REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

26-15

BUS SHELTERS AND AMENITIES

Ben Franklin Transit

1000 Columbia Park Trail

Richland, WA 99352

RELEASE DATE: October 22, 2026

DEADLINE FOR QUESTIONS: December 1, 2026

RESPONSE DEADLINE: December 8, 2026, 2:00 pm

RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:

https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/bft https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/%7bproject.government.code%7d

Ben Franklin Transit

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Bus Shelters and Amenities

I. Introduction II. Proposal Information

III. Scope of Work IV. Proposal Requirements V. Proposal Evaluation

VI. Evaluation Phases VII. Terms and Conditions

VIII. Vendor Questionnaire IX. Pricing Proposal

Attachments:

A - Attachment #1

B - Attachment #2

C - Attachment #3

D - Attachment #4

Request for Proposal #26-15 Title: Bus Shelters and Amenities

1. Introduction

Ben Franklin Transit, (hereinafter referred to as BFT), a municipal corporation of the State of

Washington, located at 1000 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA 99352, is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide the following services and requests listed below.

BFT is soliciting sealed electronic proposals in response to Request for Proposal (RFP) 26-15 Bus Shelters and Amenities. Interested Contractors shall create a Free account with OpenGov Procurement by signing up at: procurement.opengov.com . Once you have completed account registration, browse back to:

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft and click on "Submit Response", then follow the instructions to submit the electronic proposal by the proposal due date.

Proposals are due on Tuesday, December 8, 2026 no later than 2:00 pm Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). If a

Contractor would like to submit a proposal via sealed hard copy, please send your request to the

Procurement Manager and a pdf version of the RFP will be emailed to you in order to then submit your sealed proposal via mail or in person. It is the Contractors responsibility to make aware to the

Procurement Manager that they prefer these notifications via email.

1.1. Summary

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) seeks a Contractor to provide bus stop shelters that enhance and incorporate elements of BFT's status as a large urban transit system and the rapidly growing community that we serve. Selected Shelters will be utilized at individual bus stops, in partnership with private and local entities, and at BFT Transit Centers.

The work specified includes the design, fabrication and delivery of prefabricated shelters including wall frame (s), roof, glass panels, anti-graffiti coating, and all required accessories and hardware for installation. Shelter shall be designed by a Registered Architect and structurally engineered. Shelters shall be stable when all windows, roof, fascia and ground fastening are removed. Shelters shall be vandal-resistant, maintenance free and completely weatherproof.

1.2. Contact Information

Lisa Mann

Procurement Manager

1000 Columbia Park Trl

Richland, WA99352

Email: lmann@bft.org

Phone: (509) 735-2302

Lisa Mann

Procurement Manager

1000 Columbia Park Trl

Richland, WA 99352-4851 http://procurement.opengov.com/ https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft

Email: lmann@bft.org

Phone: (509) 735-2302

Department:

Procurement

Department Head:

Rob Orvis

Director of Contracts & Purchasing

1.3. Timeline

BFT reserves the right to modify the Procurement Schedule through written addenda.

Release Project Date October 22, 2026

Pre-Proposal Meeting (Non-Mandatory) November 4, 2026, 9:00am TEAMS Meeting:

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/218431319580

882?p=WPJxBRW7uTiawtU0yL

Meeting ID: 218 431 319 580 882

Passcode: sM92fv9S

Need help? | System reference

Dial in by phone

+1 253-527-1980,,207337805# United States, Tacoma

(844) 640-7974,,207337805# United States (Toll-free)

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 207 337 805#

Question Submission Deadline December 1, 2026, 5:00pm

Proposal Submission Deadline (No Later Than)

December 8, 2026, 2:00pm

2. Proposal Information

2.1. Submission of Proposal

BFT prefers electronic submission of proposals. Please submit electronic responses via the BFT’s

OpenGov e-Procurement Portal: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft. By way of the e-mailto:lmann@bft.org tel:(509)735-2302 https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/218431319580882?p=WPJxBRW7uTiawtU0yL https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/218431319580882?p=WPJxBRW7uTiawtU0yL

Procurement Portal, responses will be locked and digitally encrypted until the submission deadline passes.

If paper hard copy responses are to be made, they will be accepted and must be accompanied by an electronic copy on a USB key included in the response envelope. If mailing a hard copy response, please send 1 response(s) to:

BEN FRANKLIN TRANSIT

RFP 26-15

Lisa Mann, Procurement Manager

1000 COLUMBIA PARK TRAIL

RICHLAND, WA 99352

If your company would like to hand deliver the sealed hard copy proposal please schedule an appointment in order to do so with the Procurement Lead of this project.

BFT’s preference for electronic submissions of quotes shall not influence the evaluation of the bid.

No late proposal submittals will be allowed. Electronic bids may not be submitted after due date and time. Paper Bids received after the date and time specified shall be returned unopened and shall not be considered.

If, after reviewing this document, Contractor chooses not to submit a bid, Contractor is encouraged to complete the "No Bid" option within OpenGov.

