2022 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FOR BASE-FUNDED PROJECTS

Transportation Infrastructure Durability Center 35 Flagstaff Road

Orono, Maine 04469 207.355.4007

tidc@maine.edu www.tidc-utc.org

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................... 2

A.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2

A.2 TIDC Mission and Objectives ..................................................................................................... 2

SECTION B. AWARD INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 2

B.2 Request for Proposals ................................................................................................................. 2

B.3 Research Thrust Areas ................................................................................................................ 2

B.3 Eligible Applicants ...................................................................................................................... 3

SECTION C. PROJECT FUNDING ............................................................................................................. 3

C.1 Cost Share ................................................................................................................................... 3

C.2 Funding Agreements ................................................................................................................... 3

C.3 Funding Restrictions & Requirements ....................................................................................... 4

SECTION D. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................ 4

D.1 Timeline of key proposal events and dates ................................................................................. 4

D.2 Content and form of full applications......................................................................................... 4

D.3 Submission Details: ..................................................................................................................... 9

SECTION E. REVIEW AND SELECTION OF PROJECT PROPOSALS ......................................................... 10

E.1 External Technical Review: ...................................................................................................... 10

E.2 Internal TIDC Review: ............................................................................................................. 10

E.3 Notification of Award ................................................................................................................ 10

E.4 Reporting Requirements ........................................................................................................... 10

SECTION F. EVALUATION CRITERIA .................................................................................................... 10

SECTION G. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................... 12

SECTION H. FURTHER INFORMATION .................................................................................................. 12

H.1 Specific Programmatic Requirements ...................................................................................... 12

H.2 Contact Information ................................................................................................................. 13

SECTION I. GLOSSARY / ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................ 13

ATTACHMENT 1: TIDC PROPOSAL TEMPLATE ................................................................................... 15

ATTACHMENT 2: MILESTONE AND DELIVERABLE SUMMARY TABLE ................................................. 21

ATTACHMENT 3: REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE: .................................... 22

ATTACHMENT 4: NSF BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH FORMAT TEMPLATE ................................................ 23

ATTACHMENT 5: UTC PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET ...................................................................... 25

2

SECTION A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION A.1 Introduction The Transportation Infrastructure Durability Center (TIDC) is a U.S. DOT University Transportation Center (UTC) with the exclusive research focus to improve the durability and extend the life of transportation infrastructure in Region 1 (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts). TIDC is led by the University of Maine and includes the following member institutions: University of Connecticut, University of Massachusetts Lowell, University of Rhode Island, University of Vermont, and Western New England University.

A.2 TIDC Mission and Objectives The mission of TIDC is to develop innovative, sustainable, next-generation solutions to improve the durability and extend the lifespan of existing and new transportation assets in New England and beyond. We are committed to making dramatic impacts in the cost-effectiveness of transportation infrastructure through transformative research, education, outreach, workforce development, and technology transfer through four research thrust areas; 1) monitoring and assessment, 2) new materials for longevity and constructability, 3) new systems for longevity and constructability, and 4) connectivity for enhanced asset and performance management.

SECTION B. AWARD INFORMATION

B.2 Request for Proposals TIDC is seeking base-funded proposals from member universities for transformative research relevant to one of the four research thrusts that will address enhanced durability and life extension of infrastructure and have long-term and real-world value to state departments of transportation and the transportation industry as a whole in New England and beyond. Member universities have an extensive record of accomplishments within the realm of research, education, and technology transfer as it relates to transportation infrastructure. TIDC aims to build upon these successes and actively engage Region 1 state DOT, industry, and agency initiatives and form partnerships to introduce new cutting-edge technology and information that will reduce cost and improve the overall health of Region 1 transportation infrastructure. If selected, the proposed research is scheduled to begin June 3, 2022 or thereafter.

Cross disciplinary projects are desired to broaden the impact of each project. Respondents should carefully review Section D (Submission Requirements and Instructions) of this document.

B.3 Research Thrust Areas Thrust 1: Transportation infrastructure monitoring and assessment for enhanced life

Managing aging civil infrastructure is a major challenge facing every country in the world. Research conducted under this theme tackles this issue through the development and implementation of novel strategies for the assessment and health monitoring of highway bridges, rail structures, pavements, slopes, embankments, and foundations. The ability to monitor the performance and health of these vital elements will provide the information required to prioritize the repair and replacement of our transportation infrastructure, while advanced assessment will justify extending the service life of these assets.

Thrust 2: New materials for longevity and constructability

This thrust investigates new materials and technologies to improve durability and extend the life of transportation infrastructure. The materials and technologies investigated can apply to any relevant mode of transportation (vehicular, rail, etc.).

3

Thrust 3: New systems for longevity and constructability

This research thrust focuses on evaluation, development, performance, reliability, and application of engineering systems to improve the durability and longevity of new and existing transportation infrastructure. New England’s transit networks face challenges related to cold weather, changing climate, aging, deterioration, evolving load demands, construction efficiencies, and congestion, among others. In these times of economic austerity, innovative engineering systems are needed to alleviate existing and future financial strain on the region.

