BRTA Routes Analysis & Integration of On-Demand/Microtransit Study

To enhance public transportation and improve mobility and quality of life in the Berkshires, the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC), on behalf of the Berkshire Metropolitan Planning Organization (BMPO), and in collaboration with the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA), is currently soliciting proposals from qualified consultants to conduct a comprehensive analysis of BRTA Routes and Integration of On-demand/ Microtransit service.

BRPC has apportioned up to **$155,000** for the consultant professional services to complete this BRTA Routes Analysis study. All work performed under this contract must be completed and invoiced prior to **September 17, 2027**.

The overall scope of this "BRTA Routes Analysis & Integration of Microtransit study" is to conduct an in-depth analysis of the current BRTA routes and identify low-ridership fixed routes that could be better served by on-demand/microtransit service. The study will also assess current routes to determine whether they connect neighborhoods to essential services, including hospitals, markets, businesses, major employers, and colleges. Ultimately, identify where, when, and how microtransit will operate in Berkshire County.

Using all available data generated and collected, consultants will produce a series of recommendations in the form of a phased implementation plan for enhanced fixed routes integrated with microtransit service that is sustainable in the long run of operations.

Task 1: Collaboration & Outreach

The consultant chosen for this role is expected to conduct an outreach campaign and engagement with communities within the Berkshires. [...] This study expects the consultant to provide updates and present findings at key milestones to the above-identified Transportation Committees, at a minimum, for public outreach. Three to four virtual meetings with the Berkshire MPO and/or other board(s). It is also expected that the consultant will maintain a study webpage and use social media for public engagement.

Task 2: Needs Assessment – Existing Conditions & Routes Analysis

Under this task, the consultant is expected to perform the following analyses, but not limited to:

• Analyze and document Berkshire County's demographics, socioeconomic characteristics, vehicle ownership, travel patterns, and dependence on public transportation.
• Perform Route Analysis for the BRTA Fixed Routes - A route analysis, also referred to as a "line-by-line" analysis, that helps to understand how well each individual route of the network performs in serving demand within its service area.
• Identify, analyze, and document first/last mile service options, gaps, and unmet needs.

Task 3: Microtransit Implementation - Integration with BRTA Fixed Route

This task will include conducting appropriate research and assessment of the current operating environment and technology usage; preparing scenarios for a phased approach to implementing the Microtransit service; preparing budget proposals; and vetting necessary vehicles and software, as well as potential staff and management to operate this service, by the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority.

The sealed proposals (separate price proposal and non-price/technical proposal), plainly marked "BRTA Routes Analysis Study" in the lower-left corner of the envelope, must be **mailed** to Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, 1 Fenn Street, Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201.

Proposals are due by **Friday, November 20, 2026, by 4:00 PM**. One (1) hard copy file and one (1) digital copy in read-only PDF format on a flash drive shall be included in the submission packages for both the price and non-price/technical proposals.

Non-Price/Technical Proposal may not exceed eighteen (18) total pages (excluding attachments). Price Proposal may not exceed five (5) total pages.

All non-price/ technical proposals received will be opened on Monday, November 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the BRPC office. Price proposals will be opened and reviewed later, after evaluating the non-price/technical proposals.

Late submissions will not be accepted.

The contract period of performance is estimated to begin on December 10, 2026, and terminate on September 30, 2027. The planned completion date for the Draft BRTA Routes Analysis Study report is June 30, 2027, and the Final document/deliverables, including the phased microtransit integration/ implementation plan, are due by August 31, 2027.