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Council authorizes RFP to solicit bids for unified transit operations including BRT and paratransit

Rochester City Council · November 18, 2025

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Summary

Council authorized release of a draft 95‑page RFP seeking management and operations proposals for Rochester’s fixed-route, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and paratransit (Zips) services. Staff emphasized integration across modes, new CAD/AVL tracking, stronger performance metrics and liquidated damages for missed service.

Interim Transit and Parking Director Rachel Fouch presented the draft request for proposals to procure a contractor to operate the city’s fixed-route services, the upcoming BRT Link service and paratransit (Zips). Staff said unifying modes under one contract should improve cross-training, coordination and customer experience. The RFP includes a 60-month initial term with an optional 60‑month renewal; price adjustments on renewal are capped at the lesser of CPI or 3%.

Key items in the RFP packet include the planned implementation of a single CAD/AVL (Equans) to provide one source of truth for on‑time performance and ridership counts; a new city phone system to improve customer service; stronger liquidated-damage provisions (for operator failure to log on, missed trips, and Zips no‑shows); and contractor responsibility for a city deductible for vehicle/property damage. Staff said the draft RFP was shared with MnDOT and Mayo Clinic partners and that the city expects multiple bidders. Council authorized RFP release and directed staff to incorporate public and partner feedback.