Thrust 4: Connectivity for enhanced asset and performance management

The system operational efficiency of transportation infrastructure can be improved by smart technologies that connect the infrastructure to information/data management systems, vehicles, and roadway users. These emerging, connected technologies – coupled with appropriate and evolving management systems – can improve the durability of existing and new infrastructure. This is essential in the coming age of highly automated, connected vehicles and given the need to improve the performance of the existing infrastructure through more cost-effective and targeted assessments of asset vulnerabilities due to extreme weather events. This research theme applies to all forms of infrastructure including highway, railroad, marine ports, and airports.

B.3 Eligible Applicants Full-time faculty members, faculty researchers, and qualified research staff from member universities are eligible to submit proposals. Proposals may include multiple investigators. Cross disciplinary collaboration projects are strongly encouraged. Proposals with multiple investigators must identify a lead PI. There is no limit to the number of proposals that can be submitted by an individual either as a PI or as a Co-PI.

B.4 Phase 2 Research Proposals being submitted as a continuation of a current research project must submit justification that the results or findings of the research to date, actually warrant further investment by TIDC. This justification must include, as a minimum, the additional requirements in order to justify additional tasks resulting from findings of your current work:

• Results and findings from current research efforts and • The current status (percentage complete) and the anticipated completion date.

SECTION C. PROJECT FUNDING

C.1 Cost Share All TIDC proposed projects must include a minimum 1:1 cost-share or they will not be considered. Cost-share funding can be cash or in-kind. Cost-share funds must be used to accomplish project objectives and must be from a non-federal source. Cost-share funds are considered to be part of the federal funding and are subject to the same restrictions as noted in section C.3. For base-funded projects, all cost-sharing commitments have been met through your University’s commitment to the program. However, we encourage ALL projects to solicit additional CASH match from your University, the State DOT/AOTs, or industry. Letters of commitment for all additional cost share is required. Proposals with cash cost-share and in-kind cost-share from industry, State DOTs, and other non-federal, non-university agencies will receive a higher rating in the budget evaluation.

C.2 Funding Agreements ***IMPORTANT No project/task can have an end date after 9/30/2024.***

4

C.3 Funding Restrictions & Requirements Proposal budgets should reflect the actual anticipated cost of conducting research. Budgets should include an allotment for travel to TIDC’s Annual Conference. These costs should be clearly identified in the budget explanation.

Allowable expenses: Costs that are directly related to completing the work, travel for the TIDC Annual Conference, faculty salary (academic year and summer), student support and tuition/fee reimbursement, and other costs as approved by the TIDC Grant/Fiscal Manager.

Note: Foreign travel is not generally funded by TIDC. PIs are required to obtain written permission (email preferred) from TIDC Administration before incurring and foreign travel costs. Likewise, equipment purchases exceeding $5,000 must first be approved in writing (email preferred) from the TIDC Administration.

Disallowed expenses: Promotional items (including, but not limited to, branded promotional items and memorabilia such as gifts and souvenirs (i.e. pens/pencils)), and other items as noted in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Subtitle A, Chapter II).

SECTION D. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS

D.1 Timeline of key proposal events and dates The following table provides the key events and target dates for the 2022 solicitation.

Key proposal event Due Date Solicitation Date October 15, 2021 Submission of Questions (Optional) November 15, 2021 Submission of Technical Reviewers (Optional) November 15, 2021 Submission Date January 28, 2022 Submission Review Completed March 14, 2022 Notification of Awards April 4, 2022 Anticipated Award Start Date June 3, 2022

D.2 Content and form of full applications This section provides an overview of the required elements to submit for the full proposal package. Failure to submit any of the required items will result in an immediate disqualification of the proposed project.

D.2.1 Required Documents Checklist The following items must be submitted in a single word (.doc or .docx) file using the following naming format: thrustarea.PIfirstinitialLastname.university.proposalnumber (i.e. 2.ACollamore.UMaine.1)

Submission Item Components RFP Section

Technical Proposal (7 page limit)

Written Response: • Abstract/Summary (1/2 page) • Background (1/2 page) • Objectives (1/2 page) • Methodology (1 page) • Tasks and Timeline (2 pages) • Technology Transfer Plan (1 page)

D.2.2

5

• Broader Impacts (1/2 page) • Education & Outreach (1/2 page) • Technical Champion (1/2 page)

Budget and justification • Budget table • Budget Justification D.2.3

Reporting Requirements Acknowledgement Page

Must include: • Signature of PI • Signature of Authorized University

Representative

D.2.4

Support and Commitment Letters

• Technical Champion Letter(s) • Cost-share Commitment Letter(s) • Letter(s) of support from DOT, industry, or

other transportation agencies

D.2.5

Resumes • PI Resume • Co-PI Resume(s) • Technical Champion Resume(s)

D.2.6

UTC Project Information Sheet Complete template D.2.7

Project Summary for Public Release

250 word max submission with an image relevant to the work being conducted to use for the website and marketing materials

D.2.8

Optional Technical Reviewer

Submit names and contact information for potential Technical Reviewers by November 15, 2021.

D.2.2 Technical Proposal The technical proposal is not to exceed 7 pages.

