RCO-OC135-26C Diesel Transit Buses Addendum C

Steven M. Neuhaus County Executive

September 8, 2026

RE: RCO-OC135-26C Diesel Transit Buses

Dear Vendor:

This amendment is to address questions for the above-mentioned solicitation:

1. Q:Section 3.0.6 states the length bumper to bumper for a 30’ bus is 29’11” to 31’11”. Is it acceptable to submit a bid for a bus that measures 33’10” bumper to bumper?

A #1: Orange County wishes to maintain the lengths that were included in RCO-OC135-26.

2. Q:Section 3.0.6 states the passenger seating capacity for 35’ bus is a minimum of: 31. Is it acceptable to submit a bid for a 35’ bus that seats a minimum of 30?

A #2: The first sentence in Section 3.18.2 of the RCO on page 68 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following sentence:

“Seats shall be installed in a minimum of twenty-three (23) seat configuration for the 29/30-foot buses and a minimum of thirty (30) seat configuration excluding the operator seat for the 35-foot buses with two forward facing mobility device positions.”

The chart in Section 3.0.6. of the RCO on pages 32 and 33 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following chart:

3.0.6. GENERAL DIMENSIONS

Description Dimension/Requirement Dimension/Requirement

General Length 30 feet 35 feet

Passenger seating capacity

(Not less than 26.5” hit to knee room and 14” front of seat foot room)

Minimum 23 Minimum 30

Standees The maximum permissible under

NYSDOT regulations

The maximum permissible under NYSDOT regulations

Forward facing mobility device securement positions 2 2

DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES

Renee Arnold-O’Regan, M.A.

Commissioner

255-275 Main St., P.O. Box 218 Goshen, New York 10924

TEL: (845) 291-2792 FAX: (845) 378-2365

www.orangecountygov.com

Description Dimension/Requirement Dimension/Requirement

Doors

One (1) right front

One (1) in rear forward of the rear wheelhouse curbside

One (1) right front

One (1) in rear forward of the rear wheelhouse curbside

Mobility device entrance location Front door Front door

Length - bumper to bumper 29’11” to 31’11” 35’ to 36’11”

Width - body

(Excluding fenders, mirrors, wheelwell splash deflectors, clearance/direction lights, etc.)

102” Maximum 102” Maximum

Height - Overall vehicle height

(including HVAC if applicable) 124.5” Maximum 124.5” Maximum

Aisle width

(Minimum between seats) 20” Minimum 20” Minimum

Floor height at front door from street

(At ride height) 15.75” 15.75”

Floor height at front door from street

(At kneel height) 12” Maximum 12” Maximum

Floor height at rear door from street

(at ride height) 17.5” Maximum 17.5” Maximum

Turning radius

(outer body corner) 29.9’ 36’

Ground clearance

(Except within axle and wheel zones) 8.5” Minimum 8.5” Minimum

Axle Ground Clearance 5.5” Minimum 5.5” Minimum

Axle Zone Ground Clearance 5.5” Minimum 5.5” Minimum

Departure Angle 8.6°(min) 8.6°(min)

Breakover Angle 12° 12°

Approach Angle 8.5° Minimum 8.5° Minimum

Service Life 12 years and/or 500,000 miles 12 years and/or 500,000 miles

3. Q:Section 3.0.6 states the overall vehicle height (including HVAC if applicable) for 30’ and 35’ buses:

114.5” Maximum. Is it acceptable to submit a bid for both 30’ and 35’ buses with the maximum height allowance of 128” including all HVAC components?

A #3: Please refer to updated chart contained in Answer to Question #2.

4. Q:Section 3.0.6 states the aisle width for both 30’ and 35’ buses, minimum inches between seats at

21”. Is it acceptable for the minimum inches between seats for both 30’ and 35’ buses to be 20”?

A #4: Please refer to updated chart contained in Answer to Question #2.

5. Q:Section 3.0.6 states that a turning radius (outer body corner) dimension/requirement for a 30’ bus is 29.9”. Is it acceptable to bid on a bus that has a 31’6” turning radius?

