IFB 115-26 Transit Signal Priority Project

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is requesting bids on the Union Square Transit Signal Priority Project in Somerville under IFB 115-26, with bids due August 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST via COMMBUYS and a pre-bid conference scheduled for August 17 at 11:00 AM EST.

The scope encompasses installation and maintenance of transit signal priority (TSP) equipment, video detection systems, Advanced Transportation Controllers (ATC), and signal timing modifications at three signalized intersections: Somerville Avenue and Washington Street at Webster Avenue; Somerville Avenue at Prospect Street; and Webster Avenue at Prospect Street. The project serves five bus routes (Routes 85, 87, 91, 109, and CT2) and trolley service. TSP implementation uses green-extension and early-green strategies to reduce transit wait times, with signal timing plans for morning peak (6:00 AM–10:00 AM), evening peak (3:00 PM–7:00 PM), and free-operation periods. All work must comply with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, MassDOT Standard Specifications, and the MBTA Next Generation of Transit Signal Priority and Signal Performance Measures Technical Specification dated June 2024. Controllers must meet NEMA TS2-2016 standards and NTCIP protocols with high-resolution data logging. The scope also includes video detection processor and 360-degree and advanced barrel camera sensors, colored surface treatments, traffic sign removal and relocation, and conduit and pull box work. Deliverables include shop drawings within 30 days of execution, manufacturer certificates of compliance, wiring diagrams, as-built electronic configuration files, operation and maintenance manuals, and end-user training prior to final acceptance testing.

Payment is structured as lump-sum bid items with a firm-fixed-price basis inclusive of freight, taxes, and delivery. The TSP System includes an initial 3-year service period with optional renewal periods up to four years, renewable up to three times, for a maximum 15-year total term. Video detection system hardware carries a minimum one-year transferable manufacturer warranty. The contract requires prevailing wage compliance, Right of Way safety training for work within 50 feet of rail transit lines, Commercial General Liability Insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $1 million aggregate, Automobile Liability Insurance of $1 million combined single limits, and Workers' Compensation Insurance with $1 million per-accident limits and waiver of subrogation. The MBTA must be named as additional insured on all policies. Evaluation is on a lowest-priced responsive bid and responsible bidder basis, with an acceptance period of minimum 120 calendar days from bid due date. The MBTA reserves the right to reject any or all bids, cancel at any time prior to execution, request best and final offers, and modify the process at its sole discretion. No performance guarantee or liquidated damages are required.