P-25-013 Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C) Phase III - Neighborhood Extensions Preliminary Design and Environmental (PD&E) Study

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is seeking qualified design firms to conduct the Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C) Phase III - Neighborhood Extensions Preliminary Design and Environmental (PD&E) Study in Duval County, Florida. This procurement, referenced as RFP No. P-25-013, aims to expand the existing Skyway Automated People Mover service using fully electric, autonomous vehicles to serve key destinations on the periphery of Downtown Jacksonville, with a specific focus on connecting disadvantaged communities. The project requires comprehensive planning, environmental review documentation, and management support for transit infrastructure development. Proposers must submit their qualifications and technical proposals by February 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm ET, with a two-year contract term and no renewal options. The evaluation process is structured across four phases: minimum criteria (pass/fail), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) compliance, qualification evaluation, and technical evaluation, with a total possible score of 100 points (40 points for qualifications and 60 points for technical proposal). JTA will create a shortlist of top-ranked firms achieving a minimum score of 30, with the contract to be awarded on a "best value" basis.

The solicitation includes a mandatory 30% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal, requiring proposers to either achieve this goal or demonstrate good faith efforts. Firms must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including commercial general liability, automobile liability, professional liability, and excess liability insurance with specific minimum coverage limits. The project is funded through competitive negotiation and aligns with federal transit administration guidelines, as evidenced by the attached FTA Third-Party Clauses document, which outlines extensive regulatory compliance requirements. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the project represents a significant investment in sustainable and equitable transportation infrastructure, targeting historically underserved neighborhoods through innovative transit solutions. The procurement is open to design and consulting firms with expertise in transportation planning, environmental review, and autonomous transit system development, with a strong emphasis on social equity and technological innovation in urban mobility.