135645344v.2

The Fort Worth Transportation Authority operating as (“Trinity Metro”) outlines the following schedule:

RFP Release Date: March 19, 2026

Proposal Submission Deadline: April 2, 2026

REVIEW THE FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS IN SECTION 2

The Fort Worth Transportation Authority, operating as Trinity Metro, is a regional transportation authority of the State of Texas, created pursuant to Chapter 452 of the Texas Transportation Code and confirmed by a public referendum on November 8, 1983. Trinity Metro provides public transportation services within the city limits of Fort Worth, Forest Hill, and River Oaks. Such services include fixed bus routes, mobility impaired transportation service (Paratransit services), carpool/vanpool services, ON- DEMAND and commuter rail (operating as TEXRail and Trinity Railway Express (TRE)). A one-half of one percent ($.0050) sales tax is dedicated to supporting Trinity Metro’s public transportation program. Trinity Metro is also the recipient of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) capital grants and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality grants.

Trinity Metro is governed by an eleven-member Board of appointed officials. Eight Board members are appointed by the Fort Worth City Council and 3 Board members are appointed by the Tarrant County Commissioners Court, in accordance with Subchapter N., Sec. 452.562 (c) – (f) of the Transportation Code. The Board sets policy through standing and ad hoc committees, and establishes broad business goals and policies for management. The President & Chief Executive Officer reports to the Board, and is responsible for implementation of Board policies and day-to-day operations of Trinity Metro.

This Request for Proposal (RFP) neither creates nor implies any obligation on the part of the Trinity Metro to award a contract or to pay any costs incurred in the preparation or submittal of any Proposal.

Trinity Metro 801 Grove Street

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

TIRE LEASING SERVICES

RFP #26-T024

RFP 26-T024

Tire Leasing Services

Table of Contents Section 1 Minimum Requirements

Section 2 Schedule of Events

Section 3 Instructions to Proposers

Section 4 Evaluation Criteria

Section 5 Scope of Work

Section 6 Special Provisions

Section 7 Safety, Security and Emergency Requirements

Section 8 Attachments and Forms

F1 – ATTACHMENTS AND AMENDMENTS

F2 – CERTIFICATION OF CONTRACTOR REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION,

AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS

F3 – CONFLICT OF INTEREST ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CERTIFICATION

F4 – CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING

F5 – BUSINESS QUESTIONNAIRE

F6 – LIST OF REFERENCES FOR SIMILAR PROJECTS

F7 – AFFIDAVIT OF NON-COLLUSION

F8 – PROHIBITION OF CONTRACTS WITH COMPANIES BOYCOTTING ISRAEL

F9 – TRINITY METRO SAFETY, SECURITY AND EMERGENCY REQUIREMENTS

F10 – BASE PRICE PROPOSAL

OFFER AND CONTRACT SIGNATURE FORM

ATTACHMENT A

Section 1 Minimum Requirements

NAME FORM DESCRIPTION

FORM

NUMBER

SUBMIT

WITH

OFFER?

Cover Page

Solicitation Number, Title, Due Date None YES ☐

Section 2 Schedule of Events None

Section 3 Instruction to Proposers None

Section 4 Evaluation and Response None

Section 5 Scope of Work None

Section 6 Special Provisions None

Section 7 Federal Contract and Other Requirements None

Section 8 Trinity Metro Safety, Security, and Emergency None

Section 9 Attachments and Amendments F1 YES ☐

Certification of Contractor Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

F2 YES ☐

Conflict of Interest Acknowledgement and Certification F3 YES ☐

Certification of Compliance with Restriction on Lobbying F4 YES ☐

Business Questionnaire & List of References F5 YES ☐

List of References for Similar Projects F6 YES ☐

Affidavit of Non-Collusion F7 YES ☐

Prohibition of Contracts with Companies Boycotting Israel F8 YES ☐

Trinity Metro Safety, Security, and Emergency F9 YES ☐

Base Price Proposal F10 YES ☐

Offer and Contract Signature YES ☐

Attachment A YES ☐

NOTE: FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL REQUESTED ITEMS ABOVE, PROPERLY COMPLETED,

CAN BE

CAUSE FOR REJECTION OF YOUR FIRM’S SUBMITTAL!!!

Section 2 Schedule of Events

EVENTS DATE TIME

RFP Release Date March 19, 2026 1:00 PM CST

Deadline for Submission of Written Questions (1) March 27, 2026 5:00 PM CST

Proposal Submission Deadline April 2, 2026 2:00 PM CST

Receipt of Proposals Location: Virtual - Microsoft TEAMS

April 2, 2026 3:00 PM CST

Contract Executed (2) April, 2026

Contract Effective Date May 1, 2026

(1) Questions will be received in writing by e-mail. No questions will be answered verbally.

(2) Trinity Metro reserves the right to change the contract execution date.

