Fixed Route Scheduling Services

Metro Regional Transit Authority (Metro RTA), located in Akron, Summit County, Ohio, is soliciting proposals for comprehensive fixed route scheduling services for its transit network. The procurement seeks a contractor to provide expert transit scheduling, optimization, training, and technical support specifically for Metro RTA's fixed-route bus system, which currently utilizes the GIRO HASTUS scheduling platform. Required services include runtime and layover analysis, cycle time analysis, timetabling, vehicle blocking, crew scheduling, runcutting, and the capability to deliver complete schedules and run cuts. The contractor must demonstrate expertise in producing schedules that improve service reliability, on-time performance, and operational efficiency while supporting operator work-life balance. Metro RTA anticipates awarding a three-year professional services contract with two potential one-year renewal options. The proposal submission deadline is February 26, 2026, before 7:00 a.m., with questions accepted until February 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Evaluation will occur in two phases, with 66.5% of scoring focused on project team qualifications, project management approach, and demonstrated experience, and the remaining 33.5% dedicated to pricing proposals.

The procurement requires proposers to have a minimum of three years of experience performing similar services, with extensive GIRO HASTUS and CrewOpt experience, and proven capabilities in delivering full transit schedules for mid-to-large fixed-route bus systems. The contract will be funded through Federal Transit Administration (FTA) resources, mandating compliance with federal regulations including civil rights requirements, DBE participation guidelines, and labor standards. Proposers must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability insurance of $1,000,000 and workers' compensation coverage. While no specific DBE goals were explicitly stated, contractors must submit DBE attestations as part of their proposal package. The estimated contract value is $126,745, structured with task-based authorizations utilizing both fixed-price and time-and-expense work orders. No incumbent vendor was definitively identified, though the procurement suggests a need for specialized expertise in transit scheduling software and operational optimization.