Transit operations and maintenance services

The Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) and Gwinnett County are jointly issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for comprehensive Transit System Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Services, seeking a qualified contractor to manage transit operations for multiple service types. The procurement covers ATL's Xpress commuter bus service and Gwinnett County's local fixed route, microtransit, and paratransit services, encompassing 104 daily commuter bus trips, 10 local fixed routes, 3 microtransit zones, and complementary paratransit services. The contract will span three years with potential two one-year renewal options, with an anticipated service start date of July 1, 2026. The total fleet comprises 143 revenue vehicles, including 95 for ATL (10 of which are electric buses) and 48 transit buses for Gwinnett County. The evaluation process will utilize a best-value selection method, with technical proposals weighted at 80% and price proposals at 20%. Key procurement dates include a virtual pre-bid meeting on September 30, 2025, technical and price proposal submissions due on November 19, 2025, an anticipated Notice of Intent to Award on December 19, 2025, and final contract award in January/February 2026.

The solicitation includes a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal of 6.375% for ATL and 6.71% for Gwinnett County, encouraging participation from small and minority-owned businesses. The contract is partially funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the Federal Transit Administration, which will require compliance with federal transit regulations. The selected contractor will be responsible for all aspects of transit operations, including staffing, maintenance, safety compliance, technology management, reporting, and adherence to federal and state regulations. Contractors will operate from a shared North Facility, with cost allocations based on a 30% (ATL) and 70% (Gwinnett County) split. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the services and the extensive fleet suggest a significant contract value. The procurement requires extensive documentation, including safety plans, risk management protocols, performance reporting, and integration with existing maintenance management information systems, indicating a complex and comprehensive service requirement.