Atch_02_Performance_Work_Statement.pdf

Performance Work Statement

U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service

Mariposa Grove Transportation Service

Yosemite National Park

Performance Work Statement ● Mariposa Grove Transportation Service – 2026

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

Contents Section 1) General Information and Background

1.1 – General Information

1.2 – Purpose and Objectives

1.3 – Partnership

1.4 – Term

1.5 – Scope

1.6 – Physical Security

1.7 – Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings

Section 2) Service Requirements

2.1 – Transportation Service, Primary Route

2.2 – Operating Service Schedule

2.2.1 Table 1: Annual Service Schedule

2.3 – Sweeper Bus, All Schedules

2.4 – Schedule and Period of Performance Changes

2.4.1 – Non-emergency Changes

2.4.2 – Emergency Changes

Section 3) Government Furnished Equipment

3.1 – Vehicles

3.2 – Conditions of Use

3.3 – Equipment

3.4 – Facilities

3.5 – Services

Section 4) General Staffing Requirements

4.1 – Key Contact

4.2 – Designation of Key Personnel

4.3 – Special Qualifications

4.4 – Drivers

4.5 – Supervisory Mechanic and Staff

4.6 – Dispatcher and Passenger Loading Area Support Staff

4.7 – Service Staff

4.8 – Employee Conduct

4.9 – Screening Requirements

4.10 – Substance Abuse Plan

4.11 – Employee Training

4.12 – Prohibition Against the Possession of Firearms

Section 5) Other Contractor Responsibilities

5.1 – General

5.2 – Contractor Provided Equipment

5.3 – Insurance Requirements

5.4 – Automatic Passenger Counter, Announcements, and Mechanical Diagnostics Systems

5.5 – Lost and Found

5.6 – Bus Cleaning

5.7 – Maintaining and Repairing Vehicles

5.9 – Reports, Invoices, and Data

5.10 – Accident Reports and Database

5.11 – Monthly Service Reports

5.12 – Vehicle Data Files

5.13 – Invoice Requirements

5.14 – Safety and Risk Management Program

5.15 – Radio Protocol

5.16 – Coordination with NPS operations or other Services in the Mariposa Grove

Section 6) Contractor Performance

6.1 – Performance Standards for the Contractor

6.2 – Quality Assurance

QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP)

Appendix A) Graphic Route Summary and Facilities

Appendix B) Maintenance Schedule for Seasonal Operations

B.1 – Inspection of Vehicles

B.2 – Daily Contractor Safety Inspections

B.3 – Transportation Maintenance Program

B.4 – Diesel Electric Hybrid Bus Winterization Guidelines

B.5 – General Maintenance Guidelines

B.6 – Warranty Tracking and Administration

Appendix C) Idle Fleet Maintenance Procedures

C.1 – Battery Power Retention

C2 – System Inspections and Operation

Section 1) General Information and Background

1.1 – General Information

The National Park Service (NPS) requires a contractor to operate no-cost seasonal transportation service for visitors between a parking facility at the South Entrance to Yosemite National Park and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Six heavy-duty, 40-foot, 40-passenger low-floor transit buses will be provided by the U.S. Government. The contractor is required to operate public transportation services for a period of eight months, mid-April through November, while storing and maintaining the buses for the remaining four months of the year. All operations and maintenance costs will be paid through this contract under a firm fixed price.

Yosemite National Park attracts approximately four million visitors annually. The Mariposa Grove is a forest of giant Sequoia redwoods that has existed for thousands of years, with trees renowned for their massive size and longevity. Visitor parking is available in a remote facility adjacent to the South Entrance to the park, where visitors board a bus or “shuttle” for transportation to and from the grove. The length of the Mariposa Grove Road from the South Entrance Station to Mariposa Grove is 2.2 miles. The number of visitors can amount to 5,000 visitors on the busiest days, but regular visitation varies between 2,000 and 4,000 on most days in peak season. This service is provided at no cost to park visitors.

The Mariposa Grove is located in Mariposa County, California, with regional access provided through Fresno and Madera Counties via State Route (or Highway) 41. The distance from Wawona, location of the nearest commercial services, to the Mariposa Grove is 4.8 miles.

General information about the park, its natural resources, history, culture, and management are found on the park’s web site: www.nps.gov/yose.

1.2 – Purpose and Objectives

The Mariposa Grove shuttle operator (the Contractor) will provide safe, reliable, and efficient transportation for visitors to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. The service provides a higher-quality visitor experience at the Mariposa Grove by consolidating parking for the greatest number of visitors in a remote location, while reducing numbers of visitor vehicles, traffic congestion, and vehicle emissions in the Mariposa Grove. The Contractor will:

• Employ drivers and support personnel who are properly trained and capable of providing courteous, helpful, and safe operations with an efficient and pleasant visitor experience.

• Ensure that all vehicles are repaired or maintained in good working order and in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, manufacturer’s specifications, and industry standards, allowing the shuttle system to provide ongoing service and daily operations without interruption.

• Provide frequent, convenient, reliable, and measured shuttle service at no cost to park visitors under the schedule listed in Table 1 on a fixed route.