2.2. Questions and Answers

Bidders shall submit all inquiries regarding this proposal via BFTs OpenGov Procurement Portal, located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft. Please note the deadline for submitting inquiries is

Tuesday, December 1, 2026 by 5:00 pm PDT. All answers to inquiries will be posted on the BFT's

OpenGov Procurement Portal or in an Addenda. Bidders may also click “Follow” on this proposal to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to check the website for answers to inquiries.

2.3. Acceptance or Requests for Contract Terms and Conditions

By submitting a proposal, the prospective Contractor accepts the Terms and Conditions listed in RFP 26-

15 that is included in this proposal package and any addenda’s. If prospective Contractor does not agree to the terms and conditions, prospective Contractor shall submit a request for clarifications or modifications to BFT prior to the questions and modifications due date of Tuesday, December 1, 2026.

Failure to follow this procedure may cause BFT to Award a Contract to the next highest rated prospective Contractor, due to the added cost BFT may incur due to the change in Terms and

Conditions.

2.4. Amendments to RFP, Clarification and Addendas

Addenda Notification: Contractors are to register for an account via BFT’s OpenGov’s Procurement

Portal. Once a bidder has completed registration, bidder can then “Follow” the project and in doing so bidder will receive addenda notifications to the registered email address. Ultimately, it is sole responsibility of each bidder to periodically check the site for any addenda at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft. Bidder will be required to provide recognition of each addenda issued.

2.5. Communication with Ben Franklin Transit

Upon release of this solicitation document, all Proposer communications concerning this acquisition must be directed to:

Ben Franklin Transit

Lisa Mann, Procurement Manager

1000 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA 99352

E-Mail: lmann@bft.org

Phone: (509) 735-2302

Unless authorized by the Director of Financial Services, no other BFT official or employee is empowered to speak for BFT with respect to this RFP. Proposers who seek to obtain information, clarification or interpretations from other BFT officials or employees are advised that such material is used at the

Proposer’s own risk and that BFT shall not be bound by any such representations and such action may result in rejection of the proposal.

2.6. Non-Mandatory Pre-Proposal Meeting

BFT will hold a non-mandatory pre-proposal conference Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at 9:00 am, PDT, via Microsoft TEAMS, TEAMS Meeting: Microsoft Teams meeting Join:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/218431319580882?p=WPJxBRW7uTiawtU0yL Meeting ID: 218 431

319 580 882 Passcode: sM92fv9S ________________________________________ Need help? | System reference Dial in by phone +1 253-527-1980,,207337805# United States, Tacoma (844) 640-

7974,,207337805# United States (Toll-free) Find a local number Phone conference ID: 207 337 805#.

This is in order for Contractors to make comments or ask questions in regard to the project.

2.7. Disadvantaged Business Participation

BFT promotes equal employment opportunity and maximum practicable opportunity participation by

Disadvantaged Business Enterprises certified by the State of Washington Office of Minority and Women-

Owned Business Enterprises in its Contracts.

2.8. Equal Employment Opportunity

In all services, programs or activities, and all hiring and employment made possible by or resulting from this Contract, there shall be no discrimination by Contractor or by Contractor’s employees, agents, subcontractors or representatives against any person because of sex, age (except minimum age and retirement provisions), race, color, creed, national origin, marital status or the presence of any disability, including sensory, mental or physical handicaps, unless based upon bona fide occupational qualification in relationship to hiring and employment. This requirement shall apply, but not be limited to the following: employment, advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship. Contractor shall not violate any of the terms of

Chapter 49.60 RCW, Title VII of the Civil Rights act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or any other applicable federal, state or local law or regulation regarding non-discrimination. Any material violation of this provision shall be grounds for termination of this Contract by BFT and, in the case of the Contractor’s breach, may result in ineligibility for further BFT

Contracts.

2.9. Ineligible Contractors

Contractor is required to certify that they or their Subcontractors are not on the Comptroller General’s list of ineligible Contractors.

2.10. Rejection and Waiver

BFT reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive informalities and minor irregularities in offers received. This RFP may be cancelled at any time and any and all proposals may be rejected in whole or in part when it is in the best interest of BFT.

2.11. Incurring Costs

BFT is not liable for any costs incurred by the Contractor prior to issuance of a Contract.

2.12. Single Proposal Process

If only a single proposal is received, BFT may require that the Contractor provide verification of cost/price reasonableness, which may include but is not limited to: a cost analysis or a price comparison between the proposed price and that of similar items, materials, supplies, and/or services to confirm that the proposal submitted price is fair and reasonable. If requested, the Contractor shall provide the cost analysis or price comparison within seven (7) calendar days of the date requested. BFT reserves the right to reject or accept the proposal submitted on the basis of verification of price reasonableness.

2.13. Award

BFT shall evaluate all responsive and responsible proposals submitted to determine the highest rated proposal based on the evaluation criteria. BFT reserves the right to award the Contract to other then the highest evaluated proposal submitted, if Contract cannot be agreed to by both parties. BFT at its sole discretion reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all proposals submitted and to waive minor informalities and irregularities to serve the best interest of BFT. BFT may enter into a Contract with the successful Contractor within one-hundred twenty (120) calendar days of the closing date or may extend this time frame or exercise the right to reject all proposals.

