Oct 13th 2020 | Posted in Technology by Government Contracting Pipeline

Florida – The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) for the design, build, operation, and maintenance of an autonomous vehicle project.
Jacksonville issues RFQ for autonomous vehicle corridor project

Jacksonville U2C rendering

Phase 1 of the Bay Street Innovation Corridor would construct 3 miles of an autonomous transportation network known as the Ultimate Urban Circulator System, or U2C. The project integrates innovative and emerging technologies into public transportation while enhancing overall mobility throughout downtown Jacksonville.

Furthermore, the project will provide the backbone for future phases of the U2C System, into which it is intended to be integrated and for which it may serve as a model.
The Bay Street corridor is a major thoroughfare cutting east-west through downtown Jacksonville, connecting the historic LaVilla District with the Sports Complex.
JTA is seeking statements of qualifications (SOQs) in order to develop a shortlist of three to five respondents to invite to participate in a request for proposals, scheduled for November 18. JTA anticipates awarding a single contract in March 2021 for all services.
The authority obtained a $12.5 million federal grant and a $13 million commitment from the Florida Department of Transportation to amass $44 million in funding for the first phase.