1.3 – Partnership

The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The National Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.

Because the NPS is charged with protecting resources and providing for visitor use and enjoyment, a transportation services contractor is tasked with operating an effective and efficient transportation service, providing for the enjoyment, safety, and well-being of park visitors. The Contractor exercises some autonomy and discretion in the daily operation of transportation services at the Mariposa Grove. The characteristics of seasonal and daily visitor use and visitation patterns, and weather conditions require that the Contractor be flexible, reliable, and dedicated to the principle of providing exemplary customer service in the operation of service for visitors to Mariposa Grove. The Contractor and the NPS will work as partners in providing the best and most efficient visitor services possible while operating under the terms of this contract.

The Contractor will be integral to park operations in the Wawona Ranger District and is expected to maintain regular communications with the district ranger and staff, to respond to requests for information, and to participate in meetings pertaining to local park operations, as requested by the

NPS.

1.4 – Term

This is a firm, fixed-price contract with a base year plus four option years. Option years will be exercised at the sole discretion of the Government. Service in the base year will begin on the date of award and conclude November 30, 2026. Service in option years will extend from April 15 through November 30 annually. Weather and road conditions permitting, public transportation service will be provided daily from 8:00 a.m. to 30 minutes after sunset. The contractor will be responsible for storing vehicles in a safe place and performing fleet maintenance responsibilities during the period that the service is not operating, December 1, through April 15, annually.

1.5 – Scope

The Contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment (buses excepted), tools, materials, supervision, and other items and services that are necessary to provide transportation services as defined by this Performance Work Statement (PWS). The Contractor is fully responsible for operating Mariposa Grove Transportation Service to ensure safe, efficient operations in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations, and under general standards and best management practices of the public transportation industry.

The Contractor must maintain all vehicles provided under this PWS safely, in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations, and according to federal, state, and local regulations and to industry standards. The Mariposa Grove Transportation Service consists of six (6) heavy-duty, low floor, 40-foot, 40-passenger, accessible diesel electric hybrid buses.

The Contractor is responsible for hiring qualified employees and for ensuring that all employees are properly trained to conduct their duties. The Contractor must provide transportation to and from special events in the Mariposa Grove when requested by the NPS, during routine service periods. The Contractor is required to provide driver support for emergencies, to participate in any evacuation requiring the prompt and orderly removal of large numbers of visitors from the Mariposa Grove, when directed by the NPS.

1.6 – Physical Security

The Contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding Government equipment and the information provided for Contractor use. At the close of each work period, vehicles, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.7 – Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings

At no additional cost to the Government, the Contractor shall attend a post award conference convened by the NPS in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 42.5.

The Contracting Officer (CO), Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), and other Government personnel will meet periodically with the Contractor to review the Contractor's performance. In these meetings the CO or COR will appraise the Contractor of how the Government views the Contractor's performance, and the Contractor will inform the Government of challenges or barriers to progress, if any. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues.

Section 2) Service Requirements Contract Line Items (CLINs) describe the seasons along a fixed route, described in the following two subsections and in Table 1 and Table 2. Prospective contractors shall submit an offer that includes bus hours according to the number of operating days, while working with vehicles that are provided by the NPS. The following subsections describe the route, which is subject to four schedule changes per year.

2.1 – Transportation Service, Primary Route

The purpose of this contract is to provide service between a parking area at the South Entrance and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Regular and reliable shuttle service will be provided daily during the seasonal period of performance. Service will be provided at no cost to park visitors. The visitor parking facility has the capacity for 330 vehicles and includes a shuttle bus stop, public restrooms, and a welcome center (or visitor information station) that is staffed by volunteers from Yosemite Conservancy. These facilities are maintained by the NPS. The Contractor has no maintenance responsibilities for the buildings or grounds. The general characteristics of this route are described as follows:

Parking Area to Mariposa Grove

Mileage per cycle (round trip) 4.4 Number of stops per cycle 2 Cycle time 12 minutes Average road grade 5 percent Operating range elevation 4,000 to 5,700 feet

During the required service period(s), mid-April through November 30, government-owned buses shall be parked overnight in the bus parking area at the South Entrance, or in the town of Wawona, which is 4.8 miles north of the South Entrance.

2.2 – Operating Service Schedule

Table 1 provides the operating service schedule to be authorized under this contract. The daily schedule and hours of operation are required. The estimated “bus hours required” is an assumption. Offerors may draw different conclusions, however must indicate why hours differ within their quote.

