WeGo board awards capital project management contract to FairPoint Planning with 50% DBE commitment

The Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority board authorized the chief executive officer to execute a contract with FairPoint Planning to provide capital project management services for WeGo's expanded capital investment program.

Debbie Frank, deputy CEO for growth and development, told the board staff solicited proposals through RFP 2024183 and conducted outreach to more than 80 firms, including DBEs and small businesses. Four proposals were received; following interviews and evaluation, FairPoint Planning — a locally headquartered certified DBE — was selected. "FairPoint Planning committed to a 50% DBE participation, really exceeding that 8% goal that we had," Frank said.

Frank said the selected consultant will serve as lead adviser and project manager across the authority's capital portfolio and will not be eligible to bid on future design work for projects where they advise. The contract period is three years with up to two one-year extensions. The scope covers the full capital project life cycle: planning, design, procurement, construction management, community engagement, risk management and closeout for projects including all-access corridors, transit centers, park-and-ride facilities, O&M facilities and transit-oriented development.

Board members asked whether contingencies are included and how the contract amount is controlled; staff said the current authorization amount is $20,200,000 and that if spending approached that limit they would return to the board for additional authorization. Staff also noted FairPoint's subconsultants included Hatch, Jacobs, MP&F, Strategic Communications, Tyler Construction Engineers and Wilmont.

The board moved and seconded the recommendation (action MA-25-027) and approved the contract as recommended by staff.

Sources: Staff presentation by Debbie Frank; procurement and RFP summary presented to the board; board action approving MA-25-027.