Ferry Transit Services

The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is soliciting proposals under RFP 2026-033 for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of ferry transit services on the Mississippi River. The selected contractor will manage passenger-only routes from Canal Street to Algiers Point and vehicular/passenger routes from Chalmette to Lower Algiers, serving Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard Parishes. Responsibilities include fare collection, queue management, asset maintenance, and the implementation of a transition plan to ensure continuous safe operation. The contract has an initial term of five years, with the RTA reserving the right to extend for two additional one-year terms. Proposals are due by October 27, 2026, via the Procureware portal. The award will be based on a weighted score of 90% for technical qualifications and 10% for price, with a strict price ceiling of 525 dollars per loaded hourly rate. Technical evaluation focuses on firm qualifications, staff expertise, technical approach, and a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation plan. Key personnel must possess at least five years of waterborne transportation management experience. Mandatory requirements include comprehensive insurance coverage, adherence to U.S. Coast Guard and FTA drug and alcohol policies, and compliance with federal non-discrimination and accessibility laws. Compensation is structured as a monthly payment based on actual service hours, indirect costs, and a fixed fee.