How to bid on FHWA Transportation Data Collection, Data Method Development, Data Processing, and Information Extraction

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is seeking information regarding transportation data collection, the development of data methods, data processing, and the extraction of information. This is a Request for Information (RFI), which means the agency is gathering details from the industry to help shape future plans, not directly awarding a contract at this stage.

For vendors, this is an opportunity to inform the FHWA about your capabilities and expertise in these areas. Your input can influence how the agency approaches these topics in upcoming solicitations.

Key dates and deadlines

This RFI was published on August 24, 2026. If you have questions about the RFI, they must be submitted by August 31, 2026. All responses to the RFI are due by September 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your response before this deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This RFI is suitable for firms with expertise in various aspects of transportation data. This includes companies specializing in data collection technologies and methodologies, data processing services, and advanced information extraction techniques relevant to transportation systems. Firms that develop or implement data methods would also find this relevant.

The opportunity falls under the professional services category, indicating a need for specialized knowledge and technical skills in data management and analysis within the transportation sector.

How to respond

To access the full RFI details, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required.

When submitting your response or any communications, make sure to include the RFI number, HPPI_RFI_2026. This ensures your submission is correctly identified by the agency.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When responding to an RFI, focus on clearly articulating your firm's capabilities and experience in the specific areas mentioned: data collection, method development, processing, and information extraction. Provide concrete examples of past projects or relevant expertise.

Even though this is not a contract award, a well-prepared response can establish your firm as a knowledgeable and capable resource for the agency. Ensure your submission is well-organized, concise, and directly addresses the information requested by the FHWA. Pay close attention to any specific questions or areas of interest outlined in the RFI document itself.