Maine bookmark_high_res[1].pdf

This file is a solicitation document from the Maine Department of Transportation for the procurement of new timber railroad cross-ties. The project requires the delivery of 7,000 cross-ties to Rockland and 1,500 cross-ties to Ellsworth, with bids due February 27, 2008. The cross-ties must measure 6 inches by 8 inches by 8 feet 6 inches and be manufactured from mixed hardwoods including oak, beech, birch, cherry, and hard maple. Each tie requires anti-splitting end plates of 18-gauge galvanized steel centered on both ends and must meet stringent straightness and wane standards in rail-bearing areas. Air seasoning for 12 to 18 months is required prior to treatment, or alternatively drying via Vapor or Boulton process with State approval. Delivery to Rockland is scheduled in four equal lots via rail car or freight between March 15 and April 30, 2008, while delivery to Ellsworth is via truck in truckload quantities between May 1 and June 30, 2008. All bids must be submitted electronically to the Division of Purchases office in Augusta, and the State reserves the option to purchase additional cross-ties at the quoted contract price during calendar year 2008.

Treatment specifications require creosote coal tar solution at seven pounds per cubic foot retention or to refusal of a 60/40 solution per AWPA standards P1 or P2, with creosote petroleum solution acceptable as a substitute subject to approval at time of award. Vendors must provide verified test results from borer cores of minimum 20 per charge taken before and after treatment. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering best value, with evaluation criteria including quality, conformity with specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost. The solicitation favors in-state bidders or those offering Maine-produced commodities.