Section 3 Instructions to Proposers

3.1 Downloading RFP and Submission of Proposals

RFP documents can be downloaded from Trinity Metro’s website and the Proposals can be submitted electronically on Bonfire or in hard copy to the address listed below.

https://www.procuretm.org/procurements

A person or firm submitting a proposal in response to this RFP is a “Proposer.” A Proposer who enters into a Contract under this RFP is referred to as “Contractor.” Sealed proposals must be delivered by the date and time outlined in the Schedule of Events in Section 2. Proposers shall submit one original, one copy, and all of the required Proposal documents. All Proposal documents shall be in a sealed package, addressed as shown below, bearing the Proposer’s name and address and clearly marked as follows:

Trinity Metro Attn: PROCUREMENT 801 Grove Street Fort Worth, TX 76102 RFP 26-T024 Tire Leasing Services

Proposers can also submit proposals electronically using the Trinity Metro electronic bidding portal, Bonfire, at:

https://ridetm.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

All proposals, electronic or hard copy, must be submitted by the date stated in the schedule of events. It is the sole responsibility of the Proposer to ensure timely delivery of the proposal. Trinity Metro will not be responsible for failure of service on the part of the U.S. Post Office, courier services, electronic difficulties, or any other form of delivery service chosen by Respondent.

Proposals arriving late for any reason will not be accepted.

3.2 For uniformity, all Proposers must submit information in the order and format requested in this RFP. Failure to do so may cause the proposal to be deemed nonresponsive to the RFP. Information requested in the RFP that the Proposer deems privileged and confidential may be submitted in a separate envelope marked “Privileged and Confidential Information.” Trinity Metro will use its best efforts to protect such information from disclosure to the extent allowable by law. There will be no release of information until (a) the selection process is complete and a Contract has been executed or (b) Trinity Metro has formally terminated this procurement.

Format of the Response

a. Responses are limited to a maximum of 30 pages. A single side equals a single page. Cover letter and appendices, such as resumes and required forms, do not count toward the page limit.

b. Responses should be clear, concise, and complete. Format should be submitted using 8 ½” x 11” portrait format. The minimum font size used shall be 11 font. Illustrations, if required, https://www.procuretm.org/procurements https://ridetm.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities may be submitted on 11” x 17” sheets. 11” x 17” sized pages will count as two pages toward the maximum page limit.

c. For a proposal submitted in hard copy format, each of the sections listed below should be tabbed/labeled 1, 2, 3, etc. The tabbed dividers do not count toward the overall page count and should not contain material that will be scored. If proposals are submitted electronically, you may add a sheet to divide each section labeled as referenced above. The statement of qualifications should be organized in the same sequence as noted in the table below to expedite the evaluation:

1. Cover Letter. Provide a cover letter summarizing the qualifications of your firm/team. The letter shall be signed by an authorized representative of the firm. The cover letter is limited to a maximum of two pages and does not count against the 30-page limit of the Response.

2. Address the requirements included in Section 4:

a. Cover Letter

b. Qualifications, Experience & Staffing

c. Technical Approach & Methodology

d. Reporting, Performance Metrics & Communication

e. Data Security, Compliance & Risk Management

f. Pricing and Cost Effectiveness

g. Section 8 Attachments and Forms (F1-F11), Order and Contract Signature, Attachment identified in (Section 1) Minimum Requirements

* Please submit your most recent audited Financial Statement. The most qualified proposer will be required to submit their previously audited overhead rate. If you are mailing in or dropping off your proposal in person, please ensure that this information is included in a separate sealed envelope.

3.3 Exceptions to Any Portion of the Solicitation Requirements All exceptions, conditions, and limitations (collectively, “exceptions”) taken to or imposed on the terms and conditions of the RFP (including, without limitation, any of its attachments or other parts of the RFP) shall be clearly identified and submitted with Proposer’s proposal. Each exception shall specifically reference each paragraph(s) and/or specific part(s) of the RFP to which the exception is taken. Proposer shall provide rationale in support of the exception and fully explain its impact, if any, on its performance of or obligations under the procurement.

Proposers are cautioned to limit exceptions. In Trinity Metro’s sole and absolute judgment, exceptions may be determined to be so fundamental as to cause rejection of the proposal for not responding to the requirements of the RFP.

All exceptions will be considered during the evaluation process. Exceptions made after Contract award may result in proposal being rejected.

3.4 Basis for Contract Negotiation

A contract, if any, awarded under this RFP is defined herein as “the Contract” or “this Contract.”

The terms, conditions, representations, warranties, and other provisions of this RFP will be incorporated into and will form the bulk of the Contract, except to the extent otherwise expressly confirmed in writing signed by Trinity Metro. Thus, this RFP and the Proposer’s proposal shall be used as the basis for contract negotiation. The RFP does not commit Trinity Metro to procure or award any contract for the scope of work described herein.

process, and will address particular questions that may occur as a result of review of this RFP.

3.5 Rejection and Selection of Proposals; Modification of the RFP

1. Trinity Metro reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

2. If a Contract is awarded, the selection of the proposal and Proposer shall conform to the requirements of applicable law and shall, in Trinity Metro’s sole discretion, be in the best interests of Trinity Metro.

3. Trinity Metro reserves the right to:

a. Amend, modify, or withdraw this RFP;

b. Revise any requirements under this RFP;

c. Require supplemental statements of information from any Proposer;

d. Extend the deadline for submission of responses hereto;

e. Negotiate or hold discussions with any Proposer to correct insufficient responses that do not completely conform to the instructions contained herein;

f. Waive any nonconformity with this RFP;

g. Cancel, in whole or in part, this RFP if Trinity Metro deems it is in its best interest to do so;

h. Request additional information or clarification of information provided in the proposal without changing the terms of the RFP; and

i. Waive any portion of the selection process in order to accelerate the negotiation of a Contract with a Proposer that meets the requirements under applicable law and this RFP for an award.

