State Safety Oversight (SSO) Program Consultant

Background

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is seeking assistance with its oversight responsibilities related to rail transit safety through the State Safety Oversight (SSO) program. This Request for Proposal (RFP) aims to secure Supplier support for the continued development and implementation of Wisconsin’s SSO program, ensuring compliance with federal laws under 49 U.S.C. § 5329 and regulations under 49 CFR Parts 670-674. The selected consultant will help WisDOT maintain continuous compliance with Federal and State law concerning rail transit safety.

Work Details

The Supplier will provide various services including: 1. Building State Safety Oversight Capacity by developing investigation procedures and maintaining training records. 2. Conducting workshops, exercises, and trainings relevant to rail transit service and safety program implementation. 3. Maintaining SSO Agency Oversight by reviewing state administrative rules and ensuring compliance with federal regulations. 4. Collecting and analyzing data, conducting risk-based inspections (RBI), and coordinating with RTA personnel for enhanced data collection. 5. Reviewing or conducting investigations of safety events and hazards, including initiating independent investigations as directed by the SSO agency. 6. Overseeing the RTA Corrective Action Plan (CAP) process, including developing processes for tracking CAP completion. 7. Conducting readiness reviews for new construction projects within SSO jurisdiction. 8. Performing a three-year audit of each rail transit system as required by federal law. 9. Preparing monthly progress reports on SSO program implementation.

Period of Performance

The contract will be effective for two years from the date indicated on the purchase order or contract, with potential renewals for up to three additional one-year periods.

Place of Performance

Services will be performed in the State of Wisconsin, specifically overseeing two Rail Transit Agencies: Kenosha Area Transit (KAT) and Milwaukee Streetcar.

Bidder Requirements

Vendors must demonstrate consulting experience in rail transit oversight, provide proof that staff assigned have or are on track to obtain relevant certifications, submit a conflict of interest statement, and comply with insurance requirements including commercial general liability insurance, business automobile liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance, employers liability insurance, and excess/umbrella liability insurance.