2026-2027 M7B LEXINGTON RESIDENCY NOTICE.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

1401 EAST BROAD STREET

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23219-2000

Stephen C. Brich, P.E.

Commissioner

VirginiaDOT.org

WE KEEP VIRGINIA MOVING

July 27, 2026

Prospective Snow and Ice Control Contractors, The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is pleased to offer the mandatory electronic M7B bidding site (Staunton District / Lexington Residency).

To submit a Snow Removal Agreement bid package, the electronic M7B URL is plow4va.vdot.virginia.gov

1. The Electronic Snow Removal Equipment Agreement and all applicable Attachments must be submitted as outlined in the following “Key Dates and Deadline” section.

2. A proper Insurance Certificate, with VDOT listed as an additional insured, and Declaration Page listing insured Equipment VIN #(s) must be submitted with the electronic agreement.

3. A current Vehicle Registration must be provided with the electronic agreement.

4. Equipment must be inspected, accepted and meet VDOT specifications as noted in the following “Key Dates and Deadline” section.

5. Any applicable Equipment rigging must be successfully completed as outlined in the following “Key Dates and Deadline” section.

6. If the Contractor is using VDOT provided equipment (hitch, plow, spreader, etc.), equipment must be picked up as outlined in the following ”Key Dates and Deadline” section.

7. Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) purchase, installation, and activation deadline is outlined in the following “Key Dates & Deadline” section. (required for all licensed equipment).

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplow4va.vdot.virginia.gov%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmichael.mitchell%40vdot.virginia.gov%7Cafeea7b6c7aa4439826308dc948d227b%7C620ae5a94ec14fa086415d9f386c7309%7C1%7C0%7C638548581096519552%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9s91tLJYol5a9ebGuNZAuxnI2GclEDEoscqfyOxNbus%3D&reserved=0

VirginiaDOT.org

WE KEEP VIRGINIA MOVING

All new and returning Contractors must be active in the Virginia eProcurement Portal (eVA) in order to do business with the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Plow4VA site requires the following items: (Please ensure that all of your information within eVA is accurate)

● Contractor eVA ID

● Authentication Code (requested on log-in page: forwarded to contractor’s email, as listed on eVA Pay Remittance Email Address panel)

Below are links to assist in gaining access to items needed to complete registration:

● To find your business information in eVA, go to the main eVA site at http://www.eva.virginia.gov/ and click on “Vendor Login” located left of page. For assistance, please contact the eVA Customer Care at 1-866-289-7367 or (804) 371-2525. VDOT is unable to make or request updates to Contractor’s eVA profiles.

● For first time eVA registration: https://eva.virginia.gov/pages/eva-registration-buyer-vendor.htm

● Access Commonwealth of Virginia W-9 (Only Version accepted) https://www.doa.virginia.gov/forms/CVG/W9_COVSubstitute.pdf

● Business entity details including the State Corporation Commission (SCC) ID number may be obtained via the SCC eFile website, https://sccefile.scc.virginia.gov/. From the SCC eFile website, select “Business Entity Search” in the list on the left side of the page and follow the instructions on the search page. When a business entity is selected from the search results, the Business Entity Details screen will appear. The screen includes the SCC ID number and has a link to purchase a certificate of good standing (Virginia or non-Virginia corporation), certificate of fact of existence (Virginia LLC) or certificate of fact of registration (non-Virginia LLC).

● VDOT has been tasked by the Governor to meet a 42% goal of State Funds to Small

Business certified with the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD).

VDOT is asking our Vendor Community to partner with VDOT to meet this goal. All qualified Businesses are encouraged to certify their business with the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diveristy (SBSD). The Contractor may sign up on the internet at http://www.sbsd.virginia.gov/ or call (804) 786-6585 or (800) 223-0671 for registration assistance.

http://www.eva.virginia.gov/ https://eva.virginia.gov/pages/eva-registration-buyer-vendor.htm https://eva.virginia.gov/pages/eva-registration-buyer-vendor.htm https://www.doa.virginia.gov/forms/CVG/W9_COVSubstitute.pdf https://sccefile.scc.virginia.gov/ http://www.sbsd.virginia.gov/

VDOT has contracted with an AVL provider (Cal/Amp). The device and service subscription will be free to the contractor, as VDOT has incurred AVL device purchase and service plan for the device. Contractor will be responsible for obtaining an AVL device through an online ordering portal provided by Cal/Amp, as well providing device installation upon receipt. Further information regarding ordering, shipment, and installation instructions will be distributed as agreements are completed.

This year there is an Environmental training requirement which consists of watching 2 seven minute YouTube videos accessible from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Please review Item Y listed under section III Special Terms and Conditions in the M7B for information and requirements.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Agreement Submissions:

● Equipment bids submitted will be sorted by requested AHQ, equipment type and ranked by hourly rate from lowest to highest. Once ranked VDOT will begin assigning equipment to routes and mobilization levels.

Equipment submitted beyond October 16, 2026, will be used to fill voids in the snow removal plan, as needed.

