Artificial Intelligence Transportation Systems Management and Operations Data initiative
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) / Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for an Artificial Intelligence Transportation Systems Management and Operations (AI TSMO) Data initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the availability, quality, interoperability, and governance of TSMO data to support AI solution development. Responses are due by February 20, 2026, Noon ET.
Purpose & Scope
This notice is solely for informational, market research, and planning purposes, and does not commit the Government to any future contract actions. The FHWA seeks to identify small businesses, academic institutions, and other entities capable of developing resources, tools, and methods for implementing AI in public sector transportation agencies for TSMO functions. The work will be performed for the Office of Safety and Operations Research and Development at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, VA.
Project Details
The project is anticipated to be a 12-month effort, structured in two phases:
- Phase 1 (6 months): Screen AI models and data for TSMO use cases, identify, and prioritize data readiness gaps.
- Phase 2 (6 months): Develop a prototype to address identified high-priority data gaps. An optional third phase may involve further development, testing, and support for prototype adoption.
Key Capabilities Sought
The government is interested in capabilities and experience related to:
- TSMO-related datasets, including issues like quality, completeness, metadata, access, and format.
- TSMO-relevant data standards (e.g., WZDx, TMDD, MIRE, GTFS, CV).
- Metadata standards, schemas, and management tools.
- Development of AI/Machine Learning (ML) approaches for data preparation, management, and interoperability.
- Development and evaluation of AI/ML models for TSMO use cases.
- Project management and collaboration with diverse organizations.
Submission Requirements
- Deadline: February 20, 2026, Noon ET.
- Format: White paper/thesis format, PDF or Word, minimum 12-point font, 1-inch margins. Maximum 10 pages (excluding cover page, title page, tables of contents, etc.).
- Content: A capabilities statement package detailing project/solution description, technical data, demonstrated ability, relevant experience, qualifications, past projects, client references, available resources, and management/personnel information.
- Set-Aside: Prime small businesses must perform at least 50% of the work.
- Submission: Electronically to Vivian.Riboli@dot.gov and Amalia.Rodezno@dot.gov.
- Subject Line: AI TSMO Data Initiative - Sources Sought Notice Response.
Next Steps
Responses will be reviewed within 14 days of receipt. A subsequent Request for Proposals (RFP) may be issued.