A&E Services for Fire Suppression System & Fire Alarm

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Cincinnati Metro, is soliciting qualifications for architectural and engineering services specifically related to upgrading its fire suppression and fire alarm systems at its Queensgate Maintenance Garage. The contract focuses on designing and supporting the installation of a passive mist fire suppression system tailored for the electric bus storage and maintenance areas, designed to address fire hazards related to lithium-ion batteries in the zero-emission bus fleet. The work includes schematic and construction plans, coordination with SORTA on project schedules, engineering evaluations, and compliance with relevant NFPA standards. The scope explicitly excludes structural fireproofing and electrical supply upgrades, focusing primarily on fire suppression, alarm integration, and system controls such as automatic HVAC and exhaust fan shutdowns during fire events. Deliverables also include cost estimates by licensed professionals, QA/QC documentation, and a detailed schedule, with a period of performance suggested around 60 calendar days from notice to proceed for the design component. The solicitation is categorized as a Request for Qualifications and proposals must be submitted electronically by January 7, 2026. Evaluation criteria heavily weight staff competence and availability (each 30%), followed by project approach (25%), emphasizing technical expertise and understanding of SORTA’s specific needs through a best-value trade-off process rather than lowest price acceptance. Key special requirements include mandatory submission of key personnel resumes, strict subcontractor approval rights held by SORTA, and adherence to various regulatory compliances such as ADA, environmental and energy conservation standards. Reporting and certification requirements involve verification of small business status, inclusion of XBE certifications, and federal compliance clauses. Contract administration mandates monthly invoicing with comprehensive documentation to SORTA’s accounts payable office in Cincinnati. Final inspection, acceptance, and overall contract oversight reside with SORTA at the Queensgate facility. The contract does not specify pricing or firm fixed-price terms as it is in a solicitation stage, with all pricing provided through proposer submissions pending award decisions.