Roles and qualifications of key personnel involved.

• References: Contact information for client references familiar with the Respondent’s performance.

Note: For partnerships, joint ventures, or newly formed entities, minimum qualifications must be met by the entity or individuals owning and controlling a majority equity interest (51%).

i. Financial Information BJCTA must evaluate the Respondent’s financial capacity to perform this project. Respondents shall submit:

1. Audited Financial Statements for the past three (3) years (e.g., 2022, 2023, 2024), including:

o Balance Sheet o Income Statement o Statement of Cash Flows or Changes in Financial Position o If current year’s audits are unavailable, submit unaudited summary statements for the current year.

2. References:

o Contact information for two (2) commercial banking references.

o (Optional: two institutional partners, if required.)

3. Contingent Liabilities: Disclose any significant contingent liabilities, guaranteed loans, or other obligations that may impact the Respondent’s financial stability.

4. Confidentiality:

Any financial statements deemed proprietary should be clearly marked as Confidential – Proprietary Information. Failure to provide the required financial information may result in the proposal being deemed non-responsive.

2.4 Price Proposal

Each Respondent must complete and submit the Price Proposal Form (Attachment A) provided with this

RFP. Failure to submit the Price Proposal Form may, at BJCTA’s sole discretion, result in the Respondent being deemed non-responsive and/or non-responsible.

SECTION 3: SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

3.1 Personnel

The Proposer shall state that it has, or will secure at its own expense, all personnel required in responding to this RFP. Such personnel shall not be employees of or have any contractual relationship with the BJCTA. All the services required hereunder will be performed by or on behalf of Proposer. All personnel engaged in performing this RFP shall be fully qualified and shall be authorized, if applicable, under state and local law, to perform such services.

3.2 Familiarity

The submission of a proposal shall constitute an acknowledgment that the Proposer has thoroughly examined and is familiar with the RFP in every detail and agrees with all the conditions.

3.3 Restriction on Disclosure and Use of Data

The BJCTA shall provide all reasonable precautions to ensure that proprietary, technical, and pricing information remains within the review process. Proposers shall attach to any proprietary data submitted with the solicitation of the following legend:

a. This data furnished pursuant to this RFP shall not be disclosed outside the BJCTA, be duplicated, or used in whole or in part, for any purpose other than to evaluate the offer;

provided that, if a contract is awarded based on that offer, the BJCTA shall have the right to duplicate, use, and disclose this data, in any manner and for any purpose whatsoever.

b. This information does not limit the BJCTA's right to use information contained in this data if it is or has been obtained by the BJCTA from another independent legitimate source.

c. Except for the foregoing limitation, the BJCTA may duplicate, use, and disclose in any manner and for any purpose whatsoever and have others so do, all data furnished in response to this solicitation."

3.4 Employment Restriction Warranty

a. The Proposer warrants that it will not offer employment to any officer or employee of the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) who has been involved, directly or indirectly, in any matter of financial interest to the Proposer until at least one (1) year after the officer or employee has ceased involvement in our responsibility for the matter.

b. The Proposer further warrants that it will not employ any BJCTA officer or employee who has had direct responsibility for any matter of financial interest to the Proposer within the year prior to the retirement or termination of the officer or employee until at least one (1) full year after such officer or employee has left the employment of the BJCTA.

c. The one (1) year requirement described in this provision may be waived at the discretion of the BJCTA if the employee or former employee has been subject to a Reduction in Force; in such case, BJCTA will provide the Proposer with a letter to that effect.

d. If a waiver is granted, or if a former employee of the BJCTA is eventually hired, the Proposer shall be responsible for ensuring that the former employee is not directly involved in negotiating or otherwise dealing with BJCTA on any matter over which such employee had responsibility during his or her period of employment at BJCTA.

e. Should the Proposer fail to comply with paragraphs (a), (b), or (d) above, BJCTA shall have the right to terminate the contract and/or mark the Proposer non-responsive with a written notice.

3.5 Language and Currency

As regards this solicitation and the resultant contract:

a. All communications (oral, written, electronic, and otherwise including but, not limited to software coding) shall be in the English language.

b. All pricing shall be in United States dollars.

3.6 DBE Participation

No DBE goals or participation requirements apply to this project. However, all contractors must comply with applicable nondiscrimination requirements under 49 CFR Part 26.

3.7 Applicable Regulation

49 U.S.C. § 5323(j) and 49 CFR Part 661 require all iron, steel, and manufactured products to be produced in the United States unless a waiver is granted by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). BJCTA does not have authority to independently grant waivers.

3.8 Buy America Compliance

The Contractor agrees to comply with 49 U.S.C. § 5323(j) and 49 CFR Part 661.

All iron and steel products permanently incorporated into the project, including sign posts, mounting hardware, anchor bolts, and structural components, shall be produced in the United States. Production includes melting, refining, forming, rolling, and coating.

All manufactured products, including signage panels, shall have final assembly occurring in the United States.

The Contractor shall:

1. Provide Buy America certifications prior to installation

2. Provide mill certifications for steel products

3. Provide manufacturer certifications upon request

4. Maintain documentation for audit and inspection

5. Flow this requirement down to all subcontractors and suppliers

Materials installed in violation of Buy America requirements shall be rejected and replaced at the Contractor’s expense.

3.9 Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment Clause

Contractors who apply or proposal for an award of $100,000 or more shall file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any Federal agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.