2.14. Notice to Proceed

BFT reserves the right to issue a Notice to Proceed at any time up to twenty (20) days following Award of the Contract.

2.15. Procurement Protest Procedures

Protest procedure will be as follows:

A. Vendors and/or taxpayers wishing to protest the legitimacy of any type of procurement action outlined in this manual must submit their pre-award Notice of Protest in writing no less than eight (8) calendar days before the quote opening date. A protest of a proposed award or of an award shall be filed within seven (7) calendar days of the award of a contract or notice of apparent successful proposer/bidder, whichever is sooner.

B. The Notice of Protest process:

1. The Notice of Protest shall state in detail all issues and facts applicable to the protest. Issues and facts not stated in the Notice of Protest will not be considered.

2. A meeting(s) will be called within three (3) calendar days of receipt of the protest and will include representatives from BFT and the protesting party to discuss the issue related to the protest. The protest meeting may be held in person, or by teleconference.

3. A final determination will be made by the BFT Chief Executive Officer within three (3) calendar days of the final meeting, and the protestor shall be notified of the decision in writing by the Authority by regular mail.

4. The Chief Executive Officer may, at their sole discretion, extend the limits of the timeline outlined above.

5. Failure of the protestor to specify their objections in writing and in accordance with the specified time deadlines shall constitute a waiver of all right to protest.

This protest procedure shall be made known to all prospective Contractors and is included or referenced in the requirement section of all solicitation documents.

C. All communications with the parties involved, including BFT staff or board members concerning protest, shall be in writing, and will be open for public inspection. BFT shall be responsible for compiling and maintaining the written protest record.

D. When a protest has been timely filed with BFT before award, BFT shall not make an award prior to five (5) calendar days after the resolution of the protest, or if a protest has been filed with

FTA, during the pending of that protest, unless BFT determines that:

1. The items to be procured are urgently required:

2. Delivery or performance will be unduly delayed by failure to make the award promptly; or

3. Failure to make prompt award will otherwise cause undue harm to BFT or the Federal

Government.

E. In the event that BFT determines that the award is to be made during the five (5) calendar day period following the local protest decision or the pending of protest, BFT shall notify FTA prior to making such award. FTA will not review the sufficiency of BFT’s determination to award during the pending of protest prior to FTA’s proposal protest decision. FTA reserves the right not to participate in the funding of any contract awarded during the pending of protest.

3. Scope of Work

3.1. Project Summary

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) seeks a Contractor to design, fabricate, and deliver a family of prefabricated bus stop shelters that reflect the identity of BFT as a growing large urban transit system while providing improved comfort, durability, accessibility, and protection from the elements.

The selected shelter system shall provide a cohesive architectural design that complements existing BFT shelters while offering enhanced weather protection. Note: BFT currently uses the Brasco Interlude, in a

RAL9006 gray color.

The Contractor shall provide a modular shelter system available in multiple standard sizes to accommodate varying passenger capacities and site constraints. The system shall include both standard footprint and narrow footprint shelter options suitable for constrained sidewalks and urban environments.

The work includes the design, engineering, fabrication, and delivery of prefabricated shelters complete with structural framing, roof system, glazing, anti-graffiti protection, concealed wiring pathways, mounting hardware, and all accessories required for installation. Shelters shall be designed by a

Registered Architect and structurally engineered. Shelters shall remain structurally stable during installation and maintenance activities and shall be vandal resistant, corrosion resistant, low maintenance, and designed for long-term outdoor service.

3.2. Requirements

• All aluminum shall conform to Aluminum Association standards.

• Shelter construction shall comply with all applicable ADA requirements.

• Available in multiple standard sizes based on passenger capacity.

• Provide both standard footprint and narrow footprint configurations.

• Provide enhanced protection from high winds, rain, snow, and harsh sun.

• Shelters will be designed to withstand minimum dead loads and minimum wind loads per the current building codes for Eastern Washington, Benton and Franklin Counties, City of Pasco, City of Kennewick, City of Richland, City of Prosser, City of West Richland, and Benton City.

• Use modular, interchangeable components.

• Use clear tempered safety glass or approved equivalent.

• Provide UV protection on glazing and exposed materials.

• Include anti-graffiti protection.

• Wiring will be concealed within the structure of the shelter for current electronics and additional wiring for future implementation of on time arrival technology displays.

• Be capable of retrofit for future technologies without structural modification.

• Meet applicable structural and building codes.

• Include all installation hardware and anchors; shipped knock-down.

• Package each shelter individually.

• Submit drawings, engineering information, specifications, and installation requirements.

• Provide assembly instructions, parts lists, and installation time estimates.

• Shelters are to be supplied with all hardware and ground anchors necessary for installation and shipped KD (knock down).

• Each bus stop shelter will be individually packaged complete.

