Intent to Single Source for Virtual Reality Pods, Training and Set up

Grant funding was approved for virtual reality (VR) de-escalation training in the amount of $160,000. The grant provides that the Tampa Police Department (TPD) intends to enhance training by incorporating de-escalation training modules and curriculum. Resolution 2024-1173 approved an agreement with Axon Enterprises (Axon) in which TPD will be receiving VR headsets for training. In order to carry out the VR training goals of the grant for VR de-escalation training, TPD has the opportunity to enhance the environment and technology to provide the VR training through Axon Training Pods which provide unique plug-and-play VR training solution designed for optimized use with Axon VR headsets and Axon training materials. TPD is requesting approval for standardization to allow for the purchase of two VR Axon Training Pods through specifically designated grant funding which will enable TPD to implement VR de-escalation training through a fully synchronized environment for training in accordance with the grant.