Agenda Item No: K.4
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: April 21, 2026
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: David Gassaway, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution 2026-60 PW Adaptive Traffic Control System Support Services
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Professional Service Agreement with Rhythm Engineering to Provide Maintenance Services for the Fairfield Adaptive System Traffic Signal Project
Funding Source: $160,000; AB1600 Streets Fund
Contact: Ryan Panganiban, (707) 428-7017
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt resolution.
STATEMENT OF ISSUE
The Fairfield Adaptive System Traffic Signal Project (Project; CPW070002) implemented advanced traffic signal technology along key arterial corridors within the City of Fairfield. The system requires specialized software, technical support, and hardware warranty to ensure continued optimal performance. Staff recommend the City Council authorize the city manager to execute a professional services agreement with Rhythm Engineering to provide ongoing maintenance and support services for the Project.
DISCUSSION
On August 15, 2023, the council adopted Resolution No. 2023 -212, approving the plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc for t he Project . Work included the installation of adaptive traffic signal control system equi pment at 16 intersections along Travis Boulevard and Texas Street, two of the City’s highest-volume arterial corridors. The adaptive system utilizes real -time traffic data to optimize signal timing, reduce congestion, and improve traffic flow. These improv ements enhance mobility, reduce travel delays, and improve overall roadway efficiency for residents and commuters.
On April 1, 2025, the council approved the Project as complete through Resolution No. 2025-49.
This Project represents a significant investment in modernizing the City’s traffic signal infrastructure. The adaptive system incorporates advanced and proprietary hardware and software components that require specialized knowledge for proper operation, maintenance, and troubles hooting. Due to the proprietary nature of the system, maintenance and support services must be performed by the manufacturer or individuals authorized and certified by the manufacturer.
To ensure the system continues to operate as intended and to protect the City’s investment, ongoing maintenance and technical support from a qualified provider is necessary. Without proper maintenance, the system may not function at optimal levels, potentially resulting in increased congestion, reduced system reliability, and diminished operational benefits.
Rhythm Engineering, the manufacturer and provider of the adaptive traffic signal system installed as part of the Project, can provide the required maintenance services. Their familiarity with the system’s proprietary hardware and software allows them to efficiently diagnose issues, perform updates, and ensure system performance remains optimized.
The proposed scope of services includes:
Software and technical support services for a period of four years Hardware maintenance services for a period of three years
Engaging Rhythm Engineering will ensure continuity of service, minimize system downtime, and maintain the operational benefits achieved through the Project.
The total cost for the proposed maintenance services is $160,000. This includes four years of software and technical support services and three years of hardware warranty. Staff have determined the cost to be fair and reasonable based on the specialized nature of the system and the manufacturer’s expertise.
Staff recommend including additional budget to account for potential emergency repairs at critical intersections, including the Travis Boulevard and I-80 interchange. This location is a high- volume, regionally significant intersection shared with Caltrans, where any system malfunction can result in traffic congestion and safety concerns. In the event of a failure, expedited diagnostic and repair services may be required to restore operations as quickly as possible. The additional budget ensures the City can respond immediately to such emergencies without delay, maintain coordination with Caltrans, and minimize disruption to the traveling public.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The total authorization for the professional service agreement with Rhythm Engineering for maintenance services will be $176,000 which is the total amount plus a 10% management reserve ($160,000 total amount + $16,000 management reserve). Funding for the first four years of support for the Project is captured in the AB 1600 Streets Fund (Fund 261; Project No.
CPW070002). The on-going support after the initial four years will be included in the Operating Budget.
PUBLIC CONTACT/ADVISORY BODY RECOMMENDATION
N/A
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
The council may elect not to approve the agreement and direct staff to pursue alternative maintenance options. However, given the specialized and proprietary nature of the adaptive traffic signal system, alternative providers may not have the necessary expertis e to effectively maintain the system. Additionally, relying solely on City staff may result in reduced system performance, increased downtime, and potential loss of operational benefits achieved through the Project.
COORDINATED WITH
N/A
STAFF CONTACT
Phil Layoso, Assistant Engineer
(707) 428-7505
[email protected]
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1: Proposed Resolution
Attachment 2: Proposed Agreement