Truck Parking Availability Information System

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is issuing Request for Proposal (RFP) MDT-RFP-2024-1779R for a Truck Parking Availability Information System (TPAIS), seeking to deploy truck parking detection systems and wireless communication technologies. The initial implementation will focus on the Columbus Westbound and Homestake Eastbound rest areas, with the goal of informing truck drivers about available parking through MDT's 511 map and dynamic message signs. Key deliverables include a comprehensive data exchange system that adheres to the MAASTO (Mid-America Association of State Transportation Officials) Partnership's data specification, which involves creating dynamic public feeds, static public feeds, and archive-only data feeds. Bidders must complete mandatory requirements such as providing company details, addressing confidential information, and certifying compliance with the Equal Pay for Montana Women executive order. The solicitation opens on March 1, 2024, at 12:00 AM MST and closes on April 17, 2024, at 2:00 PM MDT, with evaluation criteria encompassing offeror qualifications, service provision, and client references. Proposal submissions must be sealed until the closing time, and the contract will be awarded in US Dollars with payment terms of 0% 0, Net 30.

The RFP does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises, though it does emphasize non-discrimination requirements. The technical environment for this project involves a Microsoft-based ecosystem with Windows 10/11 desktops, an MPLS network, and existing infrastructure that includes Oracle 19c databases, SQL Server versions 2016-2019, and Microsoft IIS 10 web servers. While no incumbent vendors are specifically mentioned, the project will require integration with existing MDT network infrastructure, which supports approximately 1,200 VPN-enabled endpoints and uses Active Directory for authentication. The RFP offers a potential 5% bonus points for companies certifying compliance with the Equal Pay for Montana Women executive order, suggesting a preference for companies demonstrating commitment to workplace equity. Although a specific budget range is not disclosed, the project involves implementing truck parking detection systems at multiple rest areas, with potential for expansion as funding becomes available, indicating a scalable and potentially significant investment in transportation technology infrastructure.