A #5: Orange County wishes to maintain the turning radius’ as stated for the 30’ bus.

6. Q:Section 3.3.7 Wheels and Tires states that the front tires are Firestone B315/80R22.5 and the rear tires are Firestone B315/80R22.5. Is it acceptable to bid on our standard tire size: Michelin X Incity Z 305/70R 22.5 tires for the front and rear?

A #6: Section 3.3.7 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Contractor shall supply tires appropriate for the designed vehicle load and speed profile. The tires shall be compliant with the 2017 Green House Gas Emissions Standards and new tire lower rolling resistance requirements.”

7. Q:Section 3.8 Mirrors: Is it acceptable to bid both the roadside and streetside mirror to be remotely adjustable 8x15 inch heated, split view mirrors with a flat face upper portion and convex face lower portion?

A #7: The first sentence of Section 3.8.2 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “The curbside mirror shall be Safe Fleet, or approved equal, remotely adjustable, approximately 8x10 inch heated, split view mirror with fixed arm mirror head mounting.”

The first sentence of Section 3.8.3 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “The roadside mirror shall be Safe Fleet, or approved equal, remotely adjustable, approximately 8x10 inch heated, split view mirror with fixed arm mirror head mounting.”

Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require detailed expert review and will be evaluated after bid opening as part of the technical evaluation process.

8. Q:Section 3.12.2 Windshield Wipers & Washers: Is it acceptable to bid a 2.6-gallon windshield washer reservoir. This is the largest windshield washer reservoir that can be accommodated in a low floor design. This is a critical design element, which cannot be modified.

A #8: In reference to Section 3.12.2 of the RCO, the first sentence is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Windshield washers shall be provided with a minimum two-point-six (2.6) gallon, translucent reservoir and an easily accessible bus exterior reservoir filler point.”

9. Q:Section 3.13.1 Exterior Lighting: Is it acceptable to bid the exterior lights with electrical power to be 24 volt as the electrical system of the bus is designed to provide and distribute 24-volt DC power.

A #9: Section 3.13.1 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “All exterior lights shall be Dialight LED, I/O Controls LED, or approved equal, and shall operate on twelve (12) to twenty-four (24) VDC. Peterson LED headlights, and Hamsar turn signals, or approved equals, are acceptable.”

10. Q:Section 1.0: Will the County accept a bid on the Cummins X10 engine with the integrated Acument telematics platform?

A #10: In reference to Section 3.21.1 of the RCO, the first sentence of the second paragraph is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “The engine shall be appropriately sized to allow the vehicle to meet all performance specifications, maximize fuel economy, and be equipped with an electronically controlled management system, compatible with multiplex wiring systems and 24 VDC electrical systems.”

11. Q:Payment: Can the County confirm that payment for bus vehicles shall be following current industry standards and payment for each bus will be in full to the contractor within thirty (30) calendar days after acceptance of each vehicle?

A #11: Please refer to item 2 in the PAYMENT Section of this RCO, on page 165.

12. Q:Anticipated Timeline: Please advise the official proposed "CONTRACT AWARD DATE" to allow the successful bidder time to schedule and plan the projected build schedule.

A#12: In order to provide adequate time for the thorough evaluation of the components of this solicitation, the County anticipates an award date on or about November 13, 2026.

13. Q:Section 3.7.19 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid on a 29’ bus without a rear door heater unit because there is no space to install the additional heater.

A #13: The first sentence of Section 3.7.19 is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “The bus shall be equipped with a heating system capable of providing sufficient heat to the entrance and exit areas to prevent the accumulation of snow and ice at the entrance and exit doors.”

14. Q:Section 3.7.6 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid an equal, “Lift-U LU18 Dual Mode Ramp to include their inherent slip resistant surface built into the unit”?

A #14: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require

15. Q:Section 3.16.1 Operator’s Seat: Is it acceptable to bid an equal, “Ergo AM80 model seat, the standard model meant for heavy duty transit buses”?

A #15: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

16. Q:Section 3.21.1 Propulsion System/Engine: Is it acceptable to bid a Cummins X10 350HP Engine as required due to EPA regulations that will be in effect at time of build?