D.2.2.1 Cover Page: The cover page must include the following:

• Project Title, • Proposed Research Thrust Area (as described in Section B.3), • Date of submission, and • The following information for each PI and Co-PI

o Name o Title o Institution o Phone number o Email address o ORCID number

D2.2.1.2 ORCID Numbers: All researchers must obtain his/her unique ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor ID). Researchers should visit ORCID.org to obtain their free ORCID number. The registration process is free and takes about 5 minutes to complete. If other researchers are added to the project after its acceptance and initiation, they are also required to obtain an ORCID and provide it to the TIDC Program Coordinator

6

within 20 days of beginning work on the project. ORCID numbers MUST be included in any peer-reviewed publication submission. This is a non-negotiable requirement of the U.S. DOT.

D.2.2.2 Abstract/Overview: Provide a brief and objective summary of the project including objectives, scope, and methods.

D.2.2.3 Background: Use this section to answer the following questions:

• What durability problem is being addressed? • What has been done previously? • Why is solving this problem important? • What relevance does this project have to the DOT, industry, or agency?

D.2.2.4 Objectives: List and describe the objectives of the project and how they will align with the chosen Research Thrust Area.

D.2.2.5 Methodology: Describe how the project objectives will be accomplished.

D.2.2.6 Tasks, Milestones, and Deliverables: A minimum of one milestone and one associated deliverable must be identified for each task. The first milestone and associated deliverable is due 6 months after the approved project start date. Milestones and their associated deliverables should be planned every 6 months and at the end of every task (if the task end date falls between 6 months reporting periods) for the entire project duration.

If this is a continuation of current research, please see section B4: Phase 2 for additional requirements.

If your project is being submitted as a continuation or extension of your current approved TIDC research, reporting will require your phases to be listed by phase. To reduce administrative work, reporting will continue under the current research project’s number, but all reports will require tasks be separated by phase.

***IMPORTANT No project/task can have an end date after 9/30/2024.*** Additionally, each project is also required to complete the Milestone and Deliverable Summary Table included in the proposal template (attachment 2 of the proposal). Be sure to include the current date above the table. Milestones and deliverables are comprised of outputs and outcomes (please review the definitions section for the USDOT definitions of outputs and outcomes).

The following is a sample of the task tables and milestone and deliverables table as outlined in the proposal template.

TASK TABLE SAMPLE:

Task Title Responsible party Start date End date Task 1 Task title PI 9/1/2021 11/30/2021

Task 2 Task title Grad/Undergrad students & PI 12/1/2021 5/31/2022

Task 3 Task title Grad Student & PI 4/1/2022 3/31/2023 Task 4 Task title Co-PI 4/1/2023 7/31/2024

Task 5 Task title PI, Co-PI, & Grad Student 5/1/2023 12/31/2023

7

SAMPLE MILESTONE TABLE:

Task # Milestone # Description Corresponding

Deliverable(s) Projected Start Date

Projected End Date

1 1a This is the description of this milestone

This is the output of that milestone 9/1/2021 11/30/2021

2 2a This is the description of this milestone

This is the output of that milestone 12/1/2021

3/31/2022 (6 month mark from start of project)

2 2b This is the description of this milestone

This is the output of that milestone 12/1/2021 5/31/2022

2 2c This is the description of this milestone

This is the output of that milestone 3/31/2022 5/31/2022

Etc…

D.2.2.7 Technology Transfer Plan: Answer the following questions:

• Who are the intended stakeholders/users of this research (i.e. Industry, Policy Makers, DOT engineers/designers, operations, planners, etc.)?

• How will the intended stakeholders use the research outcomes? • In addition to preparing the Final Report, how will the research findings be shared with the

intended stakeholders?

Please note, the U.S. DOT requires performance metrics (indicators) to be measurable and include targets (goals) for each measure. More information on and definitions of outputs, outcomes, and impacts can be found in Section I in this RFP and in the U.S. DOT Research, Development and Technology Strategic Plan on the TIDC Website.

D.2.2.8 Broader Impacts: Describe the impacts that the proposed research is expected to have on the transportation industry.

D.2.2.9 Education and Outreach: (This section is eligible for bonus points if it is well planned and documented) Use this section to address the following questions:

• How many undergraduate and graduate students will be involved in the project and what will their role(s) be?

• What education and outreach activities will be conducted? • How will this project provide opportunities for historically underserved and underrepresented

populations? • What kind of K-12 outreach activities could be conducted relative to this work?

8

NOTE: At least one graduate student must be supported by the proposed project. In extreme circumstances, an alternative arrangement may be made with prior written approval from TIDC Administration.

D.2.2.10 Technical Champion: Each project is required to have at least one Technical Champion. Identify the Technical Champion for your proposed research project (include: name, title, company/organization name, phone number, mailing address, and email address) and answer the following questions:

• How will the Technical Champion participate in this project? • How often will the PI meet with the Technical Champion? • How committed is the Technical Champion to the implementation of the research results and how

might they implant them?

Attach a letter of support from the Technical Champion that indicates their agreement to their role in the research, their acceptance of the scope of the proposed research project, and how they plan to help with the implementation or utilization of the research outputs. Additionally, attach the Technical Champion’s resume.