Dates Agreement Due in Plow4VA October 16, 2026 Equipment Inspections Complete November 13, 2026 Equipment Rigged by/Picked Up from VDOT November 6, 2026

AVL Installed & Unit Properly Working December 6, 2026

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Contract Administrator Dwayne L.

Hall by email at Dwayne.hall@vdot.virginia.gov or phone (540)-784-8645.

We appreciate your interest in doing business with VDOT and look forward to another successful year in snow and ice control services.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Stephen C. Brich, P.E. 811 Commerce Road Commissioner Staunton, VA 24401

July xx 2026

Staunton District Special Terms & Conditions 2026 – 2027

Staunton District is pleased to offer the following items related to the M7B Snow Agreement.

• Agreement: Staunton District is offering a single-year agreement for vendors. The term starts from the date the Agreement is approved / awarded in Plow4VA through April 30, 2027.

• Operational Rate: Staunton District is offering an operational rate for the 2026- 2027 snow season. Operational Rate refers to a flat rate paid for active winter operations for any time a Contractor is active, mobilized, and working.

• Fuel Price Index Review: Staunton District will be offering an end of season fuel price index review to offset the risk of higher fuel prices during the season.

o Fuel Index Review:

� The fuel index in July 2026 for the first year.

� The fuel index would be recorded monthly November through March during the term of the contract which will be considered the monthly market.

� In the event of an increased difference between the base and the monthly market will be paid to the vendors, based upon 4 gallons per hours worked multiplied by the difference in the base price and the monthly market at the end of the season.

• Bonus Payments: VDOT will provide the Contractor a Bonus Payment on applicable equipment according to the amount listed per bid line on the District Rate Sheet (see attachment A - Equipment List “Bonus Payment”) to offset additional cost associated with preparing equipment for the winter season and any work involved in the preparation of this Agreement. The Bonus payment will be paid at 50% in the beginning of the winter season after the Agreement has been accepted and approved by VDOT and the remaining 50% at the end of the season once all VDOT issued snow equipment has been returned. In order to be eligible for a Bonus Payment, an agreement submission is required by 10/16/2026. Equipment return date will be on of before April 30, 2027.

• Minimum Guaranteed Payment: Staunton District will provide a Minimum

Guaranteed Payment (MGP) in accordance with Section IV. Payment F. Minimum Guaranteed Payment for each piece of accepted equipment according to the amount listed per bid line on the Staunton District Maximum Rate Sheet in the EVA posting.

In order for a piece of equipment to be eligible for an MGP, an agreement submission with all completed attachments for that piece is required through https://plow4va.vdot.virginia.gov by Friday October 16, 2026.

• Staunton District is pleased to offer a $50.00 incentive for new AVL device obtainment, installation and proper communication with Cal Amp and replacement of prior units.

• CDL and Non-CDL Drivers o Staunton District has added hiring CDL and Non-CDL drivers to be provided without vehicles or equipment to supplement snow removal staff.

o The Contractor shall ensure CDL and Non-CDL drivers are given adequate safety and health training as required by OSHA, explanation of their position duties, and ensure that they are provided necessary protections by VDOT.

VDOT will treat CDL and Non-CDL drivers like any other employee in terms of OSHA job required training, and safety and health protections. VDOT shall provide specific training tailored to the particular workplace equipment/hazards.

o Work policies, procedures, and standards established by VDOT shall be followed by CDL and Non-CDL drivers at all times. Contractor’s Personnel, while on the VDOT’s premises, shall conform in all respects with regard to physical, fire, and security/safety regulations. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining all rules, regulations, policies, etc. from VDOT and providing the information to their Personnel.

o The Contractor’s rate shall include any direct and indirect cost associated with their Personnel’s paid time off, training, vacation, sick leave, pension contributions, and/or other benefits based on the wage or salary of the Personnel, when applicable. The rate shall also include statutory expenses, mandatory employer paid payroll taxes, workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, employer’s share of FICA and state and/or local taxes for each of the Contractor’s Temporary on assignment.

o The Contractor shall provide Worker’s Compensation and Commercial General Liability and must list VDOT as an additional Insurer on the General Liability. Required amounts are listed in the General Terms and Conditions, T.

Insurance of this Agreement.

• Contractor Equipment Initial Rigging: For Contractors approved to “first time” rig their own equipment with a VDOT plow rack and its accessories, VDOT will provide a VDOT plow rigging with bumper plate, set of plow lights, and a plow pump/with controls. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing all other items required to successfully rig the equipment.

● Equipment Line Item Notations o Bid line items 101-103 (4WD Pickups): ¾ Ton Truck with Minimum 6’ plow and 1cy or greater spreader o Bid line items 105-108 (4WD Pickups): 1 Ton Truck with Minimum 8’ plow and 2CY or greater spreader o Bid line items 701-709 (Motor graders): Furnished operators shall be proficient in the operation of the grader moldboard as well as the front plow if applicable.

o Bid line item 811 (Supervisor vehicle): Residencies may require this line item if vendors provide 4 or more pieces of equipment for use at the Superintendent/Supervisor discretion. Please contact the Residency Contract Coordinator for details.

o Bid line item 814 (Multi-Axle Dump / Tractor Trailer for Hauling Winter Materials): Equipment shall have 18 Ton or 60,0000 GVW minimum hauling capacity.

o Bid Line Item 901 (Operator CDL): This line item is offered to companies with CDL (commercial driver’s license) operators who possess a minimum Class B CDL with an air brake endorsement and valid medical card. Companies must follow all DOT required guidelines including but not limited to random drug screening.

o Bid line Item 902 (Operator Non CDL): This line item is offered to companies equipment operators who possess skills in operating heavy equipment including but not limited to motor graders and rubber tire loaders.