Trinity Metro may exercise the foregoing rights at any time without notice and without liability to any Proposer or any other party for expenses incurred in the preparation of proposals or otherwise. Proposals will be prepared at the sole cost and expense of the Proposer.

4. Nothing stated at any time, by any representative of Trinity Metro, will effect a change in, or constitute an addition to, this RFP unless confirmed in writing through an Addenda issued by Trinity Metro to this RFP.

5. The Proposer agrees to keep confidential its response and any information received from Trinity Metro.

6. All information submitted in response to the RFP shall become the property of Trinity Metro, and as such, may be subject to public review as public records.

7. Proposer acknowledges and agrees that Trinity Metro will not be liable for any costs, expenses, losses, damages (including damages for loss of anticipated profit), or liabilities incurred by the Proposer or any member thereof as a result of, or arising out of it submitting a proposal, negotiating changes to such proposal, or Trinity Metro’s acceptance or non-acceptance of the proposal.

8. Trinity Metro shall control the release of all public information concerning the procurement under this RFP, including selection announcements and Contract awards. Those desiring to release information to the public must receive prior written approval from an authorized representative of Trinity Metro.

9. Neither Trinity Metro nor any of its officers, agents, consultants, or employees shall be responsible for the accuracy of any information provided as part of this RFP (including appendices). All Proposers are encouraged to independently verify the accuracy of any information provided. The use of this information in the preparation of a proposal is at the sole risk of the Proposer.

10. The Proposer shall not collude in any manner or engage in any practices with any other

Proposer(s), which may restrict or eliminate competition or otherwise restrain trade.

Violation of this instruction will cause Trinity Metro to reject the Proposer’s submittal. This prohibition is not intended to preclude joint ventures or subcontracts.

11. All proposals must be the original work product of the Proposer. The copying, paraphrasing, or other use of substantial portions of the work product of another Proposer is not permitted.

Failure to adhere to this instruction will cause Trinity Metro to reject the proposal. The successful Proposer will be required to enter into Contract by signature on separate Contract documents, which will be prepared by Trinity Metro from information in the RFP and the successful Proposer’s proposal.

12. In accordance with Article 8-103 of Trinity Metro’s Procurement Policy, “All protests relating to advertising of solicitation notices, alleged improprieties or ambiguities in solicitation documents, deadlines, bid openings or awards, and all other solicitation, bid or award-related procedures or actions must be made in writing and submitted to the President/CEO, or designee, within ten (10) business days of (1) the bid opening for a construction contract or (2) date of award for other types of contracts.”

3.6 Response to Communications and Request for Clarification

It is the responsibility of the proposer to examine the entire RFP package and seek clarification of any scope of work, specification item, requirement, or any other matter that it finds unclear.

Furthermore, the Proposer must check the proposal for accuracy before submission. All requests for clarifications or changes shall be submitted in writing in time to be received in accordance with the Schedule of Events outlined in Section 2.

Trinity Metro will not respond to oral requests. Only written requests for questions and/or clarifications, will be acceptable (email and/or email attachments will be accepted). All questions and/or clarifications requests shall be sent to the attention as identified below. Only written responses from Trinity Metro in the form of addenda to this RFP shall be official, and all other forms of communication with any officer, employee or agent of Trinity Metro shall not be binding.

All questions and/or clarifications and/or request for a change to any of the specifications shall be fully supported with technical data, test results, or other pertinent information evidencing that the exception will result in a condition equal to or better than that required by the RFP, without substantial increase in cost or time requirements. Any responses to such written requests shall be provided by Trinity Metro in the form of an addendum.

All questions or request for clarifications regarding the services required shall be submitted in writing and/or email (no phone inquiries will be accepted) and addressed to:

Anthony Brown, Contract Administrator Trinity Metro 801 Grove Street Fort Worth, Texas 76102 E-mail: contractmgmt@ridetm.org

Proposers shall not contact members of the Evaluation Committee or Board of Directors concerning this RFP. Any proposers violating this provision may be disqualified from consideration in this RFP.

3.7 Addenda and Attachments to RFP

This RFP has been posted on Trinity Metro’s website and Trinity Metro’s electronic bidding portal, Bonfire, for your convenience. Any attachments, addendums, clarifications or further instructions to Proposers, whether as a result of questions raised by Proposers or matters initiated by Trinity Metro will also be posted when issued. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to ensure that the entire RFP package, in its latest version, is reviewed prior to submittal of a proposal.

3.8 Contract Award

Trinity Metro reserves the right for any reason or no stated reason to postpone, accept, or reject any and/or all proposals, to waive any irregularities in proposals received, and award the Contract(s) in accordance with applicable law and this RFP. Trinity Metro reserves the right to make multiple awards.

Trinity Metro shall consider all elements entering into the determination of the responsiveness of the proposal and the responsibility of the Proposer. Any proposal which is incomplete, conditional, obscure, or which contains additions not called for or irregularities of any kind, may be cause for rejection of the Proposal.