A #16: Please refer to Answer to Question 10.

17. Q:Section 3.29.1 HVAC systems: Is it acceptable to bid the ThermoKing T-20 Rear mount HVAC

Unit model?

A #17: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

18. Q:Section 3.37.6 Batteries and Low-Voltage DC Supply/Charging System: Is it acceptable to bid the X10 engine design built with dual 285 amp alternators and remote-mounted Regulator inherent to the design?

A #18: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

19. Q:Section 3.0.1.2 Purpose: Is it acceptable to bid door equipment that can “withstand in excess of 1 million cycles over a twelve year vehicle life”?

A #19: Orange County maintains the threshold referenced in Section 3.0.1.2 of the RCO.

20. Q:Section 3.0.3.1 Requirements: If successful vendor has application approvals that have already been supplied by the different sub suppliers for the same systems; then are application approvals only required when new a system or installation is agreed upon?

A #20: If the bidder has existing application approvals for systems that are to be installed in the proposed bus, the application approvals shall be provided during the pre-production meeting process. For an existing approval to be acceptable, all interconnected systems must be identical to those in the initial approval.

21. Q:Section 3.0.4.9 Materials interchangeability, accessories, responsibility, standards: What if the aluminum parts do not require priming as they are pre-primed and have a peel-off plastic skin for protection?

A #21: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

22. Q:Section 3.0.5.4 Workmanship: Is Axalta’s Ganicin™ Zinc-Rich Polyurethane primer an acceptable equal?

A #22: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

23. Q:Section 3.0.5.5 Workmanship: The specification states, “…the use of dissimilar metals in contact shall be prohibited (brass to steel, steel to aluminum, etc.).” Vendors may have numerous instances where dissimilar metals are in contact within hydraulic, cooling and pneumatic systems, including components from other vendors. To identify each individual instance would require a massive Engineering review. Can Orange County identify specific instances or areas that they do not want dissimilar metals to be used?

A #23: Section 3.0.5.5 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Direct contact of dissimilar reactive metals for all systems that utilize lines and fittings is prohibited.

24. Q:Section 3.0.5.11 Workmanship: May the successful vendor be allowed to provide buses where not all holes are drilled before paint, the mirrors, cameras and some other components because some equipment need holes drilled after the paint.

A #24: Section 3.0.5.11 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “When allowable, drilled holes and cutouts in exterior surfaces shall be made prior to cleaning, priming and painting. With the exception of marker lights and clearance lights, the bus shall be completely painted prior to installation of exterior lights, windows, mirrors/arms, rub rails (if applicable), fenders, roof hatches, and other items which are applied to the exterior of the bus.”

25. Q:Section 3.0.6 General dimensions: Specifications state 114.5” maximum height including HVAC if applicable. Is it acceptable to bid buses with overall vehicle height including HVAC if applicable at 126” maximum?

A #25: Please refer to Answer to Question #3.

26. Q:Section 3.0.6 General dimensions: Specifications state turning radius (outer body corner) at 36”.

Is it acceptable to bid buses with a turning radius (outer body corner) at 39”?

A #26: Please refer to Answer to Question #5.

27. Q:Section 3.1 Axles (3.1.3): Is it acceptable to bid two ball joints on the rear of the front axle which are lifetime lubricated? Adding a Zerk fitting may void some warranties.

A #27: Orange County maintains the threshold referenced in Section 3.1.3 of the RCO.

28. Q:Section 3.1 Axles (3.1.11): Is a drive shaft from Prop Shaft Supply Inc. equal to a Dana Spicer Series 1810 or 1710 Universal Joint?

A #28: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

29. Q:Section 3.1 Axles (3.1.13): What if SK/Chicago Rawhide is not available? Is the Haldex Gemini MDx air dryer an equal? Refer to SIB-246-060-X-Gemini MDx(Air Dryer)_NFA for additional information.

A #29: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

30. Q:Section 3.2.2 Suspension: Are Firestone Air Bellows with the following part numbers approved equals, Front: W01-W35-5559 and Rear: W01-W35-8497?

