Marin Access Request for Proposal (RFP) and Procurement

Why are you changing service providers?  

For more than 50 years, Marin Transit has provided ADA paratransit service to older adults and people with disabilities in Marin County. As the County’s population of those aging in place grows, we need to ensure that there is a robust transit system that will empower older adults and people with disabilities to live independently, travel with confidence, and keep them connected to the community.

After a thorough and competitive procurement process, Marin Transit recommended awarding the contract to the highest scoring proposal, from Transdev Services, Inc. In their proposal, the Transdev team demonstrated that they can manage the evolving needs of the Marin Access services and programs as they continue to grow and evolve. 

 When will the transition happen?

There will be a four month transition period before the new provider assumes responsibility for operations on February 1, 2022.

What did the procurement process include?

In March 2021, Marin Transit released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Operation of Marin Access Services and Programs. The RFP process spanned more than six months, with more than half of that being dedicated to allow for a thorough evaluation of the proposals received. Prior to the release of the RFP, staff worked with a subcommittee, made up of members of our advisory committees, to request their input and insight into how we should shape the RFP and what factors were important to them. The subcommittee was comprised of seven members: three representatives from the Marin Paratransit Coordinating Council, two representatives from the Marin Mobility Consortium, and one representative from the Advisory Committee on Accessibility. We are very thankful for their input as we moved through this process.

In late May, staff received two strong responses to the RFP – one from the incumbent, Vivalon (formerly known as Whistlestop) and one from Transdev Services, Inc. Both firms were invited to interview with a technical panel made up of Marin Transit staff, Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District Staff, and a representative from Santa Rosa City Bus. Interviews were conducted via Zoom. The interviews were followed by a series of clarifying questions and subsequent follow-up questions. Each firm was given the opportunity to revise and update their proposal following each request for clarifications from the evaluation panel. In late July, each firm was offered an opportunity to do a walk through of the Kerner facility. Finally, in mid-August, we requested a best and final offer, or BAFO, from each proposer. The BAFO is the final opportunity for firms to refine and improve their technical proposal and associated costs.

Who participated in the evaluation committee?  

The evaluation committee that scored the proposals received was made up of representatives of Marin Transit staff, Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District staff, and a representative from Santa Rosa City Bus.

Why would Marin Transit select an operator at a higher cost?

Under Marin Transit’s Procurement Policy, and as a recipient of federal funds, Marin Transit is required to competitively procure goods and services. This procurement was developed as a “Best Value” procurement, as indicated in the RFP, and allowed Marin Transit to select the offer deemed most advantageous and of greatest value to the agency. The award selection was based upon consideration of a combination of technical and price factors based on the criteria identified in the RFP.

The contract was awarded to the firm that submitted the highest scoring proposal as they were determined to offer the best value to the District that will lead to overall improvements to operations and the rider experience.

Why didn’t Marin Transit give preference to Vivalon, a local non-profit?

Federal Transit Administration (FTA) procurement policies prohibit the use of in-state or local geographical preferences in the solicitation and evaluation of bids or proposals.

What was the role of the Marin Paratransit Coordinating Council in this process?

Marin Paratransit Coordinating Council members had the opportunity to join a subcommittee to provide input on and help shape the RFP.

Were community members given an opportunity to provide input on the proposals received?

No, FTA procurement policies require that confidentiality be maintained in order to allow for an open and competitive process. Community members had the opportunity to provide input on the staff recommendation for the award presented to the Marin Transit Board of Directors on September 13, 2021.

Were community members given an opportunity to provide input on the contract award?

Community members had the opportunity to provide input on the staff recommendation for award presented to the Marin Transit Board of Directors on September 13, 2021.

Why would Marin Transit choose to switch vendors in the middle of the pandemic?

Marin Transit developed the RFP recognizing the new realities of the COVID-19 pandemic and uncertainties about if, or when demand for these services and programs would return. The new contract will allow greater flexibility and opportunity to explore alternative service models for how Marin Access services and programs are delivered, with the intention of improving the rider experience and streamlining operations.

What will happen to Vivalon?

We are thankful for the 50 years of service provided by Vivalon and the work they continue to do to serve the community through programs, classes, meal delivery and food access, and care for older adults.  Though the service provider is changing, jobs will be offered to all qualified drivers and frontline staff who want them, with increased benefits and higher wages. We expect to maintain our great relationship with the Vivalon team and are eager to explore new ways we can collaborate in the future. 

What will Marin Transit do to ensure that the new vendor continues to provide the same great service riders are used to?

Marin Transit’s Board of Directors and our staff are responsible for and committed to holding our contractors accountable for delivering safe, courteous, and efficient service.

Marin Transit monitors the performance of their contractors in many ways including through service monitoring, reviewing input and comments from riders, and regular coordination and communication with contractors.