2.2.1 Table 1: Annual Service Schedule

Mariposa Grove Transportation Service

Seasonal Schedules St ar t D at e

En d

D at e

N um be r o f S er vi ce

D ay s

M in im um

H ea dw ay s (M in ut es

M in

. N um be r o f B us es

Re qu ire d fo r O pe ra tio n

St ar t T im e

La st

Bu s f ro m

S ou th

En tra nc e to M ar ip os a

G ro ve

La st

Bu s t o Ex it G ro ve

Re tu rn to P ar ki ng A re a

(S un se t)

Sw ee pe r B us

V eh ic le

M ile s T ra ve le d, pe r D ay

A – Spring Season April 15 May 14 30 12 3 8:00 am 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 8:20 pm 349 B – Peak Season May 15 Aug 6 84 12 3 8:00 am 7:00 pm 8:30 pm 8:50 pm 376 C – Late Summer Aug 7 Sept 24 49 12 3 8:00 am 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 8:20 pm 349 D – Early Autumn Sept 25 Oct 31 37 12 3 8:00 am 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:50 pm 297 E – Late Autumn Nov 1 Nov 30 30 12 3 8:00 am 3:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:20 pm 270

Operating Hour Assumptions (A

(B

D ai ly

H ou rs p er

Bu s (

C)

A dd

Sw ee pe r Bu s H ou r Bus Hours Required = (A x B x C) + (A x 1)*

A – Spring Season 30 3 12 1 1,110 B – Peak Season 84 3 13 1 3,360 C – Late Summer 49 3 12 1 1,813 D – Early Autumn 37 3 10 1 1,147 E – Late Autumn 30 3 9 1 840

2.3 – Sweeper Bus, All Schedules

Service from the South Entrance Welcome Center to the grove will terminate roughly one hour before sunset on the end of every service day. Return service from the grove to the Welcome Center will continue for one additional hour. The service schedule provides initial and final departure times. The Contractor will provide a sweeper bus that will depart from the Mariposa Grove roughly one-half hour after sunset, at times also presented in Table 1.

2.4 – Schedule and Period of Performance Changes

The Contractor shall operate the transportation service according to the operating schedules that are approved by the COR or CO. Service hours may be adjusted in the occurrence of mechanical failure, safety concerns with government equipment, weather, road conditions, levels of ridership, or other conditions.

The NPS may require changes to the transit routes and/or schedules. If the changes would increase or decrease the annual number of hours under the contract by +/- 15%, then the hourly rate is subject to negotiated equitable adjustment by contract modification.

2.4.1 – Non-emergency Changes

The Contractor shall not deviate from the NPS approved route or schedules without prior written approval by the COR or CO. The Contractor will not be penalized for infrequent reductions in service that are duly authorized by the COR or CO. Examples would include mechanical or equipment breakdowns, labor shortages due to illness of employees, or insufficient visitor demand. No increase in transit service pricing will be funded without a contract modification that is authorized by the CO.

2.4.2 – Emergency Changes

In the event of emergency situations such as dangerous weather, fire, or vehicle collisions, shuttle drivers may modify routes and schedules as needed during the period of the emergency.

Situations requiring modification of routes and schedules must be reported immediately to:

1. Park dispatch at (209) 379-1992, or 9-1-1

2. NPS Contracting Officer’s Representative: (209) 379-1450

3. Wawona District Ranger: (209) 375-9520

The COR, District Ranger, or Superintendent may direct the Contractor to modify schedules as necessary, during periods of emergency.

Section 3) Government Furnished Equipment For the Contractor’s exclusive use in providing the transportation services described herein, the Government will provide six 40-foot, 40-passenger, low-floor heavy duty diesel-electric hybrid buses in fulfillment of contract requirements:

3.1 – Vehicles

The following shuttle buses are provided for service. The NPS remains the sole owner of the assigned buses, and nothing contained in this Contract or in the payment of services shall enable the Contractor to acquire right, title, or interest in or to Government property.

Fleet No. DOI Tag No. Model Year Manufacturer Mileage 10/30/2025 21701 I-414433 2017 New Flyer XDE40 62,664 21702 I-414582 2017 New Flyer XDE40 65,340 21101 I-512079 2011 Gillig G19D102N4 217,393 21102 I-516077 2011 Gillig G19D102N4 203,445 21103 I-512078 2011 Gillig G19D102N4 64,850 21104 I-516078 2011 Gillig G19D102N4 98,050

Buses may be replaced during the term of this contract, as vehicles achieve maximum limits on mileage and/or service life, as defined by the U.S. Government sources including the Federal Transportation Administration, Department of Transportation, and General Service Administration.

Government-furnished property is subject to FAR Clause 52.245-1 – Government Property. The NPS makes no warranty of any kind, nature, or description, expressed or implied, as to the quality, performance, or state of repairs of any NPS provided property. The Contractor is expected to exercise diligence in the protection of Government facilities and equipment.

3.2 – Conditions of Use

During the contract period, the buses used under this contract will be operated and maintained under the sole control of the Contractor, subject to the requirements as provided by the Government. Except for the purpose of maintenance, repair, or fueling services in local counties (Mariposa, Merced, Madera, or Fresno), the Contractor will not operate buses owned by the NPS outside of Yosemite National Park unless prior written approval is obtained from the NPS. The Contractor may not sublease Government equipment to any private transportation provider or charter company. The Contractor will not use any Government-owned buses for charters or other profit-making ventures. The Contractor must use the vehicles only as directed under the terms of this contract or otherwise approved by the NPS.

