Digital E-Paper Real-Time Information Signs

Intercity Transit, located in Thurston County, Washington, is conducting a Request for Proposals (RFP) #2339 for digital e-paper real-time information signs (RTIS) to enhance passenger communication across its transit infrastructure. The procurement seeks qualified vendors to supply, program, and integrate new digital e-paper displays at various transit locations, including transit centers, park-and-rides, high-capacity bus stops, and local bus stops. Key deliverables include multiple sizes of e-paper signs (13", 23", 28", 32", and 42"), solar power options, content management system (CMS) integration, and real-time transit information display capabilities. The primary objectives include improving customer accessibility to transit information, streamlining communication, and implementing secure, maintainable equipment with API and GTFS integration. The RFP was released on November 11, 2024, with a pre-proposal meeting scheduled for December 2, 2024, and proposals due on January 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM PT. Vendor qualifications include technical capabilities for hardware installation, software integration, and ability to meet detailed specifications for display functionality, connectivity, and cybersecurity requirements.

The procurement includes set-aside provisions emphasizing maximum utilization of minority, women, and disadvantaged business enterprises, as well as small businesses. The initial contract term is five years, with an option to extend for an additional five-year term, and potential funding sources include local, state, and federal funds. While specific budget ranges are not disclosed, the project involves a comprehensive deployment plan for the Olympia Transit Center pilot phase, which includes 2 13" signs, 28 28" signs, 3 32" signs, and 2 42" signs. Existing infrastructure requirements include integration with multiple transit system data feeds, including Intercity Transit, Mason Transit, Grays Harbor Transit, Lewis County Transit, Greyhound, and FlixBus. The content management system must be a cloud-based SaaS solution with specific system availability requirements, and cellular connectivity is preferred through Verizon. Vendors will be evaluated based on their ability to meet technical specifications, provide comprehensive solutions, and offer competitive pricing across equipment, integration, testing, training, and optional warranty/maintenance components.