The Contract may be awarded within 90 calendar days from the date upon which proposals were received or such other date as is specified in the Schedule of Events above in this RFP. No award shall be made for a proposal Trinity Metro determines to be non-responsive or to a Proposer Trinity Metro determines to be not responsible.

If a single proposal is received, Trinity Metro will conduct a price and/or cost analysis of the proposal. A price analysis is the process of examining and evaluating a price submitted without examining in detail the separate cost elements and the profit included in the cost proposal. A price analysis through comparison to other similar procurements shall be based upon an established or competitive price of the elements used in the comparison. The comparison shall be made to a purchase of similar quantity and involving similar specifications. Where a difference exists, a detailed analysis shall be made of this difference and costs associated thereto. Trinity Metro has the right to enter into a negotiated procurement should only a single proposal be received.

mailto:contractmgmt@ridetm.org

Where it is impossible to obtain a valid price analysis, it may be necessary for Trinity Metro to conduct a cost analysis of the proposal price.

3.9 Non-Collusion Affidavit

Proposer shall submit, with its proposal, an affidavit stating that neither Proposer nor its agents, nor any other party on its behalf, has paid or agreed to pay, directly or indirectly, any person, firm, or corporation, any money or valuable consideration for assistance in procuring or attempting to procure the Contract that may result from this RFP, and further agrees that no such money or consideration will be hereafter paid. This affidavit shall be on the form provided by Trinity Metro, which is made a part of this RFP.

3.10 Proposer’s Texas Government Code Certifications

Pursuant to the provisions of the Texas Government Code cited below, Proposer represents, warrants, and affirms the following, and Proposer covenants that if circumstances relevant to any of the following change during the term of a contract that may be awarded to Proposer under this RFP, Proposer will promptly notify Trinity Metro of such change.

1. Sec. 2252.152. Proposer is not engaged in business with Iran, Sudan, or a foreign terrorist organization, as prohibited by Section 2252.152 of the Texas Government Code, and Proposer is not identified on the list created by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts as a company known to have contracts with or provide supplies or services to Iran, Sudan, or a foreign terrorist organization.

2. Sec. 2271.002. Either (a) Proposer does not and will not for the duration of the Contract boycott Israel or (b) the verification required by Section 2271.002 of the Texas Government Code does not apply to this procurement.

3. Chapter 2274. Either (a) Proposer does not and will not for the duration of the Contract, have a practice, policy, guidance, or directive that discriminates against a firearm entity or firearm trade association or (b) the verification required by Section 2274.002 of the Texas Government Code does not apply to this procurement.

4. Section 2276.002. Either (a) Proposer does not and will not for the duration of the Contract boycott energy companies or (b) the verification required by Section 2276.002 of the Texas Government Code does not apply to this Agreement.

5. Section 2252.908 If Section 2252.908 of the Texas Government Code applies to this procurement, and if Proposer is awarded a Contract, Proposer will submit to Trinity Metro a Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) before the execution of the Contract. Refer to the information at the Texas Ethics Commission’s website for instructions on registering and completing Form 1295.

3.11 Force Majeure

1. Definition: An Event of Force Majeure is defined as acts of God; earthquake, unusually severe weather, flood and any other natural disaster; civil disturbance, strikes and labor disputes; fires and explosions; war and other hostilities; embargo; or failure of third parties, including suppliers or subcontractors, to perform their obligations to the Contractor due to a force majeure event described above.

2. Economic hardship, changes in market conditions, or insufficient funds do not constitute an

Event of Force Majeure, and an Event of Force Majeure does not excuse an obligation to make a payment required under this Contract.

3. If Contractor cannot perform some of its obligations due to an Event of Force Majeure, it must nevertheless continuously and diligently carry out and complete all of its obligations not prevented by the Event of Force Majeure.

4. Notice of Delay. If Contractor is delayed in the performance of the Services due to an Event of Force Majeure or otherwise, Contractor must in a prompt manner upon receiving knowledge of such delay give written notice thereof to Trinity Metro and furnish Trinity Metro information concerning the cause of the delay and its approximate anticipated length and demonstrating, if applicable, that the delay is due to an Event of Force Majeure.

5. Sole Relief. If an Event of Force Majeure occurs, provided Contractor has complied with all applicable notice requirements regarding a request for relief under this section, Contractor is excused from performance of its obligations under this Contract, but only for the time and to the extent that such performance is actually prevented by the Event of Force Majeure.

When Contractor is able to resume performance of its obligations, it shall immediately give

Trinity Metro written notice to that effect and promptly resume performance under this

Contract. The relief offered by this Force Majeure provision is the exclusive remedy available to Contractor with respect to an Event of Force Majeure, and no claim for damages shall be made by either party for delays resulting from an Event of Force Majeure.

6. Continuing Delays. Trinity Metro may terminate this Contract if: (a) Contractor’s failure to perform under this Contract due to an Event of Force Majeure impairs the material benefits of this Contract to Trinity Metro; and (b) Contractor does not resume performance in accordance with this Contract within ten (10) business days following Trinity Metro’s giving notice to Contractor of Trinity Metro’s intent to terminate this Contract.