Technical Champion (TC) requirements: • The TC must have subject matter expertise at a DOT, at a Federal agency, or in industry; • The TC will serve as a resource for the researchers/PIs to ensure that the project research is

relevant to DOT, agency, or industry needs and to help integrate the research results into DOT, agency, or industry practice;

• The TC will help review the scope of the work before the project is approved; • The TC will follow the project progress by reviewing the quarterly progress reports and

meeting with researchers quarterly; and • The TC will help with the implementation of the research results during and after the project.

PI requirements and responsibilities in regards to their TC: • Submission of quarterly reports to the TC; • Schedule quarterly meetings with the TC; • Invite TC to seminars, conferences, workshops, quarterly presentations, and the TIDC

Annual Conference; • Keeping minutes of meetings or conversations with the TC (meetings and conversations with

the TC should be listed in the quarterly report); and • If a TC must withdraw from a selected project, it is the responsibility of the PI to find a

replacement with the assistance of their University Lead and the TIDC Program Manager, if needed.

D.2.3 Budget and Justification Budget: Complete the budget table in the proposal template with as much detail as possible. Provide a detailed breakdown of all salary for faculty, staff, and students. The provided budget template table MUST be used in the submission. Make sure to completely fill out the budget table. Please include one budget page per phase if the proposed project includes multiple phases.

Justification: Provide the role of each personnel listed in the proposal. Provide detailed explanations for every other cost item in the budget table. Describe the importance of each cost item and why the expense is needed to produce the deliverables of the proposal. Make sure fringe benefits and indirect costs are accurate. If there are two or more cost-share sources in your proposal, make sure to include a detailed breakdown of how each of the cost-share source will be utilized.

9

See Section C for cost-share requirements, funding agreements, and funding restrictions. If you have questions about the budget page, please contact the TIDC Grant & Fiscal Manager.

D.2.4 Reporting Requirements Acknowledgement Page: The Reporting Requirements and Acknowledgement Page must be submitted with the full proposal packet and must contain signatures from the PI and an authorized member of the PIs University as evidence of understanding of these important requirements under the USDOT contract.

D.2.5 Support and Commitment Letters Letters of Support and Commitment must be submitted with the full proposal packet. The following should be included with the submission:

• A letter from the proposed Technical Champion (required) • A support and cost-share commitment letter signed by an authorized University representative

from each participating university providing CASH match (required if cash match is included) • Cost-share letters from DOTs, agencies, and/or industries clearly stating the amount and nature of

the cost-share (i.e. cash, in-kind) (required if receiving non-university cost-share or cash match) • Other letters of support (optional)

D.2.6 Resumes Provide a 2-page resume in the NSF biographical sketch format for each of the following:

• The PI • The Co-PI(s) • The Technical Champion

D.2.7 UTC Project Information Sheet Each proposed research project must complete the UTC Project Information Sheet (see attachment 5). After the initial information fields are completed, these forms are to be updated every six months, this update will coincide with the March and September quarterly reports. These forms must be updated through the completion of the research project and through the implementation and must include a summary of the benefits of that implementation. These forms are uploaded to the TIDC website as required by the U.S. DOT.

D.2.8 Project Summary for Public Release: Each project is required to submit a 205 word maximum summary (.doc format). This summary should be written for a lay audience (i.e. the general public, media, Congress) using plain English.

D.3 Submission Details: D.3.1 RFP Questions and Answers: TIDC will accept requests for clarifications, questions, and concerns about the RFP until November 15, 2021. Submit all questions to the TIDC Program Coordinator via email (amanda.collamore@maine.edu)

D.3.2 Submission Documents: Proposal submission documents and guidelines are available for download at https://www.tidc-utc.org/pi-toolbox/ or by request to tidc@maine.edu. Supplemental material(s) related to the proposal will not be accepted after the deadline except at the request of the TIDC Administration.

All proposals must be submitted using the TIDC Proposal Template located at https://www.tidc-utc.org/pi-toolbox/ (see attachment 1: TIDC Proposal Template). The document should be single spaced with Times New Roman font no smaller than 12 pt.

10

Each proposal must be submitted electronically in the formats listed in the table in Section D.2.1 to tidc@maine.edu no later than 5:00 pm on January 28, 2022. The file should be saved using the following format: Thrust Area number, PI last name and first initial, institution name, and submission number (if submitting more than one proposal for the current submission cycle). For example, the first or a single submission would be 3CollamoreA_UMaine. A second submission would be 2CollamoreA_UMaine2. Each proposal needs to be submitted as a separate email.

TIDC reserves the right to reject proposals that: (1) are received after the deadline, (2) do not meet the eligibility requirements, (3) are incomplete, (4) do not meet the thematic requirements, or (5) does not add real-world value to DOTS and the transportation industry.

SECTION E. REVIEW AND SELECTION OF PROJECT PROPOSALS All project proposals will go through the following process:

E.1 External Technical Review: External technical reviewers who are experts in the field will review all project proposals based on the criteria in Section F. Reviewers may generate a list of questions for the PIs. (If a panel of technical reviewers has been identified and approved.)

E.2 Internal TIDC Review: TIDC Administration and Advisory Board members will review and rank the proposals. Questions may be sent to the PI if deemed necessary for clarification during the decision-making process.

