Artificial Intelligence Transportation Systems Management and Operations Data initiative

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Intelligent Transportation System Joint Program Office are conducting market research to identify small businesses, academic institutions, and other organizations capable of developing an Artificial Intelligence Transportation Systems Management and Operations (AI TSMO) Data initiative. The primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Transportation Systems Management and Operations data gaps and develop recommendations for AI-enabled TSMO applications, with work to be performed at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia. Qualified respondents must demonstrate experience working with TSMO datasets from public agencies, AI/machine learning model development and evaluation, data preparation and management for AI training, project management with diverse stakeholders, and participation in multi-stakeholder transportation initiatives. Responses must be submitted as white papers not exceeding 10 single-sided pages in PDF or Word format with 12-point font and 1-inch margins to Vivian.Riboli@dot.gov and Amalia.Rodezno@dot.gov by February 20, 2026, at noon ET. White papers must include a cover page with company name, primary point of contact information, UEI/Cage Code, NAICS Code(s), business size, socio-economic category, and a comprehensive capabilities statement demonstrating relevant experience, previous work examples, key personnel qualifications, and available resources.

This is a sources sought notice for market research purposes only and does not commit the government to any contract action; respondents will not be compensated for their submissions. The effort is structured in two phases over 12 months, with Phase One (six months) focused on screening AI models and data for at least two TSMO use cases and identifying data readiness gaps, and Phase Two (six months) dedicated to developing a prototype addressing high-priority gaps, with an optional Phase Three (six months) for further development and adoption support. No set-aside designations apply to this notice, and no incumbent contractors or specific award values are identified in the sources sought notice. This market research initiative does not preclude potential respondents from participating in any future Request for Proposals or Quotations that may be issued following the conclusion of this information-gathering phase. Organizations interested in demonstrating their capabilities are encouraged to respond promptly to meet the February 20, 2026 deadline.