A #30: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

31. Q:Section 3.3.6 Wheels and Tires: Disc-Lock wheel nuts cannot be used with aluminum wheels on some axles. Are Zafety Lug Nut Locks in light lime green an equal?

A #31: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

32. Q:Section 3.3.7 Wheels and Tires: Are 305/70R22.5 size tires suitable for bus weight, transit service and speeds up to 65 MPH an equal?

A #32: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

33. Q:Section 3.4.5 Crashworthiness: What if our platform does not utilize rubrails?

A #33: Please refer to Section 3.4.5 in the RCO which, in the last sentence, states “… buses without rubrails shall be designed and verified to meet the side impact specifications of the APTA Standard Bus Procurement Guidelines section 23.2 Crashworthiness, latest revision.”

34. Q:Section 3.5.6 Body, Frame and Exterior: Specification state, “…nuts, bolts, clips, washers, clamps, and like parts shall be zinc- or cadmium-plated, phosphate coated, black oxide coated, or stainless steel to prevent corrosion.” Are alternates acceptable that conform to Buy America standards?

A #34: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

35. Q:Section 3.5.7 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid full stainless steel structure which predominantly uses 41003 stainless steel sheet, plate and structural tube and channel, but also incorporates 201 and 304 stainless steel in the wheel wells?

A #35: In reference to Section 3.5.7 of the RCO, the first sentence is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “All materials used in the construction of the bus frame and bulkheads shall be American grade Series 41003 and 304L stainless non-magnetic steels, with 201SS allowed to be used in the wheel wells.”

36. Q:Section 3.5.10 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid exterior access doors that are held open with either gas struts (large doors) or over-center springs (small doors) the same as provided on Xcelsior buses?

A #36: Section 3.5.10 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Access doors shall be equipped with locks that utilize a tapered square that requires a “T” key to activate and shall be provided where necessary to service engine, radiators, batteries, and HVAC system. The radiator access door (where applicable) shall utilize an externally mounted ventilated panel integrated with bus exterior design to prevent the cooling fans from drawing debris into the radiator while allowing sufficient airflow for engine operation. All exterior doors shall be supported by gas struts applied so that they cam over center and do not automatically open panels when unlocked. Smaller exterior access doors can be supported by over-center springs in lieu of gas struts, if needed. The engine door and HVAC access door shall be fitted with a manual locking type strut. Roof covers provided directly by system suppliers may be excepted from gas strut requirements, provided the cover design does not create a safety concern for technicians. Securement for the rear engine compartment access door shall be of the T-key open, slam latch close configuration or maintained square key locks.”

37. Q:Section 3.5.11 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid when gaps exceed 1/16” per design of the vendor’s proposed bus? When water tightness is necessary, our body panel seams have an overlap between the panels, where the “hidden” part of the overlap is the sealing portion;

the visible seam that is filled is done for aesthetic purposes. No custom molded gaskets or retooling is necessary to correct “mismatch”, as no mismatch exists. In addition, vendors may not have a water test prior to final finish if buses are water tested post-paint.

A #37: In reference to Section 3.5.11 of the RCO, the last sentence is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “The completed body shall be thoroughly water tested and made watertight to prevent leakage prior to the final inspection.”

38. Q:Section 3.5.17 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid bus(es) that allow towing with the use of an adapter. This form of towing can be performed from the front of the coach only.

A #38: Section 3.5.17 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Two (2) tow eyes should be provided on the front of the bus for towing and lifting. Provisions should be made in the rear chassis frame that would allow towing for short distances. The rear tow device shall not provide a toe hold for unauthorized riders.

The use of an adapter for front towing is acceptable, provided the adapter and towing arrangement are suitable for the intended towing and lifting applications and comply with all applicable manufacturer requirements.”

39. Q:Section 3.5.20 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid the standard jacking procedure that also includes a prior side jacking lift to allow for lifting before sliding the lifting jack underneath the coach for areas where it may be difficult to slide in the jack.

A #39: The fourth sentence of Section 3.5.20 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “Jacking from a maximum of two (2) points shall permit raising the bus sufficiently high enough to remove and reinstall a wheel and flat tire assembly without maintenance personnel crawling under any portion of the bus.”