E.3 Notification of Awards: TIDC Administration will notify all applicants by April 4, 2022. TIDC reserves the right to negotiate the scope or budget to better fit the mission and objectives of the Center.

E.4 Reporting Requirements: PIs will complete all grant deliverables and reporting requirements (see Section G for more information) in order to receive initial and continued funding from TIDC. Continued funding is contingent on timely submission of grant deliverables and reporting requirements.

SECTION F. EVALUATION CRITERIA All proposals will be reviewed as discussed in Section E. The proposals will be evaluated using the following criteria:

Impact of the proposed research (30%) – This criterion involves consideration of the following:

• The potential for transformative advancement to improve the durability and/or longevity of the transportation infrastructure;

• The proposed research addresses a specific need and adds real-world value to the transportation industry;

• Thorough understanding of the current state-of-the art and presentation of an innovative technical approach to significantly improve the performance over the current state-of-the-art;

• Awareness of competing commercial and emerging technologies and identification of how the proposed concept/technology provides significant improvement over these other current solutions;

• A reasonable and effective strategy for technology transfer; and

11

• The research plan clearly identifies how the project will produce significant outputs, outcomes and impacts as defined in Section I of this RFP.

Scientific and Technical Merit (30%) – This criterion involves consideration of the following:

• The proposed project, associated tasks, and final product support the TIDC Thrust Areas, objectives and mission;

• The proposed work is unique and innovative in its approach to design, maintenance, construction, monitoring, or assessment of transportation infrastructure durability and longevity;

• The proposed research has the potential to be applied to a broad array of transportation assets to have a wide impact across the transportation sector; and

• Clearly defined project outcomes, milestones, and final deliverables.

Qualifications, Experience, and Capabilities of the Proposed Project Team (20%) – This criterion involves consideration of the following:

• The PI and project team have the skill and expertise needed to successfully execute the project plan; and

• The qualifications and clear description of role and activities of the Technical Champion in regards to their commitment toward the implementation of the research findings, as evidenced by a letter of commitment from the Technical Champion.

Collaboration (10%) – This criterion involves consideration of the following:

• Multidisciplinary collaboration; and • Collaboration with industry, state DOTs, and other transportation organizations.

Budget (10%) – This criterion involves consideration of the following:

• The budget is reasonable, cost-effective, and directly applicable to the proposed work to be completed; and

• The minimum of 1:1 cost-share is evidenced by letters of commitment from non-federal agencies providing the cost-share.

Bonus Points (up to 15 points):

• Up to 10 bonus points will be given to the proposed research if cash match or in-kind match from outside, non-federal organizations (i.e. industry, state DOTs, and other transportation organizations) are committed to the research as evidenced by letters of commitment from said organizations.

• Up to 5 bonus points will be given to the proposed research project for cash match from universities as evidenced by letters of commitment from said universities.

• NOTE: University salary and tuition waivers do not count toward bonus points. • Up to 5 bonus points will be given to the proposed research project for a well-

documented Education and Outreach plan including potential K-12 outreach activities related to the proposed work.

Total Score Minimum Requirement

• All submitted RFPs MUST receive a score of at least 75 points in order to be considered for selection after the Advisory Board Review Process.

12

SECTION G. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS All research projects must provide the following reporting requirements and grant deliverables in order to receive continued funding:

1. Quarterly Progress Reports and Performance Indicators submitted in accordance with TIDC and U.S. DOT requirements to the project’s Technical Champion(s) and TIDC Reporting Manager.

2. Quarterly budget spend rate is required with the submission of the Quarterly Progress Report. Project PIs are responsible for working with their University to obtain this information. Upon request, for either the project PI or the university, the TIDC Fiscal & Grant Manager will assist with this process.

3. UTC Project Information Sheet is to be updated 6 months and as request by TIDC Administration. 4. Project Summary that is suitable for a general audience that summarizes the scope, objectives, and

expected outcomes and impact of the research is to be completed initially and updated as requested by TIDC Administration.

5. A Final Report Draft must be submitted 30 days before the completion of the project. The draft is subject to review by the TIDC Administration. The draft should be complete, original, well organized, accurate, and should follow the TIDC Final Report guidelines.

6. A Final Report that is completed addressing review comments and requirements must be submitted within 30 days after the review of the draft report. Final Reports are posted on the TIDC website and delivered to the Transportation Library, the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, the Federal Highway Administration Research Library, and the National Technical Information Service.

7. A Research Summary that is suitable for a general audience that summarizes the main findings of the research and how it has contributed to the practice and/policy of transportation infrastructure is to be completed 30 days after the completion of the project.

8. A list and copies of all papers submitted to journals or conferences that are focused on the project’s research are to be submitted to the TIDC Coordinator with the Quarterly Progress Reports and upon request from TIDC Administration.

9. Participation in the Annual TIDC Regional Conference. 10. Compliance with the TIDC Data Management and Technology Transfer Plans. (Documents provided

upon selection of project.) 11. A list of inventions and patents to be submitted to iEdison as they are filed or issued. All submissions

must also to be reported in the Quarterly Progress Reports and upon request from TIDC Administration.

