R --Development and Evaluation of Track Change Detection System

The US Department of Transportation, Research and Innovative Technology Administration, John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center) plans to procure sole source with Rome Navigation Solutions, Inc. to develop and evaluate software which can operate on outputs from an integrated Global Positioning System (GPS) based system, a stored “map” of the immediate track system, and ancillary data (such as accelerometer data), in order to determine if the train is operating on the assigned track. The resulting algorithm must be extraordinarily reliable with respect to minimizing the probability of any incident on the tracks. A desk-top “breadboard and laboratory” is sought under this procurement, in which a design can be tested using actual train performance data made availa ble. Unique software has been developed that will analyze the data and utilize track change system component models as part of producing a design that ensures high system reliability. The contractor shall collect and validate data, suitably modify the integrated GPS/Concept Validation Algorithm, generate test statistics and decision logic, create associated maps, test the algorithms operationally, optimize the code for safe operational use, and provide reports recommendations, and briefings. This procurement will be conducted under Simplified Acquisition procedures in accordance with FAR Part 13. The NAICS Code is 541330 and the small business size standard is $4 Million. Interested firms have 15 calendar days from the date of this synopsis publication to submit in writing to the above named point of contact, clear and convincing documentation of their company’s capability to provide required services. Such documentation will be utilized solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. This proposed action is for services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under authority in FAR Part 6.302 as referenced above. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed purchase order based upon responses received to this notice would normally be considered, solely for the purpose of determining whether to reissue as a competitive procurement. The Request for Quote (RFQ) issuance will be on or about May 2 5, 2005. Small business firms will be required to submit a maximum of three (3) but not less than two (2) pages of documentation in support of the above for evaluation prior to receiving a solicitation. No telephone requests will be accepted – only written requests via email for this solicitation will be accepted. The URL address of the Volpe Center Acquisition Management Division home page is: http://www.volpe.dot.gov/procure/index.html. ATTENTION: Minority, Women-owned, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). The Department of Transportation (DOT), Short-Term Lending Program (STLP) offers working capital financing in the form of lines of credit to finance accounts receivable for transportation related contracts. Maximum line of credit is $750,000 with interest at the prime ra te, as published daily in the Wall Street Journal, plus 1.75 percent. For further information, call (800) 532-1169. Internet address: http://osdbuweb.dot.gov/.