• Agreement Submissions:

o Equipment bids submitted will be sorted by requested AHQ, equipment type and ranked by hourly rate from lowest to highest. Once ranked VDOT will begin assigning Equipment to routes and mobilization levels.

Equipment submitted beyond 10/16/2026 will be used to fill voids in the snow removal plan according to need.

Dates

Agreement Due in Plow4VA October 16, 2026

Equipment Inspections Complete November 13, 2026

Equipment Rigged by/Picked Up from

VDOT

November 06, 2026

AVL Installed & Unit Properly Working December 06, 2026

Equipment Return Date April 30th, 2027

Incentive Description Incentive Amount

Initial Rigging w/VDOT equipment performed by Contractor $5,000

Subsequent Rigging performed by Contractor $200.00

Initial Rigging performed by VDOT $500.00

Subsequent Rigging performed by VDOT $200.00

AVL Purchase Incentive $50.00

2026-2027

SNOW REMOVAL EQUIPMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT

M-7B

DEFINITIONS: Whenever used in this solicitation or in the Agreement documents, the following terms have the meanings indicated, which are applicable to both the singular and plural and the male and female gender thereof.

1. Agreement: A contract enforceable by law, that is between two or more competent parties, to do or not to do something, is not prohibited by law, and for a consideration.

2. Push Time: is defined as time actively engaged in winter operations as directed by VDOT or designee.

3. Standby Time: is any other time when mobilized that is not “Push Time”. If, during an event, there is a pause in precipitation, but precipitation is forecasted to begin again and the Contractor will be needed, they shall be placed on “Standby Time” until it is warranted to return them to “Push Time” or release them.

4. Rigging: The act of installing VDOT owned snow and /or ice removal, treatment support equipment and limited accessories on an approved contractor owned vehicle following the procedures listed within this Agreement.

5. Operational Rate: (where applicable as specified by the District’s Special Terms and Conditions) refers to a flat rate paid for an active winter operations for any time a Contractor is active, mobilized, and working.

6. Employee is defined by the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission

(https://workcomp.virginia.gov/). More information about coverage can be found on their site’s Employer page at https://workcomp.virginia.gov/content/employers

7. Operational Services: is defined as performing active winter operations for any time a Contractor is active, mobilized, and working under the direction of VDOT.

The purpose of this Snow Removal Equipment Services Agreement (“Agreement”) is to obtain equipment with operators to provide emergency snow and ice removal services as ordered by the Virginia Department of Transportation (“Department “or “VDOT”) during winter weather events. Winter weather events and the conditions they produce are unpredictable, and the services required during these events are time sensitive and ever-changing. For these reasons, VDOT will order services under this Agreement on an as-needed basis, as determined by VDOT in its sole discretion. To be clear, this Agreement is for an indefinite quantity of services; VDOT does not agree to any amount of snow removal services from the Contractor during the term of this Agreement.

I. SNOW REMOVAL OPERATIONS

A. SCOPE OF SERVICES

https://workcomp.virginia.gov/ https://workcomp.virginia.gov/content/employers

1. Upon request, the Contractor shall furnish to the Department any and all equipment described in the Snow Removal Equipment Services Agreement submitted and approved through plow4va.vdot.virginia.gov along with experienced operator(s) for the purpose of providing snow removal and other road clearing treatment services described in the Agreement (“Operational Services”). The Contractor shall provide Operational Services during the Term of each year of the Agreement.

2. The Contractor shall provide Operational Services at locations within the Area Headquarters, Residencies and Districts selected. VDOT may request and the Contractor may agree to work in other locations permanently under the same terms and conditions as this Agreement. Any Area Headquarters, Residency or District in which the Contractor is assigned or agrees to provide Operational Services shall be referred to as the “Designated VDOT Location” in the Agreement.

3. The Term of this Agreement shall be from the date the vendor Agreement is approved through

April 30 of the year following the year of the effective date.

4. The Contractor will be paid the hourly rates selected for equipment with operator used while the Contractor is actively performing Operational Services in accordance with the Department’s directions. If the Department requests the Contractor to be on standby in preparation prior to or during the expected weather events, the Contractor will be paid 50% of the Push Rate or otherwise as specified in the District Special Terms and Conditions.

a) Standby payment will begin when each piece of equipment, and the operator, reports to the designated VDOT location, and continues during the time the equipment and operator remain in the staging process, but is not engaged in active Operational Services. The Standby Rate shall cease for each piece of equipment when VDOT either orders the commencement of active Operational Services or releases the equipment and operator from use.

b) Work under this Agreement at the Designated Rate shall commence when VDOT directs the Contractor’s equipment operator to perform active Operational Services. Work at the Designated Rate under this Agreement shall cease when VDOT directs the Contractor’s equipment operator to stop active Operational Services, or to go on Standby.

