Notice of Proposed Buy America Waiver for a Radio Communications System

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) received a request for a waiver to permit the use of FTA funding to purchase a radio communication system that is non- compliant with the Buy America requirements. The request is from the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). KCATA is in the process of updating its current analog system with a digital voice system, compatible with its operating system. KCATA also plans to enter into a tri-party agreement with the City of Kansas City, Missouri, and the Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA) to install the radio system into the new streetcars. The new radio system will increase KCATA's systems capacity and allow KCSA to have a dedicated talk group on KCATA's system. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 5323(j)(3)(A), FTA is providing notice of the waiver request and seeks public comment before deciding whether to grant the request. If granted, the waiver only would apply to a one-time FTA-funded procurement by KCATA.