12. Any other additional reporting and budget requirements requested by the TIDC or U.S. DOT.

More detailed guidelines, timelines, and required templates for reporting requirements can be found in the PI-Toolbox on the TIDC website (https://www.tidc-utc.org/pi-toolbox/).

SECTION H. FURTHER INFORMATION

H.1 Specific Programmatic Requirements This section gives a high level overview of the specific requirements laid out by the U.S. DOT in the General Provisions of Grants for 2016, 2018 and 2019 University Transportation Centers document. The full document can be found on the TIDC website under the PI-Toolbox tab.

H.1.2 Patents and Copyrights All inventions and patents developed with UTC funding (in whole or in part) must be reporting to the U.S. DOT through the web-based Interagency Edison (iEdison) electronic system. PIs are required to report patents to the TIDC Program Coordinator in addition to their universities technology transfer office

13

or office of technology licensing (or the like) at the time of the initial submission and within 45 days of the approval of said patent or invention in order to comply with the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980.

H.1.3 Copyrights The author of books, publications, or other copyrightable materials is allowed to copyright said material as a result of the work completed using UTC funding (in whole or in part), but the U.S. DOT reserves a royalty-free, nonexclusive and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use and to authorize others to use the work for government purposes.

PIs may arrange for publication of initial reports of original research, supported in whole or in part by UTC funding, in scientific journals and copyright by the journal unless the journal’s copyright policy would preclude an individual from making or having made by any means available, without regard to the copyright of the journal and without royalty, a single copy of any such article for the individual’s own use.

H.2 Contact Information For more information about TIDC and this solicitation, please visit www.tidc-utc.org or contact the TIDC Program Coordinator or the TIDC Grant & Fiscal Manager for budget and funding related questions.

TIDC Administration: TIDC Center Director: Dr. Habib Dagher, hd@maine.edu TIDC Senior Program Manager: James R. Bryce, james.bryce@maine.edu TIDC Program Coordinator: Amanda Collamore, amanda.collamore@maine.edu TIDC Grant & Fiscal Manager: Vu Phan, le.phan@maine.edu TIDC Administrative Specialist: Gavin Wasson, gavin.wasson@maine.edu

SECTION I. GLOSSARY / ABBREVIATIONS Agency: A business or organization that provides a specific service like transportation services (i.e. DOTs, construction companies, airports, railroad companies, etc.)

Broader Impacts: According to the NSF: “the potential to benefit society and contribute to the achievement of specific, desired societal outcomes.” For more information about Broader Impacts and how this section will be rated, please visit https://broaderimpacts.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nabi_guiding_principles.pdf.

Deliverable: The quantifiable output(s) that will be provided upon successful completion of a project task.

iEdison: A web-based Interagency Edison electronic system used to register inventions and patents.

Impacts: The effects of the outcomes on the transportation system such as reduced fatalities, decreased capital or operating costs, community impacts, or environmental benefits. The reported impacts from UTCs are used for the assessment of each UTC and to make a case for Federal funding of research and education by demonstrating the impacts that UTC funding has had on technology and education. NOTE: The U.S. DOT uses this information to assess how the research and education programs (a) improve the operation and safety of the transportation system; (b) increase the body of knowledge and technologies; (c) enlarge the pool of people trained to develop knowledge and utilize technologies; and (d) improves the physical, institutional, and information resources that enable people to have access to training and new technologies.

Milestone: The tangible, observable measurement that will be provided upon the successful completion of a project task.

14

NSF: Nation Science Foundation

ORCID: Open Research and Contributor ID – A free, unique identifier for researchers that links research objects (i.e. publications, grants, and patents) completed by each researcher.

Outcomes: The application of outputs; any changes made to the transportation system, or its regulatory, legislative, or policy framework, resulting from research and development activities.

Outputs: Any new or improved process, practice, technology, software, training aid, or other tangible product resulting from research and development activities. They are used to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of transportation systems.

PI: Principal Investigator

Project team: This includes the PI, Co-Pi(s), Technical Champion, student(s), and any other collaborator identified in the proposal and, if selected, during the implementation of the research.

Task: An operation or segment of the work plan that requires both effort and resources. Each task is connected to the overall objective or the project through the achievement of a milestone and deliverable.

Technical Champion (TC): A subject matter expert that supports the project before, during and after the proposed research is completed. The TC will support the implementation of the intended findings upon the completion of the research.

15

ATTACHMENT 1: TIDC PROPOSAL TEMPLATE

Project Title Research Thrust Area:

Date:

PI Name: PI Title:

PI Institution: PI Mailing Address: PI Phone Number: PI Email Address:

PI ORCID Number:

Co-PI Name: Co-PI Title:

Co-PI Institution: Co-PI Mailing Address: Co-PI Phone Number: Co-PI Email Address:

Co-PI ORCID Number:

Co-PI Name: Co-PI Title:

Co-PI Institution: Co-PI Mailing Address: Co-PI Phone Number: Co-PI Email Address:

Co-PI ORCID Number:

16

TABLE OF CONTENTS I. PROJECT ABSTRACT/SUMMARY: ...................................................................................................... 17

II. BACKGROUND: ................................................................................................................................ 17

III. OBJECTIVES: .................................................................................................................................. 17

IV. METHODOLOGY: ............................................................................................................................ 17

