MBTA RFI Number: 131-22: Transit Bus Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking information and samples from Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) manufacturers. The purpose of the RFI is to obtain best-practice information to support the MBTA's procurement of AVAS sound generation systems for its hybrid and battery electric bus fleet, determine whether existing AVAS designs are available that could be readily used, identify potentially interested bidders, and identify key criteria that should be considered to avoid eliminating interested bidders. The RFI requests manufacturers to provide detailed product information and respond to technical and commercial questions. Responses are due by Friday, September 16, 2022 at 4:00pm via the COMMBUYS procurement platform, and the MBTA may invite selected respondents to meet with the evaluation team to discuss their responses in greater detail. The RFI does not provide specific pricing or funding information, and the MBTA will not reimburse organizations for any costs associated with responding.

The RFI does not mention any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. It also does not list any incumbent vendors or current contractors, nor does it provide any information about existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration. The RFI also does not include any possible award values or budget ranges.