Shelter drawings, material data, fabrication, step by step assembly, framing details, erection drawings, parts list and field installation instructions are to be included. Include estimated time for set-up of bus stop shelters at a site location. BFT will require bus stop shelters to be able to be assembled at site locations.

3.3. Shelter Accessories and Options

• ADA-compliant bench

• Lean rail

• Trash receptacle

• Bicycle rack

• Bicycle repair station

• Solar power

• LED interior lighting with occupancy sensors

• Map/timetable display case

• Real-time passenger information display mounting systems

• Additional manufacturer accessories

• Custom shelter configurations

3.4. Quantity of Bus Shelters

BFT will order a minimum of ten (10) shelters during the initial purchase and may purchase additional shelters of varying sizes throughout the possible five-year contract. The contract does not obligate BFT to purchase more than the guaranteed initial order.

3.5. Delivery

Initial order shall be delivered within 120 calendar days after Notice to Proceed unless otherwise agreed upon.

3.6. Warranty

Minimum three-year workmanship/material warranty and five-year finish warranty. During this time frame, the contractor will be billed for all costs in relation to repair due to defects in materials, manufacturing, or finish. Replacement parts must be warranted to be available up to ten (10) years after the purchase of the shelters.

4. Proposal Requirements

4.1. Proposal Requirements

Contractors' proposal should be clear, concise, and provide detailed information concerning the

Contractors ability to successfully perform and provide for the obligations as described in the Scope of

Work. All firms shall include the following documentation in the proposal package:

A. Cover Letter

1. Cover letter shall introduce the Contractor and establish interest in providing Bus Shelters and Amenities for BFT. The individual of whom Procurement may correspond with shall be listed on the letter along with their contact information.

B. Experience Statement (Contractor shall have a minimum of three (3) years ’experience in the services being requested).

1. Describe when the firm was founded and provide a professional history of the firm and its principals.

2. Describe the depth of your firm’s experience and relate that experience to your understanding of skills necessary to complete this Contract.

3. Describe the qualifications of your company, its business experience, and achievements.

Emphasis should be placed on other transit agencies first, followed by local and state governments.

C. Support Material if applicable, i.e. graphics, product details, etc.

1. Frame finishes

2. Materials

3. Color selections/option details

4. And any other relevant information that BFT may need to evaluate.

D. Cost Proposal

1. Complete your required cost proposal within OpenGov Procurement. (Unless your company chooses to submit the proposal via hard copy).

2. If there are additional fees that cannot be listed on the Cost Proposal please ensure to include more detail of this within your Proposal and make sure the Procurement Lead is aware. There shall be no unknown fees.

E. References

1. Provide a list of at least three (3) and up to six (6) current clients and/or projects that have been completed within the last five years, to include Company name, address, contact name, current email address, phone number, and dates of service regarding similar projects.

2. The point of contacts will then be sent (typically via email) a short survey to then be used as a part of the evaluation process.

F. See section: #Vendor Questionnaire under "Forms to Complete". The required documents, which can be found on OpenGov Procurements Portal or requested from the Procurement Lead and sent as Adobe pdf hard copies are to be completed and submitted with the proposal.

4.2. Validity

Proposals shall be valid for one-hundred twenty (120) calendar days from proposal due date.

Note: Proposals shall be sealed and BFT will not accept proposals via fax machine or email.

4.3. Cost of Proposal Preparation

The Contractor is responsible for all and any costs associated with preparation and/or delivery of the proposals and any and all incidental costs associated with the clarification, presentation, or amendment of the proposal. BFT does not expect the written proposals to be expensive or ostentatious.

4.4. Disposition of Late Proposals

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that proposals are received by the specified date and time. Proposals received after the specific deadline will not be accepted and will be returned unopened, late proposals are not possible when responding through the BFT’s OpenGov Procurement Portal.

Proposals may be received up to but not later than the Proposal Due Date and time via BFT’s e-

Procurement Portal located at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/bft. BFT’s OpenGov https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/bft/projects/305022/document?section=2927314

Procurement Portal Clock is the official clock for the determination of all deadline dates and times.

Without exception, responses will not be accepted after the submission deadline regardless of any technical difficulties such as poor internet connections or BFT’s OpenGov Procurement Portal not being accessible from your connected device. BFT strongly recommends completing your response well ahead of the deadline.

4.5. Request for Approved Equals or Deviations

Prospective Contractor shall submit any and all requests in writing prior to the proposal due date. This can be requested in OpenGov's Procurement Portal or an email may be sent to the Procurement

Manager. Questions and Clarifications towards the Scope of Work and the Contract Terms and

Conditions are due Tuesday, December 1, 2026 at 5:00 pm PDT. This is to allow BFT to have ample time to respond prior to proposal due date and time. If no request for approved equal or deviation is received, it shall be construed by BFT to mean that the Bidder/Contractor intends to fully comply with

RFP terms and conditions, and specifications. BFT shall review all requests for approved equals or deviations and, if necessary, shall issue an amendment to the solicitation, which identifies all approved or disapproved requests

4.6. Modification or Withdrawal of Proposals

A modification to a proposal already received at BFT shall be considered only if the modification is requested prior to the date and time for the submittal of final proposals. All modifications shall be made in writing, executed and submitted in the same form and manner as the original proposal. Any modification of the proposal or quotation, except a modification resulting from BFT’s request for a “best and final” offer, is subject to the same conditions.

