163-05282025KidCushions-AS Announcement.docx

The document is a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education for a Kid Cushions/Engineered Wood Fiber procurement, solicitation number 163-05282025KidCushions-AS. The project involves furnishing and delivering 10,000 yards of engineered wood fiber to various sites within Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, with an initial contract term from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and potential options for two additional one-year renewals. Electronic bids will be accepted through the North Carolina Business Invitation Delivery System (NC BIDS), with the proposal opening scheduled for May 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. Vendors must register electronically to submit a bid, with the registration process potentially taking 3-5 days.

The procurement includes specific technical requirements mandating that the wood fiber meet ASTM standards for wheelchair accessibility, shock absorbency, and purity, with mandatory IPEMA certification. Delivery expectations include 4-6 truckloads per week, and all invoices will be processed through David Caldwell. The solicitation includes provisions for minority, women, and small business enterprise participation, requiring bidders to complete a utilization form demonstrating commitment to inclusive contracting practices. While no specific budget range is stated, bidders must provide comprehensive, all-inclusive pricing covering materials, delivery, and associated costs, with optional pricing for years two and three subject to mutual agreement and funding availability. The electronic submission process through NC BIDS indicates a preference for vendors with digital procurement capabilities and the ability to consistently deliver wood fiber across multiple sites in Mecklenburg County.