This is a service / maintenance or supply contract in Albany, New York. Contact the soliciting agency for additional information.

The New York State Thruway Authority seeks a qualified consultant to provide technical, operational, and programmatic support for the implementation of its Stage 2 USDOT SMART Grant Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)-Based Infrastructure Inspection Program. This initiative aims to enhance and scale UAS and advanced digital workflows statewide for infrastructure inspection, safety improvement, and predictive maintenance. Services may include: - Grant Program Development & Implementation Support: Finalize and document operational workflows for UAS-assisted inspections, develop and validate training programs for pilots, engineers, and data analysts, and assist in scaling operations across NYSTA divisions. - Workforce Development & Training: Create training curriculum for UAS pilots, data analysts, and engineers, and support scaling of technology/processes to other state agencies. - Technical Services: Integrate UAS data with existing inspection reporting systems, develop and maintain digital forms, APIs, and cloud-based data collection/processing workflows, provide expertise in AI/ML applications for predictive maintenance and digital twin development, initiate machine learning models for defect detection and deterioration forecasting, and perform digital twin modeling for a designated portion of the Authority’s bridge structures. - Regulatory & Compliance Support: Ensure compliance with FAA Part 107 and UAS requirements, assist with NEPA/SEQR documentation, support cybersecurity/interoperability requirements, prepare FAA waiver applications for advanced operations, and advise on evolving FHWA/FAA regulations. - Public Engagement & Workforce Development: Develop outreach materials for stakeholder engagement and support workforce initiatives aligned with USDOT priorities, including disadvantaged communities. - Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track KPIs for safety, efficiency, and environmental benefits, prepare reports for USDOT and other stakeholders, conduct market research on UAS platforms/sensors, and recommend platform-agnostic solutions. Specialized subconsultant services may be required, including FAA regulatory compliance, advanced geospatial data/cloud integration, AI/ML predictive modeling, digital twin development, and training program design. The anticipated value may be up to $4.0 million over three years, with two one-year extension options. Specific instructions to bidders include strict requirements for the Letter of Interest (LOI), registration and certification compliance, submission format, and various state and federal policies regarding workplace conduct, MWBE/SDVOB participation, environmental product declarations, and prevailing wage rates. Firms must follow detailed content and formatting guidelines for LOIs, submit required forms, organizational chart, and ensure all certifications and policies are current and compliant with New York State regulations.