Proposals may be withdrawn by written or email request received from Contractor prior to the date and time for the submittal of final proposals. Proposals may be withdrawn in person by a Contractor or an authorized representative if the representative’s identity is made known and the representative signs a receipt documenting the withdrawal of the proposal.

Contractor(s) may withdraw a proposal if the resulting Contract award is delayed for a period exceeding one-hundred twenty (120) calendar days from the deadline for receipt of proposals. BFT reserves the right to request that the Contractor grant an extension to the proposal validity period.

No consideration shall be given by BFT to a claim of error in a proposal unless written notice of error and supporting evidence of such claim, including cost breakdown sheets, are delivered to BFT within forty-eight (48) hours of the opening of proposals. Any review by BFT of a proposal and/or any review of such a claim of proposal error (including supporting evidence) imposes no duty or liability by BFT to discover any other error or mistake, and the sole liability for any proposal error or mistake rests with the

Contractor. BFT at its sole discretion reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all withdrawn proposals submitted, with authorization from BFT’s Chief Financial Officer and BFT’s legal counsel.

4.7. Public Disclosure

A. Except to the extent permitted by Washington State public disclosure laws RCW Chapter 42.56, BFT will regard proposals as public records which will be available for public inspection and/or copying following contract award, regardless of any markings or notices contained in the proposal documents. Information will not be released by BFT prior to contract award in order to protect the integrity of the procurement process, unless otherwise required by law. All proposals will remain confidential until a contract is awarded and fully executed by all parties involved.

B. If a Contractor considers portions of its proposal to be protected under Washington State Law, the Contractor shall clearly identify and mark such portions as “CONFIDENTIAL” or

“PROPRIETARY” and submit such portions in a sealed envelope separate from the rest of the proposal. Marking the entire proposal as confidential or proprietary will not be honored and such proposals may be rejected as non-responsive.

C. If a member of the public or another competitor demands to review portions of a proposal marked “Confidential”, BFT will notify the affected Contractor of the request and the date that such records will be released, unless the Contractor obtains a court order enjoining that disclosure. It will be the responsibility of the Contractor to protect the confidentiality of any information submitted in the Proposal and the Contractor shall take such legal actions as it may determine to be necessary to protect its interest. If the Contractor has not commenced such actions within ten (10) calendar days after receipt of the notice, BFT will make the requested portions available for review and copying by the public. The Contractor will assume all liability and responsibility for any information declared confidential and shall defend and hold BFT harmless for any cost, penalties, and/or fees (including reasonable attorney fees) incurred in any action regarding the disclosure of said information. BFT assumes no responsibility or liability for any losses or damages which may result from the information contained in the proposal.

D. By submitting a proposal, the Contractor has thereby agreed to the provision of this section.

5. Proposal Evaluation

5.1. Proposal Evaluation

BFT will establish a committee, consisting of staff members, who will evaluate the proposals on the experience and judgment of each member of the committee and any other experts or consultants the committee may choose. All aspects of the evaluations and any negotiations, including documentation, correspondence and meetings, will be kept confidential by the Evaluation Committee. No information regarding any proposal or its evaluation will be discussed with other firms until after contract award.

BFT may require the selected Contractor(s) to participate in contract negotiations. BFT's requirement that the selected Contractor(s) negotiate is not a commitment by BFT to award a contract. Time is of the essence. If BFT determines that it is unable to reach an acceptable contract with the selected

Contractor(s), including failure to agree on a fair and reasonable cost proposal for providing Bus Shelters and Amenities or any other terms or conditions, the Procurement Manager may ask the Chief Executive

Officer to terminate negotiations with the selected Contractor(s), and to negotiate with any of the other qualified Contractors, until such time as BFT has negotiated a contract meeting its needs.

BFT reserves the right to seek clarification of any information that is submitted by any Contractor in any portion of its proposal or to request additional information at any time during the evaluation process.

Any material misrepresentation made by a Contractor may void the proposal and eliminate the

Contractor from further consideration.

BFT reserves the right to enlist independent consulting services to assist with the evaluation of all or any portion of the Proposal responses as it deems necessary.

Proposals will not be publicly opened and will be kept strictly confidential until Contract is awarded.

5.2. Selection Process

An evaluation team shall review the proposals, discuss, and rank the proposals according to the evaluation criteria. Contractor will not be told of their rankings among other Contractors. These evaluation scores will be combined for a total possible score of 100. BFT may choose to require Best and

Final Offers (BAFO) regarding this RFP. BFT may negotiate with any or all Contractors to arrive at a

Contract for the performance of the work. BFT reserves the right to select the Contractor based on the initial proposals submitted.

If applicable, Optional Interviews will be evaluated separately. BFT may choose to select the top highest evaluated Contractors to conduct interviews / demonstrations. The interviews will then be allotted up to an additional thirty (30) points, totaling a grand possible total of 130.