Section 4 Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated by a selection committee of individuals from TRINITY METRO and other departments. TRINITY METRO intends to evaluate the proposals generally in accordance with the criteria listed below. TRINITY METRO may invite proposers to make a presentation and be interviewed by the committee as part of the selection process. Please ensure that your proposal addresses each one of the criteria listed below. Contractors’ qualifications and experience shall be evaluated using the following criteria:

Max Points

A. Technical Qualifications & Experience

- Evaluation of the firm’s history managing transit tire lease programs of similar scale. Assessment of the team’s expertise in FTA-compliant reporting, and large-fleet tire maintenance.

B. Inventory & Service Management

- Assessment of the proposer’s ability to maintain adequate local inventory, their plan for performing annual physical inventories, and their strategy for managing the "run-out" option at contract termination.

C. Technical Approach & Methodology

- Evaluation of the proposed tire brands/models for durability and safety across Trinity Metro's diverse fleet (Transit, On-Demand, and Staff). Review of the plan for tracking mileage data and ensuring timely tire replacements, and the proposer’s committed strategy for 100% tire recycling in lieu of landfill disposal.

D. Pricing and Cost Effectiveness

- Clear labor and equipment rates

- Realistic resource estimates

- Pricing most advantageous to Trinity Metro

E. Required Forms and Certifications Pass / Fail

Total Points – Total Pages (not including resumes, references, and forms)

Section 5 Scope of Work

General Trinity Metro is seeking proposals from qualified firms for a five (5)-year agreement for the supply and delivery of tires as outlined in the specification to support Trinity Metro’s mission to provide outstanding and excellent transportation services.

Throughout these specifications, all described features, and other requirements, are the minimum levels acceptable to Trinity Metro. Any minimum requirement may be exceeded by a proposer if it will enhance the quality and functional value of the equipment. Any failure to equal a minimum may cause rejection of a proposal.

Introduction The following specification describes minimum requirements for a tire leasing contract for The Fort Worth Transportation Authority (Trinity Metro), at 1600 East Lancaster, Fort Worth, Texas 76102. Any proposer may meet or exceed the minimum specifications; however, failure to meet the minimums will result in the proposal being rejected. Partial contracts will not be awarded.

Proposals will be either rejected or accepted in whole. If the successful proposer is other than the present supplier, Trinity Metro shall run-out existing inventory.

Proposer Qualifications To qualify under this specification, the proposer must be regularly engaged in the operation of a vehicle tire mileage leasing business, and must furnish with the proposal, a list of city transit properties presently and/or recently under a tire lease contract. Furthermore, the proposer must produce evidence of annual mileage equal to that experienced by Trinity Metro. Documentation of average miles on removed tires at other city transit properties must be submitted with the proposal. Proposer must also be regularly engaged in the development and testing of mileage tires, and must show evidence of having tire testing laboratories, proving grounds, and test tracks.

1. Specification Deviations by the Proposer

Any deviation from this specification must be noted in detail and submitted in writing with the proposal. Completed specifications should be attached for any substitutions offered, or when amplifications are desirable or necessary. The absence of the specifications deviation statement and accompanying specifications will hold the proposer strictly accountable to the specifications as written herein. Failure to submit this document of specification deviation, if applicable, shall be grounds for rejection of the items when offered for delivery.

If specifications or descriptive papers are submitted with proposal, the proposer's name should be clearly shown on each document.

The specifications, as listed herein, represent our preference in equipment, however, we are fully cognizant that no two pieces of equipment, from different manufacturers, are the same.

Therefore, if your equipment is similar in size, function, quality, and operation, but some of the specifications do not completely coincide with ours, the equipment may be considered for performance standards. Please list your exceptions and explanations separately. It is not Trinity

Metro’s intention to write specifications for a piece of equipment or material for which only one manufacturer can submit a proposal.

2. Fleet Mix

Trinity Metro’s fleet, beginning Year One of this contract, will be comprised of the following tires:

See Attachment Pages.

Tire size may increase and/or decrease, as business demands, and Trinity Metro makes no guarantees in regard to fleet size or number of vehicles.

If additional vehicles are purchased during the contract term, Trinity Metro will arrange to have such vehicles equipped with mileage tires furnished by the contractor, and those tires will be included in the contract. If Trinity Metro must accept OEM tires, then these tires will be used until worn-out, and not included in the contract.

Service vehicles and staff car tires are included in this contract specification.

3. TOTAL ESTIMATED LEASE MILES YEAR 1 - 6,444,408

The current list of vehicles is subject to change as vehicles are retired and more like-type vehicles are purchased. All mileage is subject to increase or decrease depending on scheduling of routes and use of vehicles.

4. TREAD DEPTH REQUIREMENTS

Tires shall have new tread depth of the following minimums:

23/32 Original tread

8/32 Under tread

5. TIRE FEATURES

Recapped tires are not acceptable.

All tires must be capable of being re-grooved. Re-grooved tires will be used only on drive and tag axles. They are not acceptable for steering axle tires.

Each tire will have an individual ID number branded into its sidewall to facilitate tire location and mileage record keeping.

