2026 Comprehensive Operational Analysis 10% SBE Goal

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) in Denver, Colorado is seeking a consultant to conduct a comprehensive 2026 Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) through RFP 125DO007. The 18-month project will analyze RTD's entire transit service area, focusing on current and projected boardings, performance metrics, customer demand, staffing levels, land use, population growth, transit-oriented developments, employment centers, travel patterns, financial resources, and operational constraints. Key deliverables include multiple reports and presentations covering system assessment, market research, service improvement strategies, transit network updates, and a Title VI Service Equity Analysis. The procurement requires a consultant with expertise in comprehensive operational assessments, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to interact with RTD's Board of Directors, elected officials, staff, local jurisdictions, and transit advocacy organizations. Evaluation criteria will be based on a 100-point scale: 35 points for project approach, 35 points for past relevant experience, 20 points for staff qualifications, and 10 points for cost. Critical dates include a pre-proposal briefing on November 6, 2025, at 10:00 am, proposal submissions due by December 3, 2025, at 12:00 am, and anticipated contract award by December 31, 2025.

The procurement includes a mandatory 10% Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation goal, requiring proposers to demonstrate good faith efforts to meet this requirement. The contract will be a fixed-price agreement with a period of performance from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the contract requires extensive compliance measures, including maintaining various insurance policies, conducting criminal background checks for personnel, and obtaining RTD access badges. The total potential contract value is approximately $14,662, with the possibility of task-based engagement across multiple personnel categories including Principal/Technical Lead, Project Manager, Transportation Planners, Environmental Planners, and administrative support roles. All project documents and websites must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards, with translation services available in Spanish and potentially other languages. The contractor must also accommodate individuals with disabilities and ensure comprehensive stakeholder engagement throughout the project's duration.