Proposals will not be publicly opened and will be kept strictly confidential until Contract is awarded.

BFT will select the Proposal that BFT believes best meets the evaluation criteria in the best interests of

BFT. Final selection, if any, will be made on a “best value” basis. If BFT is unable to negotiate a satisfactory Contract with the highest ranked proposer, the next highest ranked proposer may be contacted for Contract negotiation. This method may continue, in the discretion of BFT, until a Contract is successfully negotiated or until all proposals are rejected.

The Contractor(s) whose proposals are in the best interest of BFT will be recommended to the BFT Board committee and Board of Directors. Final approval and award of a Contract resulting from this RFP is subject to policies established by BFT Board of Directors.

5.3. Qualified Contractors Evaluation

Qualified Contractors will demonstrate a combination of corporate and staff experience in planning, designing, and delivering similar projects that include the Scope of Work components. BFT expects that qualified Contractors to address the requirements of transit capital projects that receive state and federal funding and are planned, designed, and built in Washington State, even where they are not specifically identified as a detailed activity in this scope of work. BFT anticipates reviewing qualified

Contractors based on their responses in the following categories, final selection and ranking will be based on the following criteria and points.

6. Evaluation Phases

Proposals will be evaluated by BFT personnel. Evaluations will be based on criteria presented below. All proposals will be evaluated using the same criteria.

Proposals will be reviewed for compliance with the requirements of the RFP and will be scored on the clarity and completeness of their submittals.

The selection criteria used will be based on evaluation results as well as the following:

6.1. Proposal Evaluations

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Shelter Design and Quality

Evaluators will consider the overall design, quality, and durability of the proposed bus shelters and their ability to meet or exceed BFT's requirements and specifications. Consideration will be given to materials, structural integrity, weather resistance, passenger safety and comfort, accessibility, aesthetics, and suitability for BFT's operating environment.

Proposals will also be evaluated on the quality of construction, functionality, and anticipated long-term performance of the shelters and amenities.

Points Based 30

(30% of Total)

2. The Competitiveness of Cost Proposal

Evaluators will consider the overall competitiveness and reasonableness of the proposed pricing for bus shelters and amenities. Consideration will be given to unit pricing, assembly and installation costs, shipping and delivery charges, replacement parts, and any additional costs associated with the proposed products. Pricing will be evaluated based on overall value to BFT, taking into account product quality, durability, and anticipated long-term maintenance costs.

Points Based 20

(20% of Total)

3. Ease of Assembly, Installation, and

Serviceability by BFT Staff

Evaluators will consider the ease with which BFT staff can assemble, install, maintain, and repair the proposed bus shelters and amenities. Consideration will be given to the simplicity of assembly and installation, required tools and equipment, clarity of instructions, accessibility of components for routine maintenance and repairs, availability of replacement parts, and the ability of

BFT staff to perform these tasks without specialized training, equipment, or outside contractor assistance.

Points Based 25

(25% of Total)

4. Contractor's Qualifications and

Experience

BFT will consider all the relevant material submitted by each

Contractor, and other relevant material it may otherwise obtain, to determine whether the Contractor is capable of providing services of the type and scope specific to the RFP.

Evaluations will be based on

Contractor’s proposal describing the understanding of the Scope of Work to be performed, has personnel, equipment and facilities to in order to perform the Scope of Work and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the undertaking and its contribution to BFT.

Points Based 20

(20% of Total)

5. References

BFT will email reference requests to the provided companies of which the

Contractor states in their proposal.

Companies shall be able to attest to the Contractor’s experience as it relates to providing the services listed in this RFP. Evaluators will then review the responses and provide scoring based on feedback.

Points Based 5

(5% of Total)

6.2. Optional Interview – Oral Presentation

No. Evaluation Criteria Scoring Method Weight (Points)

1. Optional Interview – Oral

Presentation

Once evaluations have been completed, the Contractors who have the highest scoring proposals may be chosen for an interview/live demonstration session limited to 30 minutes.

Points Based 30

(100% of Total)

7. Terms and Conditions

7.1. Performance

A. The Contractor will perform all work, furnish all labor, necessary supplies, travel expenses, and equipment for the proper execution of performance described in scope of work. The

Contractor’s proposal is a part of this contract and describes the service provided.

B. All performance must be done in strict accordance with the Contract Documents, including RFP

26-15, Cost proposal and any Addenda.

C. The Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable provisions and the most recent amendments of state and local laws and regulations.

D. Rob Orvis, Director of Contracts & Purchasing or BFT designee shall make decisions on questions that arise as to the quality and acceptability of any work performed under this Contract. If performance (in the opinion of the representative or designee) becomes unsatisfactory, BFT will notify the Contractor.

E. Upon observance of the Contractors failure to perform satisfactory services, BFT will issue a

Notice of Service Correction to the Contractor, via email. The notice will identity the service correction requirement and provide the Contractor 24 hours to begin correction. If the

Contractor fails to begin correction of services within the time stipulated in the notice, BFT will correct the service shortcoming with their own forces or by another Contractor.