The Contractor will conduct a monthly inventory of Government owned property that is assigned under this contract and will assume responsibility for this equipment. The Government reserves the right to inspect or to inventory all assigned property without prior notice. Buses shall be maintained in safe and clean operating conditions.

3.3 – Equipment

Other than Government-furnished vehicles and equipment identified in Section 3.1 of this PWS, the NPS will provide no equipment to the Contractor.

3.4 – Facilities

At the South Entrance Station parking area, at no cost to the Contractor, the Government will furnish:

• Paved parking spaces for Government-owned transit buses;

• 110-volt electric and one quarter-inch water service connections for daily vehicle or occasional cleaning purposes;

• Comfort station, with water closets and lavatories, which are otherwise available to the public.

Four bus parking spaces intended for short-term (two to four hours) commercial coach parking are provided across the Mariposa Grove Road from the parking area. These spaces are also available for overnight shuttle bus parking. Parking for all government-owned transit buses will be accommodated within the park during the operating season. Oversized vehicle parking is also available at the Wawona Store, 4.8 miles north from the visitor parking area on Wawona Road.

The following is a brief description of the South Entrance Station parking area, which is situated at the center of Contractor operations. These facilities are maintained by the NPS and provided for general visitor use. Contractor employees may use the public parking area; however, public parking spaces cannot be reserved for the exclusive use by the Contractor’s employees.

Contractor employees will have access to the public comfort station, waste disposal and recycling receptacles.

• A two-level, U-shaped parking area paved with asphalt concrete

• 280 automotive parking spaces

• 10 parking spaces accessible to drivers with disabilities

• 4 curbside spaces for commercial coach and shuttle bus loading and unloading

• 14 spaces for oversized vehicles, including RV’s and vehicles with trailers

• 5 pairs of four-yard waste disposal and recycling bins

• Comfort station with flush toilets and lavatories

• Visitor information kiosk staffed by Yosemite Conservancy volunteers and employees.

3.5 – Services

No services will be provided by the Government. No employee housing, bus maintenance facilities, fueling facilities, employee break area, changing room, or office space are available for Contractor use. No buildings or trailer pads will be provided by the NPS within (or beyond) park boundaries.

Local communities outside park boundaries and accessible from Highway 41 include:

Population Elevation (Feet) Distance (Miles) Fish Camp* 49 5,060 2.6 Oakhurst* 5,945 2,275 16 Coarsegold* 4,144 2,220 23 Madera, city 66,224 270 58 Fresno, city 542,107 310 58

*Local communities are not incorporated cities. Population from 2020 census.

Much of the land located between Fish Camp and Oakhurst is federally owned public land, consisting of rugged and forested terrain managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Sierra National Forest.

The nearest fueling station with a diesel fuel dispenser is located in Wawona and is operated by the park’s concessioner. Several fueling stations are located in Oakhurst. Rental housing may be available in the local areas including Yosemite West, Wawona, Fish Camp, and Oakhurst.

Section 4) General Staffing Requirements The Government requires that a contract manager and other positions be recruited and filled to deliver the services required by this PWS.

4.1 – Key Contact

The key contact will be the Contractor’s contract manager. The name of the contract manager and an alternate shall be designated in writing to the CO. The alternate will act for the Contractor when the manager is absent.

The contract manager serves as the Contractor's primary local representative having full authority to act on matters pertaining to performance of the services required under this contract.

The contract manager will follow NPS procedures for the reporting of accidents and incidents, and will ensure that all required reports are submitted on time to the CO or COR.

The contract manager will report all accidents and damage to Government property, personal injuries, and/or hazardous conditions to the COR or the COR's voice mail within 24 hours after such occurrence. Written accident and incident reports will be submitted to the COR within 72 hours.

The contract manager will ensure that all bus drivers, mechanics, and other personnel employed by the Contractor are properly trained in all aspects of operations related to the transportation service requirements as outlined in this PWS including, but not limited to, the operation, repair, maintenance, and safety inspection of the equipment used in the transportation service, providing high-quality customer service, and building a tolerant and inclusive workforce.

4.2 – Designation of Key Personnel

The Contractor shall identify names and contact information for key contacts or officials, such as a contract manager, transit service manager, and supervisory mechanic who will be responsible for the performance of work required under this contract. When replacing key contacts or officials, the Contractor will provide updated contact information to the CO and COR.

4.3 – Special Qualifications

Contractor employees who operate any transportation vehicle or bus for any reason and in any location shall possess a valid California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) of the appropriate class for the vehicle being operated. No Contractor employee shall have convictions in the past five years for reckless or careless driving, driving while intoxicated, or criminal convictions.

Drivers must have at least one year of experience operating passenger buses or the equivalent.

Drivers must meet the minimum physical standards as described in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations and as required by all other federal, state, and local regulations.

All mechanics, including the supervisory mechanic, must have a minimum of two years’ experience working with diesel electric hybrid vehicles. All mechanics, including the supervisory mechanic, must meet the minimum physical standards as described in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations and as required by all other federal, state, and local regulations.

4.4 – Drivers

The Contractor must provide drivers who shall:

• Be at least 21 years of age.

