BAA Research Initiatives In Support of Rail Safety -Research with Universities

The Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration published a Special Notice on September 25, 2019 soliciting research proposals from universities in support of rail safety initiatives. The Notice seeks applied technology research proposals to advance priorities such as grade crossing safety, positive train control technologies, autonomous rail inspection systems, and rolling stock defect detection.

The Broad Agency Announcement seeks to fund applied technology research projects through multiple awards totaling approximately $2 million. Offerors must submit a concept paper by November 26, 2019 for consideration to submit a full proposal, which are required to include a technical approach, project management plan, and itemized budget not exceeding $500,000 per award. Eligible offerors are universities conducting research aligned with the objectives described. Selection is anticipated in early 2023 and will consider responsiveness to priorities, technical merit, cost realism, and experience. Projects are expected to be completed between one to three years to advance the Federal Railroad Administration's rail safety goals.