7.2. Payment

BFT shall pay the Contractor, upon completion of each shelter or amenities order agreed to by both parties, submission of proper invoice, the prices stipulated in this Contract for product and services rendered and accepted, less any deductions provided in this Contract.

Payments Due. Services will be invoiced after each shelter order on this project is complete and due thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of an invoice.

Interest on Past Due. Any amounts due in connection with this Contract which is past due will incur finance charges at the rate of one-half of one percent per month (6% APR). Contractors will provide an invoice on Contractor’s letterhead for goods or services received. Each invoice will be numbered and will include the following information:

A. Contractor’s name and address

B. Contractor’s remittance address (if different from “a” above)

C. Description of service provided

D. Contract Number and/or P.O. Number

Invoices and support documentation will only be accepted via email to the following email address:

Email: accountspayable@bft.org

Or Contractor may mail the invoice to the following address:

Ben Franklin Transit

Attention: Accounts Payable

1000 Columbia Park Trail

Richland, WA 99352

7.3. Term of Contract & Price Changes

The initial Contract period is February 24, 2027, through February 23, 2028. The Contract shall commence on the date it is fully executed by both parties and shall remain in effect for an initial term of one (1) year. BFT reserves the right to extend the Contract for up to four (4) years, for a maximum

Contract term of five (5) years.

The total Contract amount shall not exceed $950,000.00, including applicable taxes, over the entire

Contract term, including any extensions. BFT does not guarantee any minimum or maximum dollar amount of purchases under this Contract. The Contract shall terminate upon reaching the maximum mailto:accountspayable@bft.org

Contract amount unless additional funding is approved by BFT's Board of Directors and authorized through a written Contract amendment.

Any Contract extension shall be at BFT's discretion and subject to satisfactory Contractor performance, availability of funding, and written approval by BFT. All extensions shall remain subject to the original

Contract terms and conditions unless otherwise modified through a written amendment executed by both parties.

Price changes for year two (2) through five (5) will be based on the CPI, the following procedure will be followed. Price increases or decreases shall become effective on the first day of the extended agreement renewal date if agreed by both parties. The change in pricing can be changed annually based upon the current Consumer Price Index #CPI- Series ID #CUUR0000SA0, U.S. City average, not seasonally adjusted based on two months prior to the Fully Executed month of start. All items, fees and service charges will be increased or decrease by the change in the CPI.

Example below, showing the CPI increase of 6.1% from July 2024 to July 2025. However, the increase would only be allocated for a 5% increase as stated above the price changes cannot exceed an increase of more than a 5% adjustment.

Consumer Price Index - All Urban Consumers

12-Month Percent Change

Series Id: CUUR0000SA0

Not Seasonally Adjusted

Series Title: All items in US City Avg, All Urban Consumers, Not Seasonally Adjusted

Area: U.S. City Average

Item: All items

Base Period:1982-84=100

Year July

2025 6.1%

Price changes for any other justifiable reason will be considered on a case-by-case basis and be decided by BFT’s Chief Executive Officer.

Price change requests will not be considered or granted until any outstanding financial reports have been submitted to BFT.

7.4. Trial Period

Contractor will have a ninety (90) calendar day trial period. During the trial period, Contractor must successfully perform and provide product that BFT finds acceptable. Failure to perform may cause immediate cancellation of the Contract. If a dispute occurs as to acceptability of product or service, BFT’s decision prevails. BFT will only pay for authorized work performed that is properly invoiced pursuant to this Contract up to termination. If the Contract is terminated within the trial period, BFT may award the Contract to the next highest evaluated responsible bidder who submitted a responsive proposal. Any new award is also subject to a trial period.

7.5. Conflict of Interest, Non-Competitive Practice and Gratuities

A. Conflict of Interest: Contractor agrees that it has no direct or indirect pecuniary or proprietary interest, and that it shall not acquire any such interest, which conflicts in any manner or degree with the services required to be performed under this contract and that it shall not employ any person or agent having any such interest. In the event that the Contractor or its agents, employees or representatives hereafter acquire such a conflict of interest, it shall immediately disclose such interest to BFT and take action immediately to eliminate the conflict or to withdraw from this contract, as BFT may require.

B. Contingent Fees and Gratuities

1. Contractor agrees that no person or selling agency except bona fide employees or designated agents or representatives of Contractor have been employed or trained to solicit or secure this contract with a Contract or understanding that a commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee would be paid; and

2. That no gratuities, in the form of entertainment, gifts or otherwise, were offered or given by

Contractor or any of its agents, employees or representatives to any official, member or employee of BFT or other government agency with a view toward securing this contract or securing favorable treatment with respect to the awarding or amending, or the making of any determination with respect to the performance of this Contract.

7.6. Notice of Impaired Performance

A. Whenever an actual or potential event such as a labor dispute, act of God, change in

Contractor’s business or any other event is impairing the performance of the Contract, the relevant party will immediately give notice thereof including all relevant information with respect thereto.