• Operate buses on the designated route according to approved operating schedules and timetables with an emphasis on personal and visitor safety, exemplary customer service, and protection of Government or Contractor-provided equipment, wildlife, and other natural resources.

• Perform a thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspection each time they begin their shift as required by the NPS and in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations, as well as industry standards.

• Work primarily as transportation providers and are not tour guides. Basic information about Yosemite National Park may be provided by the Contractor’s employees.

Information about the park's visitor services and areas of interest may be provided.

• Ensure that its drivers have safety training concerning risks and are trained in responding appropriately to incidents. Diesel-electric hybrid vehicles present unique safety considerations to drivers, mechanics, and passengers.

• Wear a uniform shirt or blouse, cap and/or nameplate that conspicuously identifies personnel as employees of the Contractor. A uniform, if provided, shall not resemble that worn by employees of the NPS. Buttons, articles of clothing with corporate emblems or logos shall not be worn, except for a logo and name of the Contractor and Contractor awards, such as safe driving or other service pins. Footwear shall be fully enclosed and appropriate for safe operation of bus pedals, with the driver’s feet covered by a full vamp, quarter, and backstay, and shall not include clogs or sandals.

• Demonstrate good hygiene and present or project a trustworthy and professional appearance to the public.

• Refrain from smoking in or around vehicles and Government buildings, and in places that are subject to high-risk fire danger.

• Not solicit tips for services provided under this contract.

4.5 – Supervisory Mechanic and Staff

The Contractor must provide a supervisory mechanic who shall:

• Be at least 21 years of age.

• Have a high school or equivalency diploma with the ability to clearly speak, read and write the English language.

• Have a minimum of two years’ experience working with diesel-electric and battery electric vehicles.

• Have knowledge, skills and experience in the general maintenance of all buses and equipment that is used in fulfillment of the statement of work for this contract.

• Be available for training to learn subjects related to alternative fuels, as new technologies are introduced. He or she shall have a thorough knowledge of, but not limited to:

− Diesel bus engines and electric hybrid drives, transmission, electrical, hydraulic, and air systems; and related mechanical parts.

− Methods and procedures used in servicing mechanical equipment.

− Bus and trailer chassis and bodies.

− Tools, precision instruments, equipment, and procedures used in the general maintenance and general repair of bus equipment.

− Specialized components such as brake relining, electronic destination signs, and wheelchair lifts.

− Computer software used to maintain the vehicles, to automatically count passengers and to announce stops and routes, visually and audibly.

− The general maintenance of fueling stations and electrical charging systems.

Supervisory mechanic logs will be available for review by the COR or other authorized representatives of the Government.

4.6 – Dispatcher and Passenger Loading Area Support Staff

During hours of shuttle operation, 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., or otherwise appropriate to the season, the Contractor will provide support staff at bus loading areas in the South Entrance Station terminal and in the Mariposa Grove. Personnel are required to facilitate passenger boarding and to provide basic information for park visitors.

Support staff will kindly and patiently respond to questions regarding bus service and schedules;

hours of shuttle operation; locations of comfort stations; availability of food service or campgrounds within or outside the park; lodging and accommodations within or outside the park.

With NPS staff, Contractor staff will ensure that all motor vehicles are directed to park in the South Entrance Station facilities and to use the shuttle bus for transportation to the Mariposa Grove. Exceptions include:

• School buses, when transporting minors;

• Tour buses operated twice per day by the park concessioner;

• NPS vehicles and other vehicles displaying government plates;

• Corporate service vehicles or delivery trucks that require access to telecommunications facilities, propane storage tanks, and sceptic systems;

• Private vehicles bearing passes, placards or license plates that authorize use of accessible parking spaces.

Support staff will be equipped with a radio or mobile phone to communicate with drivers, NPS law enforcement officials, and NPS dispatch, as needed. Support staff may serve as the initial point of contact in the event of a local car accident, wildland fire, or unwanted or inappropriate visitor behavioral issues that require attention by the NPS. Support staff shall receive and report to the NPS any visitor inquiries, complaints or allegations concerning auto burglaries, domestic or civil disputes, disorderly conduct, missing persons, or lost and found items. The role of support staff is to relay needs for attention by the NPS for any required response.

4.7 – Service Staff

The Contractor shall provide service staff (fuelers and cleaners) who are fully trained to safely clean and fuel buses. These employees may perform work remotely or in the park, at the discretion of the Contractor.

The Contractor is responsible for the daily fueling of all vehicles assigned to use or otherwise used in service of this contract. The Contractor is responsible for all labor and material costs for fueling Government-provided vehicles, including but not limited to the cost of fuel itself. No refueling facilities are provided for the Contractor’s use within the park.

Diesel fuel is available for purchase at retail prices at a filling station in the town of Wawona and in locations outside the park boundaries, such as El Portal and Oakhurst.

4.8 – Employee Conduct

The NPS is regulated by Federal Law and Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations: Parks, Forests, and Public Property, which applies by extension to Contractors and their employees.