6. TIRE INVENTORY

The number of tires furnished by the proposer must be sufficient to keep all vehicles fully equipped. Spare tires, mounted on properly prepared wheels, will be kept at Trinity Metro garage for use in change-outs. Beginning in year 1, the reserve quantity shall not be less than the following at any time, see attached pages.

When there are not enough used spares for rear tires, new tires must be used to ensure that the above minimums are met at all times. These numbers are subject to change as the number of types of vehicles change each year.

7. SERVICE

Trinity Metro will supply, and maintain, suitable facilities for the storing and servicing of tires, and will permit the contractor's representatives to have access at all times necessary to carry out the terms of the contract.

Contractor and Trinity Metro will determine when tires furnished are permanently unfit for further service, and the contractor will furnish new replacement tires. Trinity Metro will not use tires, which, because of their condition, interfere unreasonably with the safe use and operation of its buses. All tires determined to be permanently unfit for further service will be returned to contractor promptly. Contractor will supply all necessary tools and equipment needed to perform tire and wheel maintenance including tire weights.

The contractor will provide at least two (2) full-time tire technician. The qualifications and experience level of the service person shall meet or exceed requirements of five years’ experience in wheel maintenance and bus tire service. Qualifications for the technician should be provided, listing any qualifications and experience. When the technician is absent or on vacation, the contractor will provide an equally qualified substitute employee for that time period. The contractor's tire technician shall be subject to the following:

1. Shall work hours deemed necessary to fulfill all duties, as driven by the demand of the business. Standard work hours for Trinity Metro are between 7 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for one technician and between 3:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. for the second one, Monday through Friday. Legal holidays are not included for work hours.

2. At least twice monthly, will check tire pressures on each vehicle.

3. Shall perform a tire inventory on each vehicle quarterly.

4. Shall maintain tire shop area and equipment in a clean, safe manner.

5. Shall keep all tire records updated, daily.

6. Shall perform wheel maintenance, cleaning and inspection, as described in the following section.

7. Present wage rate is based on Trinity Metro’s Mechanic B rate which starts at

30.47/hour for the first year and ends at year five at 35.27/hour.

8. Shall be subject to all rules and regulations concerning drug and alcohol abuse as outlined by U.S. Department of Transportation (49 CFR, Part 40) and Trinity Metro’s Substance Abuse Policy, as adopted by the Fort Worth Transportation Authority Board of Directors on September 15, 2010.

8. WHEEL MAINTENANCE

Wheel maintenance is a very important issue for Trinity Metro in order to assure the safety and appearance of our fleet. The contractor will be required to perform the following services for wheel maintenance:

1. Install a stationary wheel cleaner (hot-water blast) similar to present water pressure system, at Trinity Metro garage. The equipment shall be of sufficient size to accommodate a 22.5 wheel, or smaller. This unit must be capable of removing all dirt, grease, paint and rust in a reasonable amount of time (10-15 minutes working time). Equipment will be installed within 30 days after a contract is signed.

Cleaning solutions and processes must accommodate steel wheels and polished aluminum.

2. Tire technician shall clean, polish both sides (for aluminum wheels) and inspect each wheel before mounting a tire.

3. Wheels shall be inspected for adverse conditions, such as worn mounting holes, cracks, excessive corrosion, bent flanges, etc. Defective wheels will be removed from service and etched or defaced in a manner to ensure that the wheel cannot be placed back into service.

4. Wheels removed from vehicle will have all grease and dirt removed before re-grooving.

5. Prior to placing the tire in the ready rack, tire technician shall clean matting surfaces to bare metal and apply one light coat of primer paint. When aluminum wheels are used the technician shall clean and polish both sides of wheel prior to placing the wheel and tire in the ready rack.

6. All tires, new and re-grooved, shall be mounted on properly prepared and inspected wheels and balanced before placing in ready rack.

9. DAMAGE TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY

Contractor will hold Trinity Metro harmless against all claims, action, or cause of action, or damage arising out of the use of, or possession of, any tires furnished. The contractor will be responsible for damages that may arise from any manufacturing defects including irregularities in workmanship, materials, designs, and assembly processes. Contractor will also be responsible for damages arising from improper tire repair, improper mounting, or any other conditions over which the contractor has control.

10. TITLE TO TIRES

Title to all tires furnished to Trinity Metro shall remain at all times with the contractor.

11. FIRM, FIXED PRICE TIRE CONTRACT

Contractor will offer a fixed tire mile rate for each tire type. There will be no other rate adjustments under this option. Start-up cost, if any, should be identified and spread evenly between all five

(5) contract years.

12. MONTHLY SERVICE CHARGE

The monthly service charge shall be firm and the same for each year of the contract. A monthly service charge will be issued each month for servicing the Operator's tires. By mutual agreement, rates may be adjusted if:

1. Direct service personnel units or the number of service locations are increased or decreased.

2. Tire technician wages & benefits may be adjusted annually to equal Trinity

Metro’s current Mechanic II wages.

3. Operator's transit vehicles are not operating because of events beyond Operator's control that makes contractor's performance impossible or unnecessary. Rates may be suspended under these circumstances.

13. BONUS ACCOUNTING

Bonus credit shall be established for each type/size of tire. The mileage at which credit is received shall be a consideration in the evaluation process.