5. VDOT may only make one (1) call to the Contractor’s listed number at the beginning of the snow event to request Operational Services from the Contractor (“Call-In Notification”). The Contractor will be responsible for ensuring that its phone number is updated at the Designated VDOT Location. VDOT will establish and advise the Contractor of the time for reporting during this Call-In Notification.

a) The Contractor’s operator shall be required to report to the designated VDOT or Staging Location with equipment within two (2) hour(s) of VDOT’s Call-In Notification. In the event that the Contractor Call-In Notification is later than the hours listed above, the Contractor shall report at the specific time provided.

https://plow4va.vdot.virginia.gov/

b) Each of the Contractor’s operators shall report to the Designated VDOT or Staging Location with all equipment, fuel and any other incidentals needed to provide immediate Operational Services.

c) Equipment photos taken during equipment inspection may be used when reporting for operational service to verify the registration, license plate and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). (See Section E.2 VDOT)

d) Once Contractors are called to demobilize during an Event, all VDOT materials must be returned and unloaded at the VDOT location directed by the Department.

6. The Contractor shall permit the Department, at its discretion, to mount, place, remove and maintain VDOT equipment or components, including but not limited to: plows, A-frames, lights and spreaders on the Contractor’s equipment. VDOT will determine and schedule the time at which VDOT equipment or components will be installed on the Contractor’s equipment.

VDOT will maintain VDOT equipment or components only.

a) All VDOT accessories listed in this Agreement may not be available to the Contractor. For example: lights will not be available in some locations. At VDOT informational meetings, and at other times, as determined by VDOT, Contractors will be informed as to which accessories will be provided at each Designated VDOT Location.

b) If VDOT provides and installs plows on the Contractor’s equipment, VDOT may also provide and install additional sets of lights. VDOT will not be responsible for providing or installing additional lights on the Contractor’s equipment that include plows and spreaders provided and installed by someone other than VDOT.

7. The Contractor shall not perform, or offer to perform, any snow removal operations at the direction of any private individuals, firms, or corporations, while performing Operational Services with equipment being used under this Agreement. VDOT equipment or components shall never be used for private use. VDOT equipment or components shall only to be used on State Rights of Way as directed by VDOT.

8. The Contractor shall perform all Operational Services in such a manner as to satisfactorily remove snow and ice from assigned roadways under current weather conditions.

9. The Contractor shall pick up all VDOT-issued equipment from the Designated VDOT Location no later than the date provided in the District Special Terms and Conditions.

10. The Contractor shall return all VDOT equipment to the Designated VDOT Location no later than the date provided in the District Special Terms and Conditions.

11. The Contractor shall be in full compliance with all OSHA and VOSH personnel, equipment, and safety regulations.

B. LICENSED EQUIPMENT

1. The Contractor’s equipment shall include vehicles, fuel, chains, supplies, and any tools necessary to ensure safe operation and safe equipment. Equipment shall be properly licensed and shall adhere to all applicable federal and state motor vehicle regulations. The Contractor shall maintain all required equipment in a condition that enables the Contractor to safely and effectively perform services throughout the duration of the Agreement. Any equipment failing to meet any of the Agreement standards, deemed to be inadequate, or requiring an inordinate amount of alterations, shall not have VDOT snow removal equipment /components installed, and shall not be allowed to perform work under this Agreement. The Contractor is not eligible for payment (at Standby Rate or at the Designated Rate) until equipment is brought into compliance by the Contractor, as solely determined by VDOT.

2. The name of the Contractor's company shall be displayed on both sides of equipment on all licensed equipment, including Supervisor vehicles while on VDOT right of way. Company Decal shall be a permanent or magnetic decal.

3. Equipment changes or substitutions during the term of the Agreement will only be considered for like equipment (example: replacing a broken-down 4X4 Pickup with an operable 4X4 Pickup) and must be approved by VDOT.

4. The Contractor shall ensure its equipment has the capacity to operate VDOT plows and spreaders once such equipment is installed. The Contractor is also responsible to ensure that none of its equipment is overweight. On all equipment that is equipped with a chemical spreader, the Contractor shall have the tail lights visible and unobstructed by the spreader chute or free standing spreader stand legs. The Contractor shall also be responsible for ensuring the spreader is working properly, and all warning signs are kept clean so that they can be read easily, and all warning lights and backup alarms are operational at all times. For VDOT-provided spreaders, if tail light adjustment is needed to meet the requirements due to free standing spreader stand legs, VDOT may provide the lights and installation of the lights, but the Contractor, or representative of the Contractor, shall be responsible for the wiring of the lights into the truck lighting system. For private spreaders, the Contractor shall be responsible for lights, warning signs and installation. The Contractor shall ensure each Contractor-owned spreader is equipped with a prismatic lens sheeting sign, mounted and clearly visible, on the rear of the spreader which reads KEEP BACK 100 FEET.