Contractor personnel shall comply with all federal, state, and local traffic and other regulations and instructions for the conduct of personnel located in Yosemite National Park, on NPS facilities and for persons operating Government vehicles. The CO may require the Contractor to remove any employee that the COR or the NPS Wawona District Ranger deem to be unlawful, incompetent, careless, uncooperative, or otherwise incapable of satisfactory conduct.

When in contact with visitors and as a condition of continuing employment, Contractor personnel shall conform with the following good behaviors.

• Drivers' seatbelts shall be properly fastened when vehicles are in motion.

• The bus motor shall be turned off when drivers leave a government vehicle in a public area.

• Other roadway users (bicyclists, other vehicle drivers) are respected in word, deed, and attitude.

• The bus shall be stopped in a safe location and or the driver’s supervisor or NPS law enforcement ranger assistance will be requested when passengers create an unsafe operating atmosphere.

• The vehicle horn will be used only to warn of unsafe conditions, not to express frustration.

• Contractor employees shall be patient, courteous, and kind when addressing passengers, other visitors, or fellow employees.

• Drivers are permitted to eat or drink only when the bus is fully stopped.

• Contractor employees shall not share opinions about park management with the public, while on duty.

• Contractor employees shall wear a uniform, badge, or other form of identification as a

Contractor’s employee while performing official duties. The Contractor must ensure that a driver nameplate is always on display when a bus is operated.

• Employees will provide courteous service and accurate information to ensure a high-quality and enjoyable visitor experience for all visitors served by the Contractor.

• Complaints about customer dissatisfaction and poor service reflect poorly on both the Contractor and the NPS. Both parties will strive to achieve the best results for customer service and satisfaction, and to minimize complaints about transportation services.

4.9 – Screening Requirements

Prior to hiring, training, or utilizing any employee for this contract, the Contractor shall ensure that all employees meet the requirements set forth herein. The Contractor shall:

• Review personal and character references of employees provided for this contract.

• Not employ or utilize, for any type of services under this contract, any person who is a wanted felon. If the Contractor determines that such a person has applied for a position, the Contractor shall notify the Wawona District Ranger or the Chief Ranger of Yosemite National Park.

4.10 – Substance Abuse Plan

The Contractor shall maintain and enforce a written Substance Abuse Plan that complies with the Federal Highway Administration Regulation 49 CFR, Part 382. At the Contractor's expense, all employees will be subject to a drug testing program, including pre- employment and post-accident testing that conforms with all federal, state, and local regulations and to industry standards. Prior to commencing operations under this contract, the Contractor must submit its proposed drug testing policy to the COR for approval. Personnel records will be made available for inspection by the COR including, but not limited to, background investigations, driving records, drug testing, and medical certification.

4.11 – Employee Training

The Contractor must, at its own expense, provide all necessary training to ensure that employees safely and efficiently perform their required duties, including properly operating and maintaining all Government equipment.

4.12 – Prohibition Against the Possession of Firearms

Contractor employees are prohibited from possession of firearms and weapons while on duty.

Section 5) Other Contractor Responsibilities

5.1 – General

The Contractor is responsible for all costs necessary to perform the services required by this contract, including labor hours (operators, mechanics, dispatchers, and custodians), vehicle fuel, contract administration, third-party safety inspections, cleaning supplies, consumable vehicle items (such as motor oil, filters, and windshield wiper blades), insurance (as required), and uniforms (if provided).

The Contractor will maintain a record of fuel used by, and all maintenance performed on, each vehicle owned by the Government. The Contractor will allow access to all data and records related to service and operations, and records will be provided when requested by the Government.

5.2 – Contractor Provided Equipment

Fire extinguishers will be provided in all public transportation vehicles. The Contractor must ensure that fire extinguishers are installed, useable, and routinely inspected at Contractor expense, as required by all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Drivers will receive basic training on the proper use of fire extinguishers and the precautions to be taken in the event of an electrical fire or other on-board fire.

The Contractor will furnish and pay for all tools, supplies, and materials necessary to operate and maintain Government-owned visitor transport vehicles. The cost of materials for all routine maintenance, including, but not limited to, all parts and supplies and associated shipping, will be included within the Contractor’s maintenance budget.

The Contractor will furnish its own ancillary vehicles, such as a van and a shop truck, to deliver equipment or to transport personnel between work areas. This includes vehicles necessary for vehicle maintenance or vehicles used by employees to shuttle employees between work areas.

The Contractor will provide any of the office space, office equipment, computers, and software that is required to provide the services for daily Contractor operations.

The Contractor will provide, for its local dispatch employees, mobile radios that broadcast at the same frequency as the Government-owned buses.

5.3 – Insurance Requirements

The Contractor must provide coverage for bodily injury and property damage arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or employee use of any automobile, including Government-owned buses that are used for the delivery of services required by provisions of this contract. The Contractor’s coverage will include damages to Government property that is caused by uninsured motorists.

The Contractor agrees to assume liability for, to indemnify and to hold harmless the U.S.

