Sole Source with Rhythm Engineering for In|Sync annual Renewal and repairs/replacements of proprietary hardware

Pinellas County is pursuing a non-competitive (sole source) procurement for the In|Sync adaptive traffic control system through Notice #23-0821-N, focusing on annual software support, services, repair, and replacement hardware. The procurement specifically covers technical support for 112 intersections, with a 12-month initial contract term and potential for three to five additional 12-month extensions. The intelligent transportation system utilizes artificial intelligence to detect and quantify vehicle presence, enabling traffic signals to dynamically adapt to actual traffic demand. Required deliverables include comprehensive technical support, hardware maintenance, and potential replacements of system components such as cameras, processors, enclosures, fans, and filters. Contractors must submit technical responses through OpenGov by Friday, July 28, 2023, at 9:31 AM, with a question submission deadline of August 4, 2023, at 3:00 PM. The evaluation will focus on vendors' ability to demonstrate technical competence and meet the specialized requirements of the proprietary In|Sync system. The procurement is being conducted by the Pinellas County Public Works Department, with Rickey Houston serving as the Procurement Analyst Coordinator.

The procurement appears to be exclusively with Rhythm Engineering, the proprietary technology provider, with no explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned in the documentation. The non-competitive procurement method is justified by the unique technological nature of the In|Sync system, which requires specialized annual software renewal and hardware maintenance that cannot be easily replicated by alternative vendors. While specific budget or award values are not explicitly stated, the scope encompasses technical support for 112 intersections and potential hardware replacements. The system represents an existing technological infrastructure that requires continuous, specialized maintenance and support. No information is provided about incumbent vendors beyond Rhythm Engineering, and the procurement appears focused on maintaining and supporting the current technological ecosystem rather than introducing new competitive alternatives.