5. Per the current version of the Virginia Work Area Protection Manual (WAPM) and subsequent revisions, each vehicle involved in Operational Services shall be equipped with at least one rotating amber light or high intensity amber strobe light, and shall be visible 360 degrees around the vehicle on which they are installed. Vehicle hazard warning lights can be used as a supplement, but shall not be used instead of rotating lights or strobe lights.

6. All single axle, tandem, and multiple axle trucks, dump or otherwise, to be rigged with VDOT-owned plows and/or spreaders, shall have a minimum 12,000-pound weight rating capacity for the front axle.

7. Contractor trucks to be rigged with VDOT-owned spreaders will be required to ensure truck beds are level and free of any dents, damage, debris, or any other material that may obstruct smooth and safe loading of VDOT spreaders for those Designated VDOT Locations using portable spreader stands.

8. The Contractor shall be responsible for properly securing equipment and materials on their vehicles at all times.

9. The Contractor is responsible for all rigging and maintenance when vehicles with auxiliary equipment are provided by the Contractor.

10. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing cutting edges/blades for plows provided by the Contractor. The Contractor shall be required to replace blades as required and at the sole discretion of VDOT.

11. All contractors transporting equipment and materials in excess of legal size and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) are required to obtain and retain appropriate hauling permits in accordance with the Department of Motor Vehicle's Hauling Permit Requirements Manual.

a.) Contractors who are providing their own plows or spreaders for snow removal operations:

i. Contractors providing their own plows and spreaders must obtain appropriate hauling permits directly from the DMV. Contractors may contact DMV Hauling Permit section at 804-786-2787 for more details.

b.) Contractors carrying VDOT-owned plows and spreaders for snow removal operations:

i. VDOT will issue hauling permits at no charge for Contractor Trucks that are using VDOT-owned plows and spreaders. The “Effective Date” field and the field beneath “VDOT” for the Contractor company name shall be computer generated and printed at the time the hauling permit is issued. These two fields shall not be handwritten on the hauling permit.

ii. The Contractor's VIN number can be computer generated or handwritten, but must be entered to make each hauling permit specific to each truck.

iii. These hauling permits expire 1 year from the effective date entered.

iv. Hauling permits must be kept in the assigned vehicle and made available upon request.

12. The Contractor shall provide tire chains when needed for all Contractor provided equipment, including loaders and graders. In the event a Contractor’s vehicle gets stuck, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Designated VDOT Location to which the Contractor is assigned.

No payment at the Designated Rate or Standby Rate will be authorized until the vehicle is back in operating status. The Contractor, not VDOT, will be responsible for rescuing their equipment should it become stuck.

13. In the event the Contractor’s equipment breaks down, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Designated VDOT Location to which the Contractor is assigned. No payment for that piece of equipment will be authorized until the equipment is back in operating condition. With

VDOT’s prior approval, the Contractor may substitute an equivalent piece of equipment. If this substitute equipment requires any VDOT rigging, there will be no payment made to the Contractor during rigging of the substitute equipment. VDOT may bill the Contractor the additional VDOT rigging time.

14. The Contractor is required to contact the Designated VDOT Location immediately if they are involved in an accident while performing snow removal operations. If the equipment is no longer able to perform the service, with VDOT’s prior approval, the Contractor may substitute an equivalent piece of equipment. If this substitute equipment requires any VDOT rigging, there will be no payment made to the Contractor during rigging of the substitute equipment.

No payment for that piece of equipment will be authorized for payment during downtime.

15. The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all of their equipment is in full compliance with local, state and federal requirements, laws and standards and shall ensure their equipment meets all Federal Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Virginia State Inspection standards as applicable (prior to installation of VDOT equipment or components).

16. Contractor trucks and equipment that will be utilizing a VDOT electric plow and / or spreader shall have an alternator with a minimum output of 120 amps. Contractor trucks and equipment that have 24-volt systems shall have a dedicated 12-volt battery circuit / system for the electric plow and / or spreader. Failure to meet the above requirements will result in VDOT being unable to properly rig / wire the equipment; therefore, VDOT reserves the right to decline trucks and / or equipment not equipped with proper charging systems as outlined above.

17. The Contractor shall not leave their assigned routes for any reason without notifying the Snow

Shift Supervisor or Monitor during times of staging for standby or during active snow removal operations, to include stopping for fuel or food. Any Contractor equipment found to not be in their assigned staging area or in their snow removal route without proper notification will be removed from the clock until the Contractor's equipment can be located. Leaving the assigned route or staging area without proper notification may cause for equipment to be released from operations, removed from active call list, and/or the Agreement terminated.

C. UNLICENSED EQUIPMENT

1. The Contractor’s equipment shall include: vehicles, fuel, chains, supplies, and any tools necessary to ensure safe operation and safe equipment. Equipment shall adhere to all applicable federal and state motor vehicle regulations. The Contractor shall maintain all required equipment in a condition that enables the Contractor to safely and effectively perform services throughout the duration of the Agreement. Any equipment failing to meet any of the Agreement standards, deemed to be inadequate, or requiring an inordinate amount of alterations, shall not have VDOT snow removal equipment /components installed, and shall not be allowed to perform work under this Agreement. The Contractor is not eligible for payment (at Standby Rate or at the Designated Rate) until equipment is brought into compliance by the Contractor, as solely determined by VDOT.