Government, managers, officers, employees, agents, and attorneys from and against any and all liabilities, losses, damage costs, payments, and expenses of every kind and nature (including attorney’s fees and disbursements) that result from claims, demands, actions, suits, proceedings, judgments, or settlements from claims arising out of, or alleged to have arisen out of, or in any way relating to, or alleged to be relating to, the negligence of the Contractor and its individual employees, or the execution, performance, nonperformance, or enforcement of this contract, including the enforcement of this indemnification provision, upon notice from NPS of any such liability or claim that NPS believes to be covered by this section. The Contractor shall defend and accept NPS tender of defense of all suits brought upon all such liabilities or claims and shall pay all costs and expenses incidental thereto, including attorney’s fees incurred by the NPS. The NPS shall have the right, at its option, to participate in the defense of any suit, without relieving the Contractor of any of his obligations hereunder. The obligations contained in this section shall survive termination of this contract and shall not be limited by the amount of any insurance required to be obtained or maintained under this contract.

5.4 – Automatic Passenger Counter, Announcements, and Mechanical Diagnostics Systems

The Contractor will require that drivers log in daily to on-board computer-aided dispatch/automatic vehicle locator equipment with automatic passenger counters, as provided on government-owned transit buses. The Contractor is responsible for maintaining and operating the mechanical diagnostics systems, including computer hardware and software for the buses.

5.5 – Lost and Found

The Contractor shall ensure that all articles found on buses by the Contractor's employees are documented and submitted to the NPS Lost and Found Office. At the time of discovery, items must be tagged as instructed by the NPS and forms, approved by the NPS, must be completed to identify the location and date where they were found.

5.6 – Bus Cleaning

The Contractor is responsible for daily removal of refuse and any food residue from the interior of buses, and for proper refuse handling and disposal. The Contractor must ensure that all vehicles used in transit service, including inside windows, seats, dashboard, stanchions, and exposed surfaces, and floor areas, are clean and free of dust and gum, grime, grease, oil, etc.

Any graffiti on interior or exterior surface must be removed promptly.

5.7 – Maintaining and Repairing Vehicles

The Contractor must maintain all transit vehicles and equipment in good working order, according to all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, codes, laws, ordinances, standards, rules, manufacturer’s specifications, supplements, and industry standards in effect during the period of the contract. The Contractor must maintain all transit vehicles as to allow the transportation system to continue routine schedules, safely and without interruption. These tasks include, but are not limited to, performing regularly scheduled preventative maintenance, safety, and quality-control inspections on each bus.

Maintenance services shall be performed in accordance with Appendix B – Mariposa Grove Transportation Services Maintenance Schedule.

Evidence of work performance will be documented by maintenance and inspection plans, cleaning plans, Federal and State Transportation Department inspection reports, etc.

5.9 – Reports, Invoices, and Data

Monthly reports must be prepared, delivered, and submitted to the COR by the Contractor in an electronic format. Reports will be saved by the Contractor and made available to Government auditors upon request. Data files and reports may be summarized in agency reports or other government documents.

5.10 – Accident Reports and Database

The Contractor shall submit accident reports to the COR. The Contractor shall maintain an electronic database of all accidents, causes and remedial actions that are available for inspection, and provide such information upon request of the COR.

5.11 – Monthly Service Reports

The Contractor must submit monthly reports to the COR including:

• PAX: Passenger counts, or Ridership

• Mileage

• Operating hours

• Fuel use

• Vehicle mileage

5.12 – Vehicle Data Files

The Contractor shall maintain up-to-date files on each Government-owned vehicle, identified by the following attributes:

• Make

• Model

• Department of Interior tag number (Government-owned vehicles only)

• NPS fleet number

• VIN

• Serial number

5.13 – Invoice Requirements

No later than fifteen (15) days after the end of the billing month, the Contractor shall submit an invoice to the NPS. No payment due in any month shall be paid unless the monthly reports required pursuant to this contract, due for all periods prior to and including the month for which payment is requested, have been submitted and accepted by the NPS.

5.14 – Safety and Risk Management Program

The Contractor shall maintain a safe and healthful environment for all employees and visitors in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Scheduled safety inspections may be performed by Federal and State Occupational Safety and Health Administrative officials, the California Highway Patrol, California Department of Transportation, the NPS, and other federal officials.

The Contractor must prepare and submit, in electronic format, an accident report for any accident or incident involving Contractor employees operating Government vehicles within Yosemite National Park, or Government vehicles in any other location.

The Contractor must notify the NPS dispatch at the time of any motor vehicle accidents. A law enforcement ranger may be requested to complete an investigative report for any incident involving personal injury or property damage. The Contractor must conduct its own investigation of every motor vehicle accident or incident involving the damage of Government property.

5.15 – Radio Protocol

The Contractor’s driver will immediately notify NPS dispatch when a motor vehicle accident results in injury or illness warranting medical attention or property damage. NPS dispatch or law enforcement rangers will be contacted immediately when any of the following conditions or incidents occur:

1. Injury to a passenger or employee;

2. Collision of any type, regardless of the amount of damage;

3. An incident on board a shuttle vehicle; e.g. argument with a passenger, sick passenger, and physical altercations on the shuttle vehicle;

4. A detour or blockade is encountered on the route;

5. A collision or emergency is observed in which there are obvious injuries, or the parties ask the shuttle vehicle driver to call for assistance.

