Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) Program Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Corporate Research, Technology and Innovation (HRTM) Research Team is announcing its intent to solicit proposals under this Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). This BAA is developed in accordance with FAR 6.101(b)(3)(ii) and FAR 35.102. This BAA involves the use of a 5-year Open BAA to quickly and efficiently execute research and development to deliver practical solutions to high priority problems. This strategy will provide FHWA an acquisition tool with the flexibility to solicit proposals and make awards that meet present and compelling needs.

Proposals will only be solicited and accepted during individual calls. Calls for proposals will occur periodically throughout the life of the BAA. Each call will identify: (1) specific topic areas; (2) any changes to the standard evaluation criteria or proposal preparation instructions, and (3) cutoff dates for submissions.

This BAA is an expression of interest only and does not commit the Government to pay any proposal preparation costs. All responsible sources capable of satisfying the Government's needs may submit a proposal. The Government reserves the right to award contracts that were determined to be of benefit to the Government in achieving the goals of this program.

The FHWA HRTM Research Team conducts and directs research efforts in support of the development of digital twin application through the Exploratory Advanced Research Program. The FHWA HRTM Research Team leads the development and advancement of higher-risk research in areas of emerging advances in science and engineering that could result in dramatic changes in highway transportation safety, mobility, state of good repair, or environmental stewardship.

The purpose of this BAA is to solicit a variety of solutions that will support the FHWA Exploratory Advanced Research program and the following digital twin program areas (Including but not limited to):

• Construction automation and safety;

• Management of assets including pavements and structures;

• Active roadside safety systems for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.