Real Estate Right of Way Acquisition Services

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is seeking qualified, ODOT‑prequalified consulting firms to provide comprehensive right‑of‑way (ROW) and real‑estate acquisition services for its upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects in the Columbus, Ohio corridor. The scope covers acquisition of easements, fee acquisitions, temporary and permanent ROW, and related real‑property activities for approximately 230 parcels, with most parcels valued under $15,000. Services must comply with Federal Transit Administration Small Starts requirements, the Uniform Relocation and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act, and ODOT real‑estate policies. The consultant will also support development of the Real Estate Acquisition Management Plan (RAMP) and may provide appraisal and contingency services, but will not handle title work, escrow, relocation assistance, or legal services beyond appraisal contingencies. COTA will handle payments to property owners and recording fees directly. • 230 parcels impacted (≈200 temporary easements, ≈100 fee acquisitions) • Majority of parcels valued under $15 k; limited permanent easements for utilities, sewer, sidewalk, storm‑water sites • Scope excludes title commitments, escrow, relocation assistance, legal representation, survey services, and utility relocations • Must be an ODOT‑prequalified consulting firm with capacity for surge volumes and compliance with FTA Small Starts and Uniform Act regulations • Anticipated ROW acquisition authorization late 2026/early 2027; work to be coordinated with COTA, municipalities, and ODOT