40. Q:Section 3.5.22 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid a Cole Hersee seven pin electrical tow connector located below the front streetside headlight on the front mask? This location is close to the front air fittings which are located below the front bumper but not in the same location.

A #40: In reference to Section 3.5.22 of the RCO, the last two sentences are hereby deleted and replaced in their entirety with the following: “A seven pin tow connector shall be provided at the front of the bus in a location near the air fitting that is easily accessible and does not impact functionality. The heavy-duty connector shall be a Cole Hersee Co. 12063-01, or approved equal.”

41. Q:Section 3.5.24 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to bid a front license plate mounting location at the lower center of the defroster door approximately 26" from the ground.

A #41: The second sentence of Section 3.5.24 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “The license plate shall be mounted between a range of 24-36 inches above the ground, as measured from the street to the bottom horizontal edge of the license plate and shall be mounted flat or recessed so that they can be cleaned by automatic bus washing equipment without being caught by the brushes.”

42. Q:Section 3.5.25 Body, Frame and Exterior: Is it acceptable to provide rain gutters installed at the very front of the bus right next to the windshield and all the way to the rear of the bus to collect some amount of rainwater? Water is drained towards the rear of the bus however during heavy downpour or when decelerating, the gutter is unable to hold all the water and allows some amount of rain water to drain onto the windshield and entrance area.

A #42: In reference to Section 3.5.25 of the RCO, the second sentence of the paragraph is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “When the bus decelerates or is operated on a downslope, the gutter shall not drain onto the windshield or the operator’s side windows, or into the door boarding areas, when feasibly possible.”

43. Q:Section 3.6.2.3 Fire Suppression System: Is it acceptable to bid an alternate system which has agent cylinders that are pressurized with nitrogen gas to a pressure of 350 psi (2413 kPa) at 70 degrees F (21 degrees C)?

A #43: The first sentence of Section 3.6.2.3 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “Fire Suppressant media storage tank shall be a DOT certified bottle containing the minimum of twenty-five (25) lbs. of dry chemical agent, charged with nitrogen to the manufacturer approved charge pressure.”

44. Q:Section 3.6.2.3 Fire Suppression System: Is it acceptable to bid an alternate system which has agent cylinders with an operating range of -65 degrees F to 150 degrees F?

A #44: Item #2 in 3.6.2.3 on page 45 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “The fire system must be capable of operating in a range of - 20 degrees for New York State ambient temperatures, up to the highest temperatures for where the system will be installed.”

45. Q:Section 3.6.2.6 Fire Suppression System: Is it acceptable to bid an alternate system with a manual actuation switch which does not incorporate a removeable guard held in place by a tamper seal/pin assembly.

A #45: All proposed systems must include a passive safety element that prevents accidental discharge of the system. System designs will require detailed expert review and will be evaluated after bid opening as part of the technical evaluation process.

46. Q:Section 3.7.1 & 2 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid 3/4 inch 7-ply veener plywood flooring that does not have the edges sealed, the product does not require the sealing of cut edges as it has been developed to assure full penetration and retention of ACQ, the environmentally friendly preservative that prevents decay and insect damage.

A #46: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

47. Q:Section 3.7.3 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid flooring tapping plates with a material thickness that varies between .074” and .250”? The purpose of the fasteners are to hold the flooring in place while the flooring adhesive is curing. The flooring adhesive acts as the primary securement method.

A #47: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

48. Q:Section 3.7.4 Floor and Entranceway: What if the proposed bus model does not provide an underfloor reinforcement plate for the farebox because the farebox is mounted to the SST farebox pedestal which provides sufficient support for the farebox?

A #48: In reference to Section 3.7.4 of the RCO, the Section on page 46 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “A minimum (16) inch square, one-quarter inch (1/4”) thick steel, under floor reinforcement plate for the fare collection system installation shall be provided to prevent shaking of the fare collection system, to provide adequate structural support and to prevent theft of the fare collection system. Once fare collection system and plate orientation is determined, Contractor shall drill all mounting bolts through the floor and reinforcement plate.”