5.16 – Coordination with NPS operations or other Services in the Mariposa Grove

The Contractor shall coordinate all shuttle bus service operations with existing and planned transportation activities within the area of performance. This may include:

- The integration of an autonomous vehicle (AV) pilot project into regularly scheduled service. Coordination would include aligning routes, schedules, and safety protocols, participating in coordination meetings, adjusting operations as needed to support AV testing and deployment, and provide feedback to support system evaluation.

- Operation of automated passenger counting system (APCs) provided by the NPS.

Section 6) Contractor Performance

6.1 – Performance Standards for the Contractor

The following performance criteria were developed for the PWS, to provide an effective and systematic method for evaluating Contractor-provided services. These performance standards are based on the premise that the Contractor, not the NPS, is responsible for contract management and the quality control actions that are necessary to meet the terms and conditions of this contract. The objectives of these performance standards are to provide a means for the NPS to evaluate service provided by the Contractor so that service can be either accepted or rejected by the NPS. Failure to provide quality services could result in termination of the contract or other monetary repercussions.

6.2 – Quality Assurance

Reviews, observations, and inspections (ROI) will be performed periodically by NPS staff. ROI may be conducted at any time, whether announced or unannounced. During or after ROI, the COR will inform the Contractor of conditions that must be corrected, and the time period required to correct the condition. All corrective actions are subject to follow-up ROI.

All inspections performed by the COR or a designee are for the benefit of the government and do not relieve or absolve the contractor of the need to perform independent inspections.

The following table indicates contractor tasks upon which the Government intends to evaluate the contractor’s performance via ROI. The Government and Contractor shall maintain a record of ROI. When the percentage of non-compliance exceeds the acceptable quality level (AQL) noted below, the Contractor will be directed to take corrective action.

The Government may enforce other contractual remedies including but not limited to termination for default, if the contractor performs significantly below the AQL, or should the contractor’s performance not meet the AQL for 2 or more months within a one-year period.

QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP)

Category Critical Task

PWS

Sections

Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) Monitoring Method

Seasonal Schedules

The Contractor delivers service according to headways required for the route and schedules.

Tables 75% Visitor comments; NPS staff review and observation of operations.

Shuttle Vehicles

Vehicles are operated and maintained in accordance with guidelines noted in this document.

3, 5 Appx B and C

70% Review of Contractor reports, observations of operation, and field inspections.

Communication Equipment

A communication system is operated and regularly used to manage Contractor staff and to coordinate action with NPS.

3, 4.6, 5.2, 5.15 80% Reviews & observations of operation and field inspections

Personnel

Key positions remain filled.

Adequate, competent staffing is provided. Contractor is training staff to fulfill expected behaviors defined by NPS standards.

4 75%

Visitor comments, labor relations, and management actions; Reviews and observations of operation and field inspections.

Workforce Management

The contractor adheres to the requirements of this documents 4, 5 80% Reviews, complaints and commendations

Reports All required reports are complete and submitted on time 5 80% Review Submittals by Contractor

Safety The contractor adheres to the requirements of this documents

5, Appx B 95% Review & observations of operation and field inspections

Appendix A) Graphic Route Summary and Facilities

Appendix B) Maintenance Schedule for Seasonal Operations The Contractor must maintain all vehicles associated with the Mariposa Grove Transportation System in safe and clean conditions, in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations, and with all federal, state, and local regulations and industry standards.

B.1 – Inspection of Vehicles

a) The Contractor and the NPS must inspect the Government-owned transit vehicles identified in Section 3 within 10 days of the contract’s effective date. Deficient items will be corrected following this initial inspection. At the end of the contract period the NPS and the Contractor will inspect the Government-owned vehicles to ensure that vehicles are in the same condition, aside from normal wear and tear. The Contractor must correct any deficient items.

b) The Contractor will hire a qualified third-party inspector to conduct annual inspections of all Government vehicles. The Contractor will notify the NPS prior to the date of these inspections.

These inspections will identify specific maintenance items that require attention. Inspectors will submit a written report, within 30 days of inspection date, listing items that require attention.

Corrective action will be taken by the Contractor as directed by the NPS. The NPS may inspect the vehicles at any time, and the Contractor must release the vehicle keys to the NPS upon request.

c) Any transit vehicle that is not suited for service must be removed from service immediately.

Concurrent written notice will be made to the NPS with an explanation of the circumstances that merit action. Transit vehicles removed from service will not be returned to service until they are determined to be fit for service by the Contractor’s certified mechanic.

d) The NPS or a qualified third-party inspector may conduct inspections of any transit vehicle, without prior notice. Inspections may also include the garage (mechanical facility), driver training, and associated record keeping.

e) All transit vehicles must be maintained using environmentally preferable materials consistent with the manufacturer's instructions and practical application.

B.2 – Daily Contractor Safety Inspections

The Contractor must perform a pre-trip safety inspection on each transit vehicle used for passenger service, in…