Accessible Fare Collection System Innovation

The contract seeks the development and prototyping of an innovative fare payment system designed to be fully accessible to riders with disabilities, incorporating tactile interfaces for physical interaction, audible audio feedback for visual impairments, and seamless mobile integration to support digital payments through smartphones or personal devices. The focus is on creating a user-centered solution that ensures equal access and independent use across all stages of fare transaction, from selecting a payment method to confirming transaction success, with emphasis on intuitiveness, reliability, and compliance with accessibility standards. The project is issued as a subcontract under the Federal Transit Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation, categorized under NAICS code 518210 for data processing and related services. Proposals must be submitted by September 28, 2026, with the solicitation posted on July 29, 2026. While no set-aside provisions or specific geographic performance location are designated, the system must be scalable and compatible with existing transit infrastructure nationwide. The ultimate goal is to deliver a functional prototype ready for evaluation and potential deployment in public transportation networks to enhance rider inclusion and operational efficiency.