RFI 49-22 Ultra-wideband (UWB)

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking information on ultra-wideband (UWB) technology solutions that could be used to provide wayfinding assistance for MBTA transit riders who are blind or have low vision. The MBTA is exploring the use of UWB technology to help these riders confidently and reliably locate their bus stops, as existing GPS-based solutions have limitations in the "last 30 feet" of the journey. The RFI is seeking information on commercially available UWB anchor solutions that can reliably interoperate with multiple UWB-enabled smartphones and be fully compatible with both Apple and Android UWB developer kits. The anchor devices must meet technical specifications around semiconductor, ingress protection, power, and latency. Responses to this RFI are due on April 25, 2022 by 3:00 PM EST.

The RFI does not include any details on set-aside designations, restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, or listed incumbent vendors or current contractors. Similarly, there are no details provided on award values, budget ranges, or existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration. The RFI is focused solely on gathering technical information about UWB solutions that could potentially be used in a future project or procurement by the MBTA to enhance wayfinding capabilities for visually impaired transit riders.