RIDOT: Open Enrollement-Research Institutions Research and Innovation Program

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has issued an Open Enrollment Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to establish a qualified vendor list for research institutions under its Research & Innovation Program. The procurement seeks proposals from research institutions to advance applied research, implement emerging technologies, and produce findings that enhance departmental operations, with a specific focus on addressing transportation challenges faced by RIDOT and state transportation partners. Proposals must be submitted electronically through Ocean State Procures between November 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST and September 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM EDT, with vendor questions accepted through August 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM EDT. Qualifying vendors must demonstrate capabilities in transportation research, technological innovation, and ability to provide comprehensive solutions to operational challenges. The State reserves the right to make one or multiple awards or reject all bids at its discretion. Evaluation will likely focus on the vendor's research capabilities, technological expertise, and potential to deliver meaningful improvements to transportation infrastructure and operations.

The solicitation includes specific requirements for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation, with vendors required to submit an MBE Participation Acknowledgment Form. Vendors must carry specific insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 in general liability, $100,000 in workers' compensation, and $1,000,000 in automobile liability. Professional services requirements include submission of financial review reports or audited financials, SAM.gov registration, and Professional Engineer registration for applicable firms. Vendors will be subject to a 1% contract administrative fee on all purchase orders. Current approved vendors are not required to resubmit proposals, and the contract term will extend from the award date through the duration of individual projects. While no specific contract value is mentioned, pricing will be determined through individual mini-bid quotes for specific projects, with no guaranteed minimum purchasing activity. Vendors must comply with federal cost principles and accounting standards, and submit additional documentation including Anti-Collusion, Debarment Certification, Conflicts Disclosure, and Lobbying forms.