14. RECORD KEEPING/REPORTS

Each time a tire is changed on a vehicle, whether by the contractor or by Trinity Metro, the person making the change will record the date, vehicle number, wheel position, and brand number of the tire removed, and brand number of the tire installed. These records will be delivered to the contractor, for use in updating records.

Contractor will compile from tire records a unique tire history for each tire, and the record will include any pre-existing tires under a previous lease contract with Trinity Metro. Each tire history record will indicate size, type, and brand number. A cumulative history will be included, indicating the date and bus mileage reading for each installation on, and removal from, each bus and wheel position. When any tire is permanently removed from service for any reason, a copy of the complete tire history record, with a computation of its total accumulated life mileage, and the date of, and reason for removal from service, will be furnished to Trinity Metro, monthly.

Contractor will maintain a record for each bus, showing for each tire installation on that bus, the date of installation, wheel position, brand number, size, and manufacturer of the tire installed.

Trinity Metro shall receive a monthly printout of these records.

An inventory of all pre-existing leased tires will be taken by the proposer within sixty (60) days of the commencement of the contract, to include brand number and location of each tire. A copy of the inventory will be supplied to Trinity Metro upon completion. The inventory will be utilized by the contractor for compiling history.

A physical inventory of all leased tires will be taken yearly by the contractor, and a copy will be submitted to Trinity Metro.

Tire loss reports will be submitted quarterly on monthly counts and yearly inventories.

Commencement mileage readings for all buses will be furnished by Trinity Metro.

15. TERM OF CONTRACT AND DISPOSITION OF TIRES AT TERMINATION

Depending on the actual contract award date, the term of the contract shall be for five (5) years, from on/about May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2031.

At the termination date, unless Trinity Metro and the contractor enter into a new mileage contract to become effective on the termination date, Trinity Metro will exercise the "run out" option.

16. SALE OR DISPOSITION OF TIRES OR BUSES

If during the term of the contract Trinity Metro sells or disposes of any of its buses equipped with tires supplied by the contractor, or if Trinity Metro discontinues its business, or discontinues the use of buses, Trinity Metro will purchase each tire, including spares, at the basic rates and bonus rate (if applicable) set out in the contract.

17. CONTRACT CANCELLATION

Trinity Metro shall reserve the right to cancel the contract under the following conditions:

1. Sixty (60) days written notice.

2. If the contractor fails to provide adequate service.

3. If the contractor does not stock an adequate amount of inventory, including spares.

4. Changes in current operating policies and rules that would require a change in tire leasing policies.

18. TIRE DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposal of all scrap tires resulting from this contract. The Contractor explicitly agrees that all scrap tires shall be sent to a certified recycling facility for processing (e.g., tire-derived fuel, rubberized asphalt, or civil engineering applications) rather than being disposed of in a landfill. The Contractor shall provide Trinity Metro with documentation or "certificates of recycling" upon request to verify compliance with this requirement.

Section 6 Special Provisions

6.1 Contract Award

This will be a Fixed-Fee Contract. The contract period will be for five (5) years. Delivery and performance shall be made only as authorized after funding appropriations and program approval have been granted by Trinity Metro’s Board of Directors. If the Contract is for a term of more than one (1) year, and if necessary, funding appropriation/program approval is not granted, the Contract will be canceled for all unfunded or unapproved periods.

6.2 Expenses & Invoicing

Contractor shall submit monthly invoices for Services delivered, completed and accepted, via email to Trinity Metro’s Accounts Payable department at accountspayable@ridetm.org and copy the Department Representative listed under Notices in the contract. The invoice will consist of the contract number, purchase order number, line-item number, item description, quantity, units, unit price, and total line-item amount. Each invoice shall also include supporting documentation for all eligible expenditures.

Approved invoices amounts will be paid net 30 days from the invoice date. Invoice payments will be made either by check or via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to Contractor’s designated banking institution. EFT payments are Trinity Metro’s desired method of payment. Appropriate Vendor and EFT forms will be provided to Contractor at time of execution of this agreement.

6.3 Selection Procedure

1. Proposals received after date and time specified in Section 2 are not eligible and shall not be considered for award of the Contract.

2. An Evaluation Committee shall evaluate each proposal that was submitted on time and the evaluation shall be based on the criteria listed in Section 4. The sum total points scored on both qualifications and price will be considered in award of a contract.

Following this initial evaluation, the Evaluation Committee may make a recommendation to the Board of Director(s) concerning award of contract without further discussion with Proposers. The top-rated Proposers may be asked to make an oral presentation to the evaluation team for the purpose of further clarification and evaluation of their proposals.

3. Oral presentations, if required, shall be conducted to solicit information to enable the Evaluation Committee to evaluate the capability of the applicable Proposer regarding the desired goods and/or services. If Trinity Metro notifies a Proposer that an oral presentation is required, Trinity Metro shall inform the Proposer of the schedule, order and procedure for the presentation, including its content, time limits, identity of the presenters, and use of handouts and visual aids. Trinity Metro may tape record and/or videotape any presentation.