V. TASKS AND TIMELINE: .................................................................................................................... 17

VI. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: ............................................................................................................. 17

VII. BROADER IMPACTS: ..................................................................................................................... 17

VIII. EDUCATION AND OUTREACH: ..................................................................................................... 17

IX. TECHNICAL CHAMPION: ................................................................................................................ 17

X. REFERENCES: .................................................................................................................................. 18

X1. BUDGET PAGE: .............................................................................................................................. 19

XI1. BUDGET JUSTIFICATION: ............................................................................................................. 20

ATTACHMENT 1: SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT LETTERS ................................................................... 21

ATTACHMENT 2: MILESTONE AND DELIVERABLE SUMMARY TABLE ................................................. 21

ATTACHMENT 3: REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE: .................................... 22

ATTACHMENT 4: NSF BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH FORMAT TEMPLATE ................................................ 23

ATTACHMENT 5: UTC PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET ...................................................................... 25

ATTACHMENT 6: SUMMARY FOR PUBLIC RELEASE ............................................................................ 26

17

I. PROJECT ABSTRACT/SUMMARY: (1/2 Page Limit): II. BACKGROUND: (1/2 Page Limit): III. OBJECTIVES: (1/2 Page Limit) IV. METHODOLOGY: (1 Page Limit): V. TASKS AND TIMELINE: (2 Page Limit): The project will be completed in XX months as follows: Phase 1: # of months

Task Title Responsible party Start date End date Task 1 Task 2 Task 3

Phase 2: # of months (if applicable)

Task Title Responsible party Start date End date Task 1 Task 2 Task 3

Task Details: VI. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: (1 Page Limit): VII. BROADER IMPACTS: (1/2 Page Limit): VIII. EDUCATION AND OUTREACH: (1/2 Page Limit): IX. TECHNICAL CHAMPION: (1/2 Page Limit): Name of Technical Champion: Title: Organization:

18

Phone Number: Email: Date of first meeting with the Technical Champion: X. REFERENCES: (No Page Limit)

19

X1. BUDGET PAGE: [Insert date completed]

(No Page Limit INCLUDE 1 Page per University if multiple Universities are involved) Include one budget page and justification per phase (if applicable)

Category Name/Description Budgeted

Amount from Federal Share

Budgeted Amount from

Cost Share

Explanatory Notes

Faculty Salaries Faculty A Faculty B Administrative Staff Salaries Staff 1 Staff 2 Other Staff Salaries Staff 3 Staff 4 Student Salaries Graduate Student Undergrad Students Fringe Benefits

Total Salaries and Benefits Student Tuition Permanent Equipment Expendable Property, Supplies, and Services Material & Supplies General Tools Services Domestic Travel Foreign Travel Other Direct Costs (specify) ODC 1 ODC 2 ODC 3 F&A (Indirect) Costs

TOTAL COSTS

20

XI1. BUDGET JUSTIFICATION: (No Page Limit)

Faculty Salaries Please provide an explanation of faculty salary compensation. Administrative Staff Salaries Please provide an explanation of administrative staff salaries. (Leave blank if not applicable) Other Staff Salaries Please provide an explanation of other staff salaries. (Leave blank if not applicable) Graduate Student Salaries Please provide an explanation of graduate student monthly salaries. Undergraduate Student Salaries Please provide an explanation of undergraduate student hours. Fringe Benefits Please provide an explanation of fringe benefits costs. Student Tuition Please provide an explanation of student tuition costs. Domestic Travel Please provide an explanation of domestic travel costs. Foreign Travel Please provide an explanation of foreign travel costs. (Leave blank if not applicable) Other Direct Costs Please provide an explanation of other direct costs. (Leave blank if not applicable) F&A (Indirect) Costs Please provide an explanation of indirect costs. (Leave blank if not applicable) Cost Share Requirement Please explain where your cost share is coming from and provide a letter or letters of support from outside funding sources.

ATTACHMENT 1: SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT LETTERS Attach support and commitment letters here.

ATTACHMENT 2: MILESTONE AND DELIVERABLE SUMMARY TABLE [Insert Date Completed]

Task # Milestone # Description Corresponding Deliverable(s) Projected

Start Date Projected End Date

ATTACHMENT 3: REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE: I, _______________________________, acknowledge I am required to meet the following reporting requirements. I understand that failure to do so may result in loss of funding.

1. Quarterly Progress Reports and Performance Indicators submitted in accordance with TIDC and U.S. DOT requirements to the project’s Technical Champion(s) and TIDC Reporting Manager.

2. Quarterly budget spend rate is required with the submission of the Quarterly Progress Report. Project PIs are responsible for working with their University to obtain this information. Upon request, for either the project PI or the university, the TIDC Fiscal & Grant Manager will assist with this process.

3. UTC Project Information Sheet is to be updated 6 months and as request by TIDC Administration.

4. Project Summary that is suitable for a general audience that summarizes the scope, objectives, and expected outcomes and impact of the research is to be completed initially and updated as requested by TIDC Administration.

5. A Final Report Draft must be submitted 30 days before the completion of the project. The draft is subject to review by the TIDC Administration. The draft should be complete, original, well organized, accurate, and should follow the TIDC Final Report guidelines.

