RFQ 2024-085, Waco MPO Place Based Safety and Demonstration Projects

The City of Waco Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ 2024-085) for Place Based Safety and Demonstration Projects across McLennan County, Texas. The procurement seeks a qualified consulting firm to manage the planning, execution, and evaluation of six demonstration projects focused on improving vulnerable road user (VRU) safety through low-cost, high-impact interventions. Project locations include Baylor Campus/La Salle Avenue, Valley Mills Drive, Downtown Waco, Loop 340 in Bellmead, Loop 340/US 77 in Robinson, and Hewitt Drive. The selected consultant will implement FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures and placemaking strategies to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, with a particular focus on disadvantaged areas. The project timeline requires planning and design to be completed within 3-6 months of contract execution, followed by project installation within 6-9 months, with a final report due by June 2027. Proposals will be evaluated using a 100-point system: 40 points for project understanding and approach, 30 points for expertise and experience, 20 points for schedule and capacity, and 10 points for client satisfaction. A pre-submittal meeting was held on November 21, 2024, at 10:00 AM CT via Zoom, with proposals due December 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM CT.

The RFQ does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are listed, and there are no explicit requirements for existing infrastructure or technology integration. While a specific budget is not disclosed, the project is funded through a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program, which requires quarterly performance and financial reporting to the Federal Highway Administration. Contracts exceeding $50,000 will require City Council approval. The City reserves the right to reject any submissions and will not reimburse vendors for proposal preparation costs. The selected consultant will be expected to manage sub-consultants and coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including TxDOT Waco District and relevant cities. Submissions are accepted electronically through the Bonfire portal or in paper format, with the understanding that the consultant will self-perform or subcontract the demonstration project installations.