2. Equipment changes or substitutions during the term of the Agreement will only be considered for like equipment (example: replacing a broken-down motor grader with an operable motor grader and must be approved by VDOT).

3. Per the current version of the Virginia Work Area Protection Manual (WAPM) and subsequent revisions, each vehicle involved in Operational Services shall be equipped with at least one rotating amber light or high intensity amber strobe light and shall be visible 360 degrees around the vehicle in which they are installed. Equipment hazard warning lights can be used as a supplement but shall not be used instead of rotating lights or strobe lights.

4. The Contractor is responsible for all rigging and maintenance when vehicles with auxiliary equipment are provided by the Contractor.

5. The Contractor shall provide tire chains when needed for all non-licensed equipment including loaders and graders. In the event a Contractor’s vehicle gets stuck, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Designated VDOT Location to which the Contractor is assigned. No payment at the Designated Rate or Standby Rate will be authorized until the vehicle is back in operating status. The Contractor, not VDOT, will be responsible for rescuing their equipment should it become stuck.

6. In the event the Contractor’s equipment breaks down, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Designated VDOT Location to which the Contractor is assigned. No payment for that piece of equipment will be authorized until the equipment is back in operating condition. With VDOT’s prior approval, the Contractor may substitute an equivalent piece of equipment. If this substitute equipment requires any VDOT rigging, there will be no payment made to the Contractor during rigging of the substitute equipment. VDOT may bill the Contractor the additional VDOT rigging time.

7. The Contractor is required to contact the Designated VDOT Location immediately if they are involved in an accident while performing snow removal operation. If the equipment is no longer able to perform the service, with VDOT’s prior approval, the Contractor may substitute an equivalent piece of equipment. If this substitute equipment requires any VDOT rigging, there will be no payment made to the Contractor during rigging of the substitute equipment.

No payment for that piece of equipment will be authorized for payment during downtime.

8. The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all of their equipment is in full compliance with local, state and federal requirements, laws and standards.

D. OPERATOR

1. The Contractor shall provide sufficient qualified operator(s) to ensure continuous 24 hour per day Operational Services during a winter weather event as directed by the Designated VDOT Location. Operator(s) must be properly licensed and adhere to all applicable federal and state motor vehicle regulations.

2. Operator(s) shall wear safety attire while performing Operational Services. Safety attire shall be provided by the Contractor. Operator(s) shall wear a hard hat and safety vest/garment anytime the operator is out of the vehicle. Safety attire shall be in accordance with the Virginia Work Area Protection Manual.

3. Under no circumstances shall a Contractor, while performing under this Agreement allow, or be permitted to have, passengers under 18 years of age, ride in snow removal vehicles. Contractors observed allowing private or passengers under 18 years of age in vehicles during Operational

Services may be issued a “Procurement Complaint Form”, and the Agreement may be terminated and no payment will be made for demobilization fees. Animals are prohibited from riding in the vehicle during snow removal operations. No minors under the age of 18 will be allowed to perform Operational Services or be present on VDOT work site(s), including in the Contractor’s vehicle, when and where this Agreement will be performed.

4. To ensure the overall safety of all personnel and the traveling public, the Contractor is required to provide operators who are able to communicate using the English language, understand instructions provided using the English language, and read and understand maps and emergency road procedures. The operators shall be required to demonstrate that they are capable of understanding instructions in English for safe and effective operations. These instructions will include: plowing and spreading instructions; techniques appropriate to the route; detailed yard requirements such as standby area, parking areas and routes to follow, loading and unloading chemicals, road maps and VDOT snow maps, and emergency road procedures. If the operator is not capable of understanding these instructions, the Contractor will be notified and a replacement operator shall be required. Until an appropriate replacement operator is put in place the Contractor will not be compensated.

5. The Contractor shall be responsible to provide qualified operator(s) with valid licenses. When required for the equipment being operated, the operator of the equipment shall possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with the proper endorsements, and shall have this license in their possession during operations of the vehicle. Failure to comply with this request constitutes unsatisfactory performance and may result in termination of the Agreement. VDOT reserves the right to spot check any operator’s license at any time during Operational Services, and to check the validity of the license with Virginia’s Department of Motor Vehicles at any time during the term of the Agreement.

6. The Contractor shall be responsible for establishing schedules so that any individual operator is not permitted to work more than 14 consecutive hours (to include standby) without having at least a 6-hour break. If the duration of the snow event requires it, the Contractor shall ensure that properly trained and licensed relief operator(s) are available to sustain 24-hour operations.

Contractors that repeatedly fail to provide relief drivers will have their equipment removed from the active call-in list. Continued failure to adequately staff equipment may be cause for the Agreement to be terminated.

7. The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all of their operators are in full compliance with local, state and federal requirements, laws and standards.

8. Contractors shall ensure all operators are properly trained in snow removal operations, including: snow removal and treating techniques, safety requirements, proper identification of snow removal areas, and proper communication of operation status with VDOT personnel.