Each tier shall also disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures shall be forwarded from tier to tier up to the recipient.

3.10 Utility Locations and Responsibility

The locations of existing underground and overhead utilities shown in the Contract Documents, if any, are provided for informational purposes only and are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete. BJCTA does not warrant or represent that all utilities are shown or that the locations indicated are exact.

The Contractor shall be solely responsible for identifying, locating, and protecting all underground and overhead utilities prior to commencing any excavation, drilling, or installation work.

The Contractor shall:

1. Contact Alabama 811 (Call Before You Dig) and all applicable utility owners prior to excavation, in accordance with state law.

2. Verify the location of all utilities in the field using appropriate detection methods.

3. Take all necessary precautions to avoid damage to utilities, including hand digging where required.

4. Immediately notify BJCTA and the utility owner if unknown utilities are encountered or conflicts arise.

5. Be responsible for all costs associated with damage to utilities caused by the Contractor’s operations.

6. Repair or arrange for repair of damaged utilities at no additional cost to BJCTA.

7. Coordinate installation activities with utility owners as required.

No additional compensation will be provided for delays or costs associated with utility location, verification, or protection that could have been reasonably anticipated.

3.11 Differing Site Conditions – Utility Conflicts

If the Contractor encounters utilities that differ materially from those reasonably anticipated, the Contractor shall immediately notify BJCTA in writing and suspend affected work until receiving direction. BJCTA will evaluate the conditions and determine appropriate action in accordance with the contract’s Differing Site Conditions provisions.

3.12 Contractor Damage Liability Clause

The Contractor shall be fully responsible for any damage to utilities resulting from its operations and shall indemnify and hold harmless BJCTA from any claims, damages, or costs arising from such damage.

3.13 Practical Signage-Specific Addition

Prior to drilling or excavating for sign post installation, the Contractor shall pothole or otherwise verify utility locations where conflicts are reasonably suspected.

EXHIBIT A: DETAILED SCOPE OF WORK (CORE SERVICES)

1.1 Project Purpose and Contracting Structure

The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) seeks a qualified general contractor to serve as the Prime Contractor for the systemwide replacement of bus stop sign assemblies and associated poles throughout the BJCTA fixed route service area. Each complete assembly typically consists of three separate panels mounted on one pole: Panel 1, the MAX Identification Flag; Panel 2, the Route and Stop Information Panel; and Panel 3, the Stop Identification and Digital Information Panel. The work is intended to improve stop identification, passenger information, accessibility, durability, and visual consistency in support of BJCTA’s modernization program and the 70 30 Route Redesign Plan.

The Prime Contractor shall provide a complete, turnkey project, including project management, field verification, design development, fabrication, delivery, removal, installation, concrete bus boarding and alighting pads where authorized, permitting, traffic control, utility coordination, surface restoration, quality control, documentation, and warranty services. The Prime Contractor shall engage and manage a qualified signage fabricator as a subcontractor unless the Prime Contractor is itself qualified and equipped to perform the fabrication work.

BJCTA will contract only with the Prime Contractor. The Prime Contractor remains fully responsible for the acts, omissions, schedule, safety, quality, payment, and contract compliance of the signage fabricator and every other subcontractor, supplier, and lower-tier entity. No subcontract creates a contractual relationship between BJCTA and a subcontractor

1.2 Scope Summary

• Verify each assigned bus stop location and existing field conditions before design finalization or construction.

• Develop the final three-panel sign assembly and site-specific installation details from BJCTA’s branding, content, technical requirements, and approved stop data.

• Fabricate all three panel types, decals or applied graphics, poles, and mounting hardware after BJCTA approval of shop drawings, proofs, and prototypes.

• Remove and lawfully dispose of existing signs, posts, foundations, and disturbed materials as directed.

• Install signs on new posts as directed

• Construct accessible concrete bus boarding and alighting pads at designated locations that do not currently have a compliant pad, including any required connection to the accessible route.

• Obtain and close all required municipal, county, ALDOT, utility, and other permits, approvals, and inspections.

• Provide complete GIS or Excel asset records, photographs, closeout documents, maintenance guidance, warranties, and correction of defective work.

1.3 Roles and Responsibilities

Party Minimum responsibilities

BJCTA Provide available stop inventory, route and stop content, branding files, designated locations, review comments, acceptance decisions, and access to BJCTA controlled property. Issue written authorizations for pad construction, changed conditions, and additional work.

Prime Contractor Single point of responsibility. Manage schedule, cost, quality, safety, permits, site verification, utility coordination, traffic control, fabrication subcontract, installers, concrete subcontractors, logistics, public protection, recordkeeping, correction, and closeout.

Signage Fabricator Under the Prime Contractor, prepare coordinated designs and production submittals for the complete three-panel assembly; produce a prototype of each panel type and an assembled mockup when requested; furnish compliant panels, graphics, poles, and hardware;

package and label products by stop; and support quality control and warranty obligations.

Installation and concrete subcontractors

Under the Prime Contractor, perform removal, excavation, foundations, post and sign installation, concrete pad work, restoration, traffic control, and inspection support using properly licensed and qualified personnel.

1.4 Prime Contractor Management Requirements

• Designate one Project Manager/Point of Contact authorized to coordinate and bind the Prime Contractor on routine project matters and one field superintendent responsible for daily site operations.

• Submit a subcontracting plan identifying the signage fabricator, installer, concrete contractor, traffic control provider, licensed design professionals, and all lower tier entities.