RIDOT: Open Enrollement-Research Institutions Research and Innovation Program

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is conducting an open enrollment pre-qualification process under solicitation OEV26006103 to identify research institutions, expert consultants, and researchers for its Research and Innovation Program. This program, aligned with the State’s Planning and Research (SPR) Subpart B, focuses on applied research and the implementation of emerging technologies to solve practical, on-the-ground transportation challenges. The pre-qualification is a two-phase process where entities are first evaluated on a pass/fail basis regarding their credentials and experience, followed by task order assignments for specific projects. Pre-qualified status is effective for three years, with a possible extension up to five years. To qualify, respondents must demonstrate a track record of completing at least three similar projects within the last five years for entities such as the NCHRP, TCRP, NSF, or other State DOTs. Principal Investigators are required to have at least three years of relevant experience in their specific area of expertise. Submissions must include an organizational chart, samples of previous work, a current workload listing, and a detailed research plan for specific task orders. The process requires strict adherence to legal and ethical standards, including the submission of bidder attestations regarding conflicts of interest, certifications against debarment and suspension, and disclosures of lobbying activities. The program emphasizes a wide range of research focus areas, including asset management, data systems, mobility, safety, and freight. Compliance with federal and state regulations is mandatory, specifically regarding Affirmative Action, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and non-discrimination in federally-assisted programs. While sample project budgets are provided in the solicitation for reference, actual pricing and scopes of work will be established through individual task orders. Vendors with active contracts or those already approved do not need to re-apply.