Contractor operators found to be plowing/treating roadways incorrectly, or plowing/treating privately owned roads or property, shall be released from operations until the Contractor can either replace the operator or ensure that the operator will perform as required. Contractor may be required to compensate VDOT for any improperly used materials and/or time used.

E. VDOT

1. The Department, when necessary, through the Designated VDOT Location supervisor or designee, will request equipment from the approved Snow Removal Equipment Services Agreement submitted and approved through plow4va.vdot.virginia.gov VDOT reserves the right to determine the most effective and cost efficient method of responding to a snow removal event. VDOT reserves the right to solely use its own equipment and to use or not use any contracted equipment.

2. Prior to e-signing the Agreement by VDOT, each piece of offered equipment is subject to inspection by VDOT personnel. The intent of the equipment inspection process is to verify that the equipment provided physically matches what is registered by the Contractor and that it is suitable for winter operations. The location and time of inspection and any needed re-inspection shall be determined and performed at the convenience of VDOT. During the inspection by VDOT personnel, a photo will be taken of each piece of offered equipment including: the registration, license plate, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and a side and front profile of the vehicle. The Department reserves the right to reject any offered equipment. VDOT’s review of Contractor equipment does not absolve the Contractor of its responsibilities to meet Federal and State equipment requirements.

3. If Contractor equipment fails the initial inspection due to vehicle deficiencies, the Contractor shall have 10 business days to document any corrective action completed for a rejected vehicle to be re-inspected. Any equipment not re-inspected or scheduled for re-inspection within 15 days of initial inspection failure may be removed from the Contractors application.

Any equipment that will take an excessive amount of time for corrections to be made may be immediately removed from the application or substituted with like equipment.

4. If available, the Department may furnish A-Frames, snowplows, blades, spreaders and other equipment or components for Contractor equipment to be accepted and approved. VDOT will maintain and repair VDOT-owned equipment and components only.

5. VDOT will provide cutting edges/blades for all plows provided by VDOT.

6. The Contractor’s trucks scheduled to receive VDOT spreaders shall report to the appropriate

Designated VDOT Location with that vehicle’s tailgate already removed. VDOT will not assist the Contractor in removing and/or reinstalling the tailgate. The Contractor shall not be compensated for the time spent removing and/or reinstalling the tailgate. Tailgates shall not be stored at any Designated VDOT Location.

7. VDOT-installed equipment and components, (snowplow hitch, wiring, lights, etc.), excluding plow and spreader, shall not be removed by the Contractor without VDOT’s prior approval after initial installation until directed by VDOT. Once directed by VDOT, removal shall be done by an authorized VDOT representative or designee. Equipment shall be operational for snow removal at all times during the Term of the Agreement. Contractors that remove VDOT-installed equipment or components will not be eligible to receive the post season payment for that piece of equipment or component.

8. VDOT will provide all de-icing chemicals, sand, salt, and mixes to be used for snow and ice removal.

F. RIGGING EQUIPMENT

1. For vehicles submitted to be “first time” rigged with VDOT-provided equipment or components, VDOT will determine at its sole discretion, whether VDOT has the capability to rig the vehicles. When rigged by VDOT, all auxiliary equipment, controls, wiring, and incidentals required may be provided. Any alterations or repairs that are not outlined in the District Special Terms and Conditions will be at the contractor’s expense.

2. Each piece of equipment offered to be “first time” rigged by VDOT will be inspected by VDOT personnel. The inspection will be to ensure the piece of equipment meets VDOT requirements.

Equipment will be inspected to ensure that components are capable of supporting the installation of snow equipment, including, but not limited to: front axle capacity, frame, springs, shackles, interference with steering, brake or other components. Bumpers may require modification to permit the installation of a push frame mounted plow by cutting holes in the bumper for ears to protrude. If VDOT determines that the costs of rigging exceed the customary cost of installing the same equipment on typical VDOT equipment, VDOT may reject the vehicle submitted as ineligible for VDOT rigging. VDOT will maintain VDOT equipment and components only. If the equipment is to be “first time” rigged by VDOT, the Contractor shall permit VDOT, at its convenience, to mount, place, and maintain equipment or components, including but not limited to, plows and spreaders on the equipment deemed necessary for the efficient removal of snow and ice and to remove the same. The Contractor agrees to cooperate in the scheduling of rigging appointments, and to adhere to its scheduling commitments. When VDOT calls to schedule “first time” rigging, the Contractor shall, within 48 hours, either confirm the scheduled date or request an alternative date. If the Contractor fails to meet the scheduled time, VDOT reserves the right to schedule other Contractors and/or reject the Contractor’s equipment for rigging. If the Contractor misses a scheduled and confirmed appointment the Contractor is not eligible and shall forfeit the rigging fee in Section IV, Payment and Invoicing Items, D, Rigging Contractor Trucks with VDOT-Owned Equipment.

