Broad Agency Announcement: Research to Support FHWA’s Office of Infrastructure Research and Development

The Federal Highway Administration Office of Infrastructure Research and Development has issued Broad Agency Announcement 693JJ3-23-BAA-0002 to solicit innovative research and technology development aimed at improving the design, construction, and evaluation of United States highway infrastructure. The program focuses on enhancing safety, durability, efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency, with specific research topics including advanced digital construction, transportation resilience, and pavement and bridge management. This unrestricted solicitation is open to any responsible source, and while no specific set-asides exist, the agency encourages submissions from small businesses, minority institutions, and historically black colleges and universities. The procurement follows a two-phase process where offerors must first submit a project concept paper; if selected, they will be invited to submit a formal proposal consisting of a technical volume and a cost/pricing volume. Awards are based on a best-value determination integrating technical capability and price. Key requirements include registration in the System for Award Management, adherence to Section 508 accessibility standards, and compliance with FHWA InfoMaterials dataset management guidelines. Deliverables are subject to rigorous technical, publication, and legal reviews. The government may utilize various instruments for award, including contracts or assistance agreements, and requires a detailed subcontracting plan for any prime contractors.