4. If demonstrations are scheduled, the representatives of the Proposer and of its pertinent necessary proposed subcontractors or subconsultants shall be present at the demonstration. During the demonstration, the Evaluation Committee may advise the Proposer of deficiencies in the process and shall allow the Proposer to satisfy the requirements, questions, or concerns by submitting an amended final proposal. The Proposer may decide not to modify its proposal and may inform the Evaluation Committee that the proposal is firm and final.

mailto:accountspayable@ridetm.org

5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Trinity Metro at its sole option may elect to forego demonstration presentations. Consequently, all proposals shall be comprehensive and clear. No Proposer shall rely upon the opportunity to present additional or clarifying information at a later time.

6. The Evaluation Committee shall not disclose any information included in a proposing firm's Proposal Documentation to another firm, and shall not disclose any information for the purpose of bringing one firm's Proposal Documentation up to that of a competitor's Proposal Documentation.

7. If amended final proposals are accepted, the Evaluation Committee shall reevaluate each of the final proposals, including those deemed final at a demonstration, if any. Final proposals shall be evaluated on the same criteria used in the first evaluation.

8. The Evaluation Committee may recommend the top ranked Proposer to the Board of Director(s), who shall make the final selection.

9. Award of contract shall be made to the responsive, responsible Proposer whose proposal is determined to provide the best value to Trinity Metro based on the evaluation criteria set forth in Section 4.

6.4 Open Records

All proposals become the property of Trinity Metro and are subject to the Texas Public Information Act (PIA). Proposers must familiarize themselves with the provisions of the PIA. In no event shall Trinity Metro, or any of its agents, representatives, proposers, directors, officers, or employees be liable to a Proposer for the disclosure of all or any portion of a proposal. If Trinity Metro receives a request for public disclosure of all or any portion of a proposal, Trinity Metro will endeavor to notify the Proposer of the request. If a Proposer has special concerns about information which it desires to make available to Trinity Metro but which it believes constitutes a trade secret, proprietary information or other information excepted from disclosure, it shall identify those portions of its proposal by clearly and prominently marking it “CONFIDENTIAL.” The basis of the claim of confidentiality shall be stated in the proposal adjacent to the marked information. Blanket statements regarding the confidentiality of information may not be sufficient to protect the confidentiality of information submitted. A Proposer is encouraged to seek counsel regarding any information it seeks to keep confidential.

In no event shall any of Trinity Metro’s directors, employees, administrator, consultants, or agents be liable for the disclosure of any materials or information submitted in a Proposal.

6.5 Proposer’s Acknowledgement

By submitting a proposal, the Proposer unequivocally acknowledges that the Proposer has read and fully understands this RFP, and that the Proposer has asked questions and received satisfactory answers from Trinity Metro regarding any provisions of this RFP with regard to which the Proposer desires clarification.

6.6 Incorporation of Proposer’s Proposal

1. Trinity Metro reserves the right to incorporate all or portions of the successful Proposer’s proposal including any revisions and supplements into the Contract by reference or in full.

2. If, after Contract award, it is discovered that changes were agreed to in writing during negotiations, but were not incorporated into the resulting Contract, such changes shall be considered administrative in nature and incorporated by unilateral modification at no change in the Contract cost or price, or other terms and conditions. To satisfy the contract requirements, Proposer shall adhere to the price and other terms accepted by

Trinity Metro.

3. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no portions of the proposal that conflict with, limit, impair, or otherwise diminish the benefits afforded to Trinity Metro under this RFP shall be deemed incorporated into the Contract only if such provisions are expressly approved by Trinity Metro in writing.

6.7. Insurance Requirements

The Contractor shall, at all times during the term of this Contract and extended terms thereof, provide and maintain the following types of insurance protecting the interests of Trinity Metro and the Contractor with limits of liability not less than those specified below.

1. Comprehensive Automobile Liability insurance or its equivalent, covering all owned, hired and non-owned vehicles used in connection with the work performed under this contract with combined single limits for bodily injury and property damage liability of not less than $1,000,000.

2. Commercial General Liability insurance or its equivalent, providing limits of not less than $2,000,000 for bodily injury and property damage per occurrence with a general aggregate of $2,000,000 and a product and completed operations aggregate of

$2,000,000. There shall not be any policy exclusions or limitations for the following:

Contractual Liability covering Contractor's obligations herein

Personal Injury Advertising Liability

Explosion, Collapse & Underground Property Damage Hazard

Medical Payments

Fire Damage Legal Liability

Broad Form Property Damage

Liability for Independent Contractors

3. Workers' Compensation Insurance or its equivalent, providing benefits comparable to those provided under the Workers' Compensation Act of the State of Texas and/or any other State or Federal law or laws applicable to the Contractor's employees performing work under this contract. Employer's Liability Insurance with limits of liability of not less than $1,000,000 each accident, $1,000,000 each employee for disease and $1,000,000 policy limit for disease. This insurance shall be endorsed with a Waiver of Subrogation Endorsement, waiving the carrier's right of recovery under subrogation or otherwise from Trinity Metro.

4. Certificates of Insurance - Before commencing execution of this contract, the Contractor shall mail Certificates of Insurance satisfactory to Trinity Metro (or, as and when Trinity Metro may direct, copies of the policies endorsements or actual insurance policies) at the address in Section 3 evidencing that insurance as required by paragraph (a), and all subparagraphs to (a) above, is in force, stating policy number dates of expiration and limits of liability thereunder.