6. A Final Report that is completed addressing review comments and requirements must be submitted within 30 days after the review of the draft report. Final Reports are posted on the TIDC website and delivered to the Transportation Library, the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, the Federal Highway Administration Research Library, and the National Technical Information Service.

7. A Research Summary that is suitable for a general audience that summarizes the main findings of the research and how it has contributed to the practice and/policy of transportation infrastructure is to be completed 30 days after the completion of the project.

8. A list and copies of all papers submitted to journals or conferences that are focused on the project’s research are to be submitted to the TIDC Coordinator with the Quarterly Progress Reports and upon request from TIDC Administration.

9. Participation in the Annual TIDC Regional Conference. 10. Compliance with the TIDC Data Management and Technology Transfer Plans. (Documents

provided upon selection of project.) 11. A list of inventions and patents to be submitted to iEdison as they are filed or issued. All

submissions must also to be reported in the Quarterly Progress Reports and upon request from TIDC Administration.

12. Any other additional reporting and budget requirements requested by the TIDC or U.S. DOT.

More detailed guidelines, timelines, and required templates for reporting requirements can be found in the PI-Toolbox on the TIDC website (https://www.tidc-utc.org/pi-toolbox/). Name (Print): _________________________________________________________________ Title: ________________________________________________________________________ Signature & Date: ______________________________________________________________ Approved University Representative Name: _________________________________________ Signature & Date: ______________________________________________________________

23

ATTACHMENT 4: NSF BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH FORMAT TEMPLATE Biographical Sketch Sample Format: Name Job Title Professional Address Telephone number Email address *Note: No personal information (e.g. home address, home phone, marital status) should be included* The following information must be provided in the order and format specified below: (a) Professional Preparation A list of the individual's undergraduate and graduate education and postdoctoral training as indicated below: Undergraduate Institution Location Major Degree and Year Graduate Institution Location Major Degree and Year Postdoctoral Institution Location Area Degree and Year (b) Appointments In reverse chronological order, list the individual’s academic/professional appointments. [Most recent appointment] [Previous appointment(s)] [First appointment] (c) Products [this section may be titled Publications if only publications are listed] (i) List up to five (5) publications/products most closely related to the proposed project (ii) List up to five (5) other significant publications/products, whether or not related to the proposed project. Acceptable products must be citable and accessible including but not limited to publications, data sets, software, patents, and copyrights. Unacceptable products are unpublished documents not yet submitted for publication, invited lectures, and additional lists of products. Only the list of 10 will be used in the review of the proposal. [Unpublished documents submitted/accepted for publication are acceptable and should include likely date of publication] Citation format: Each product must include full citation information including (where applicable and practicable) names of all authors, date of publication or release, title, title of enclosing work such as journal or book, volume, issue, pages, website and URL or other Persistent Identifier. (d) Synergistic Activities

24

A list of up to five distinct examples that demonstrate the broader impact of the individual’s professional and scholarly activities that focuses on the integration and transfer of knowledge as well as its creation. Examples should be specific and could include: innovations in teaching and training (e.g., development of curricular materials and pedagogical methods); contributions to the science of learning; development and/or refinement of research tools; computation methodologies, and algorithms for problem-solving; development of databases to support research and education; broadening the participation of groups underrepresented in science, mathematics, engineering and technology; and service to the scientific and engineering community outside of the individual’s immediate organization. Examples with multiple components are not permitted. Sample examples and format: • Served as Co-Chair of Academic Conference (2016) • Member of the National Academy of Sciences (2012-present) • Served as NIH Peer Reviewer (2014-2015) • Organized summer workshop to deliver training to undergraduates interested in research

(2012) • Served on editorial board of Academic Journal (2013-2015) Additional Instructions for Other Personnel (i.e. individuals not classified as Senior Personnel) For the personnel categories listed below, the proposal also may include information on exceptional qualifications that merit consideration in the evaluation of the proposal. Such information should be clearly identified as “Other Personnel” biographical information and uploaded as a single PDF file in the Other Supplementary Documents section of the proposal. (a) Postdoctoral associates (b) Other professionals (c) Students (research assistants) Additional Instructions for Equipment Proposals For equipment proposals, the following must be provided for each auxiliary user: (a) Short biographical sketch; and (b) List of up to five publications most closely related to the proposed acquisition. Such information should be clearly identified as "Equipment Proposal" biographical information and uploaded as a single PDF file in the Other Supplementary Documents section of the proposal.

25

ATTACHMENT 5: UTC PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET

UTC Project Information – Project # Project Title University Principal Investigator PI Contact Information Co-PI(s) Co-PI Contact Information Funding Source(s) and Amounts Provided (by each agency or organization)

Total Project Cost Agency ID or Contract Number

Start and End Dates Brief Description of Research Project

Summary written for a science high school audience

Describe Implementation of Research Outcomes (or why not implemented) Place Any Photos Here

To be completed after actual implementation has occurred

Impacts/Benefits of Implementation (actual, not anticipated)

To be completed after actual implementation has occurred

Web Links • Reports • Project website

26

ATTACHMENT 6: SUMMARY FOR PUBLIC RELEASE

Insert summary and project image here.