3. With VDOT approval, a Contractor who is capable, may “first time” rig their own trucks with a

VDOT plow rack and its accessories using a certified welder, rather than have VDOT perform the rigging. VDOT must inspect and approve the vehicle for rigging prior to allowing installation with Contractor’s welder. After rigging, the equipment must be inspected and approved by VDOT. The Contractor must schedule appointments for inspection by VDOT and must receive final approval from VDOT for the completion of rigging by the date established by VDOT.

VDOT reserves the right to request a copy of the certified welder’s Certificate at any time, and the Contractor shall comply with this request within 48 hours.

4. Contractor vehicles to be equipped with VDOT-provided equipment or components may also be “first time” rigged by VDOT on state premises or a VDOT Contractor. VDOT may provide all auxiliary equipment, controls, wiring, and necessities for the “first time” rigging and perform all the “first time” rigging work; however, the owner shall be responsible for making the electrical connections to the vehicle.

5. Due to the complexity and variation in vehicles and equipment, and the extreme conditions vehicles and equipment are subjected to, VDOT assumes no liability of any kind, either expressed or implied, regarding the installation of any VDOT-owned equipment or components either by VDOT staff or Contractors. The Contractor shall be responsible for inspecting all equipment or components installed by VDOT before the equipment is operating on the roadway.

6. If the snowplow obstructs the vehicle’s headlights, snowplow lights and brackets must be installed onto the hood of the vehicle. Brackets may be added to the snowplow A-Frame for lights. Installation of additional wiring and switches may be installed in the cab area of the equipment. VDOT will maintain and/or repair VDOT-owned equipment or components only.

7. The Contractor’s personnel may be required to assist in installing VDOT plows and spreaders when called in for a snow event. Operators will be required to clean off excess salt and sand lumps from the top of spreader cage at the chemical pad before they are loaded, and during and after the event. It shall be the operator’s responsibility to inspect any equipment and all loads on their vehicle prior to leaving the VDOT loading area, and before the equipment is operated on the roadway.

8. It shall be the responsibility of the operator to inspect the VDOT spreader to ensure it is secured properly, working properly, that all warning signs are kept clean so they can be read easily, and that all warning lights are operational at all times. The Contractor shall also be responsible for maintaining the fuel and oil levels in VDOT-provided spreaders for the duration of the storm event. VDOT will provide fuel and oil for any VDOT-owned spreaders.

The Contractor shall provide fuel and oil for Contractor-owned spreaders.

9. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to report any damage to VDOT’s equipment, component, or property. As determined by VDOT, the Contractor shall be responsible and held liable for any damage to VDOT-owned equipment or components and property caused by the Contractor. Failure to report damage shall result in the issuance of a “Procurement Complaint Form” and other Agreement consequences.

10. If VDOT-owned equipment or components fail, the operator shall immediately report any malfunction which interferes with continued safe operation to the assigned Designated VDOT Location. If VDOT determines that the malfunction was not caused by the Contractor, and that the Contractor cannot continue working because the equipment or components require repair, the Contractor will be compensated for lost time at the Standby or Operational Rate (as specified by the District’s Special Terms and Conditions) for the number of hours needed to complete the repair, or the remaining hours of the current shift, or the end of the snow/ice event, whichever is less. If VDOT determines the malfunction of the equipment or components was caused by the Contractor, the Contractor will not be compensated for lost time, will be held responsible for the equipment or component repair and replacement charges, and VDOT may issue a “Procurement Complaint Form”.

11. The Contractor is responsible for return of all VDOT equipment or components by the end of the snow season or date specified in District Special Terms, but no later than the end of the Term of the Agreement. All equipment shall be returned to the location of pickup or to a location agreed upon by VDOT.

G. AUTOMATIC VEHICLE LOCATION SYSTEM (AVL) EQUIPMENT FOR LICENSED

EQUIPMENT

VDOT-approved Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVL): AVL is a mandatory requirement of this Agreement. For all licensed equipment and any unlicensed equipment if designated by the Department. AVL technology will help locate snow removal vehicles and equipment, document hours at work, miles traveled and provide the ability to locate vehicles in the event of an emergency, such as accident or stranding. The ability to easily locate equipment will vastly improve VDOT’s ability to manage and deploy resources to “hot spots” and high priority areas during a severe weather event. Contractors that have AVL equipment that is inoperable or inaccessible to VDOT may not be allowed to perform services.

Part 1: (Cal/Amp Distributed Units)

A. VDOT will provide each Contractor with the AVL ordering Portal information and installation instructions once their Agreement is accepted by VDOT.

B. The Contractor must have the AVL device installed according to the installation instructions obtained from the designated VDOT service provider, and accessible to VDOT by the date specified in the District’s Special Terms and Conditions (“AVL Activation Date”). AVL must remain installed and activated through the end of the Agreement Term. The AVL device for each piece of equipment is provided at no cost to the Contractor once. The period from the AVL Activation Date through the end of the Agreement Term is the “Activation Period”. The Contractor shall verify service is active by contacting the service provider and having the equipment signal tested. If the Contractor fails to order and install the AVL unit it may result in vehicle/equipment being permanently removed from the Active Call-In list and may be cause for the termination of the Contractor's Agreement.

C. Contractor shall be responsible for compliance with all requirements necessary to activate and maintain AVL service with the designated VDOT service provider.