RFI 77-18 Connectivity and Bus Infrastructure

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Connectivity and Bus Infrastructure, designated as RFI 77-18. This RFI seeks proposals and best practices from service providers to assist in future procurements related to connectivity deployment, such as fiber, small cells, WiFi, and 5G, at bus stops, shelters, stations, and vehicles. The MBTA is also interested in exploring the use of sensing technologies to improve service and rider experience, as well as bus amenities and real-time information panels to enhance the rider experience. Respondents are asked to provide information on potential revenue opportunities, business models to pay for construction and maintenance, and suggestions on procurement strategies. They are also asked to identify what information on the current technical or built environment they would need to competitively bid on future contracts. The RFI includes details on an optional bid conference scheduled for July 19, 2018, the deadline for submitting questions on July 23, 2018, and the response deadline of August 15, 2018.

The RFI does not include any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. The provided documents do not mention any incumbent vendors or current contractors, nor do they provide any information on existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration. The RFI also does not list any award values or budget ranges, as this is an exploratory process to gather information for future procurements.