B. If Contractor's performance of any obligation to BFT is delayed or made impossible or commercially impracticable due to any cause beyond Contractor's reasonable control (including, without limitation, acts of God, labor disputes, compliance with government regulations, equipment failure, shortages in transportation, inability to obtain labor or raw materials, or delays in the performance of Contractor's suppliers or subcontractors), Contractor will have such additional time within which to furnish the services under this Contract as may be reasonably necessary under the circumstances.

7.7. Independent Contractor

A. The parties intend that an independent relationship will be created by this Contract. BFT is interested primarily in the results to be achieved; the implementation of services will lie solely with Contractor. No agent, employee, servant or representative of Contractor shall be deemed to be an employee, agent, servant or representative of BFT for any purpose, and the employees of Contractor are not entitled to any of the benefits BFT provides to its employees. Contractor will be solely and entirely responsible for its acts and for the acts of its agents, servants, Sub-

Contractors or representatives during the performance of this Contract.

B. In the performance of the services herein contemplated, Contractor is an independent

Contractor with the authority to control and direct the performance of the details of the work.

However, the results of the work contemplated herein must meet the approval of BFT and shall be subject to BFT’S general rights of inspection and review to secure the satisfactory completion thereof.

7.8. Access to Records and Audits (Local, State and Federal Funded Procurements)

Local and State Funded Access to Records and Audits:

The Contractor agrees to permit any of the foregoing parties to reproduce by any means whatsoever or to copy excerpts and transcriptions as reasonably needed.

Contractor shall maintain books, accounts, records, documents, and other evidence pertaining to the costs and expenses allowable under this Contract in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting

Practices.

Also, all such books of accounts and records required to be maintained by this Contractor shall be subject to inspection and audit by representatives of BFT and of the Washington State Auditor at all times and Contractor shall afford the proper facilities for such inspection and audit. Such books of account and records may be copied by BFT where necessary to conduct or document an audit.

7.9. Federal/State and Local Taxes

BFT is not exempt from Washington State Sales Tax. The Contractor shall include in cost proposal form and be responsible to pay all taxes associated with the project, including but not limited to:

State Utility Tax

State Sales and Use Tax on vehicles and other equipment

State B & O Tax

7.10. Legal Remedies

This Contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Washington, and in any disputes arising under the terms of, or in connection with this Contract, both parties agree that venue shall be in the courts of Benton County in the State of Washington.

7.11. Assignment and/or Subcontracting

BFT and Contractor, each for themselves, binds themselves, themselves principals, successors, assigns and legal representatives of such party in respect of all covenants of this Contract. This Contract and all obligations arising thereunder shall not be sold, assigned or transferred by either party without the previous consent in writing of the other party to this Contract.

The performance of all activities contemplated by this Contract shall be accomplished personally by

Contractor, identified in the submittal. Contractor must advise BFT of the necessity for a subcontract, such as a special testing that the Contractor is not able to perform, via email to the designated BFT contact.

Subcontractor means any individual, firm, partnership, corporation, joint venture, or other entity, other than the Contractor providing the proposal.

Subcontract mean any agreement, including purchase orders (other than on involving an employer/employee relationship), entered in to between the Contractor and a Subcontractor calling for services, labor, equipment, and/or material required for the performance of the work required by the

RFP document, including any modifications thereto.

7.12. Severability

Should any part, term or provision of this Contract be decided by the courts to be illegal or in conflict with any applicable statute or regulation, the validity of the remaining portions shall not be affected thereby.

7.13. Interest of Members of or Delegates to Congress

In accordance with Title 41, USC 22 for Public Contracts, No Member of Congress shall be admitted to any share or part of any Contract or Agreement made, entered into, or accepted by or on behalf of the

United States, or to any benefit to arise thereupon. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any

Contracts or Agreements heretofore or hereafter entered into under the Agricultural Adjustment Act, the Federal Farm Loan Act, the Emergency Farm Mortgage Act of 1933, the Federal Farm Mortgage

Corporation Act, the Farm Credit Act of 1933, and the Home Owners' Loan Act of 1933, and shall not apply to Contracts or Agreements of a kind which the Secretary of Agriculture may enter into with farmers: Provided, That such exemption shall be made a matter of public record.

7.14. Suspension of Work

BFT may order the Contractor in writing to suspend, delay, or interrupt all or any part of the Contract for such period of time as it may determine to be appropriate for the convenience of BFT.

If the performance of all or any part of the Contract is for an unreasonable period of time suspended, delayed, or interrupted by an act of BFT in the administration of this Contract, or by BFT’s failure to act within the time specified in the Contract, an adjustment will be made for any necessary increases in the cost or time of performance of the Contract (excluding profit) and the Contract modified in writing accordingly. However, no adjustment shall be made under this clause for any suspension, delay or interruption to the extent:

A. That performance would have been so suspended, delayed or interrupted by another cause, including the fault or negligence of the Contractor; or

B. For which an equitable adjustment is provided for or excluded under any other provision of the

Contract.

No claim under this…