DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) PROGRAM CONSULTING SERVICES

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) is soliciting DBE Program Consulting Services under solicitation number G3259.0-27, with a response deadline of August 18, 2026. The contract, intended to be awarded as a firm-fixed price agreement, seeks a consultant to provide expertise in administering and supporting the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program, with performance limited to California. The scope of work is performance-based and references Exhibit A for detailed technical specifications, though the full exhibit is not included in the solicitation materials. Proposers must demonstrate at least three years of experience providing similar services to public transit agencies, hold necessary insurance coverage including commercial general liability, cyber security, pollution liability, and flood insurance, and submit documentation verifying their status as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise or other applicable socioeconomic categories through the MTS DBE Program Information Form. All offerors are required to provide a Unique Entity ID (UEI) and maintain compliance with federal cost principles and GAAP accounting standards. The evaluation process uses a best-value trade-off approach, allocating 30 percent weight to qualifications, staffing, and references, and another 30 percent to cost and price reasonableness, with additional emphasis on a detailed work plan and technical approach. Proposals must include one-page resumes for all key personnel, an organizational chart if the team exceeds two individuals, and evidence of past similar engagements. Subcontractors are bound by the same terms and conditions as the prime contractor, who assumes full responsibility for their performance. The contractor must operate as an independent entity, managing all employment, tax, and labor law obligations for its staff. Insurance policies must name MTS as an additional insured, with advance notice required for any material changes or cancellations. Proposals may be subject to public disclosure under the California Public Records Act, though trade secrets may be exempt if properly marked. While the contract spans a five-year base period from November 1, 2026, to October 31, 2031, no dollar amounts are specified in the solicitation; pricing is to be submitted by offerors for two labor categories—DBE Compliance Manager and Senior DBE Compliance Analyst—on an hourly rate basis with no fixed quantities or ceilings provided. Final inspection and acceptance occur at the project’s final destination, and all deliverables must comply with MTS-specified quality standards and applicable regulatory frameworks including CARB regulations and internal MTS policies.