49. Q:Section 3.7.7 Floor and Entranceway: What if the proposed bus model does not have butt-cut type joints in the floor covering? Is it acceptable to bid floor covering in the lower area that extends seamlessly up the sidewall for at least 4 inches and is locked in place by the seat track. Flooring on the upper level does not extend up the wall, however, a stainless steel molding is provided which encloses and seals the edge between the floor and the wall. Cove molding is not provided in the following locations: Front dash to floor, driver’s platform to floor, rear step to floor and rear wheel wells to floor. The flooring at these joints are either welded or sealed with manufacturer approved products to form a secure joint which eliminates the need for molding. The flooring in the raised rear platform area will be installed in a fully sealed butt joint configuration at the side wall. However, the flooring in the lower front section will be coved up the side walls.

A #49: In reference to Section 3.7.7 of the RCO the first sentence is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: When applicable, all joints in the floor covering shall be butt-cut type.”

50. Q:Section 3.7.10 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid a "Caution Watch Your Step" decal

(dwg 595127) on the face of the driver's platform to alert the driver to the change in floor level instead of an inlay on the driver's platform?

A #50: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

51. Q:Section 3.7.12 Floor and Entranceway: Is it acceptable to bid a rear step which is angled and has a depth that varies from 12" on the curbside to 34" on the street side?

A #51: Section 3.7.12 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “All interior step treads shall have a minimum depth of thirteen (13) inches, measured in the direction of travel, and shall be uniform depth except where an angled or tapered step configuration is specifically required to accommodate the vehicle design. An angled rear step serving the upper rear vestibule is permitted, provided that the tread depth is not less than twelve (12) inches at the narrowest point and provides adequate tread surface throughout the step.”

52. Q:Section 3.8.7 Mirrors: Is it acceptable to bid an operator’s side window that is framed?

A #52: In reference to Section 3.8.7 of the RCO, the Section on page 50 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “The operator’s side window shall be constructed so as to not obstruct the operator’s field of view.”

53. Q:Section 3.8.9 Mirrors: Is it acceptable to bid an 8 x 16 inch rectangular, convex, rear-view mirror, Safe Fleet N38S05M0, shall be installed on or underneath the front bulkhead for operator's view of bus interior?

A #53: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

54. Q:Section 3.8.10 Mirrors: Is it acceptable to bid an 8" x 15" driver's rear view mirror, a 6" flat spot mirror and a 12" convex exit door mirror?

A #54: Section 3.8.10 is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following: “A convex mirror (approximately 10” x 7”), or approved equal, shall be mounted to allow the operator to see completely the front entranceway step/ramp area if the front entrance is crowded with passengers and operator’s direct view is blocked. This mirror shall not interfere with any camera views.”

Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require detailed expert review and will be evaluated after bid opening as part of the technical evaluation process.

55. Q:Section 3.9.2 Doors: Specification states, “The edge of a 6- inch-high curb shall be visible to the seated operator through the closed front door when the bus is no more than twelve (12) inches from the curb.” This is a high floor bus requirement and therefore not applicable to the low floor bus. The current APTA Guidelines do not include this requirement.

A #55: In reference to Section 3.9.2 of the RCO, the sentence “The edge of a 6-inch-high curb shall be visible to the seated operator through the closed front door when the bus is no more than twelve (12) inches from the curb” is hereby deleted in its entirety. The rest of the paragraph remains unchanged.

56. Q:Section 3.9.2 Doors: Is full one-piece design front door glazing acceptable? Provided in accordance with all applicable mandatory motor vehicle safety regulations including FMVSS and CMVSS. Glass type AS2 laminated, single density green, with 72% light transmittance.

A #56: Yes, assuming compliance with federal, state and local regulations, and that no other RCO specifications are compromised with this acceptance. Final determination on the proposed options will be made after bid opening.

57. Q:Section 3.9.10 Doors: Is it acceptable to bid a system that is based on activating the interlocks at speeds above 2 mph (as opposed to 3 mph)? The doors shall not open until the bus is below 2 mph.

However, when the emergency switch is activated, the bus will stop regardless of its speed.

A #57: The sentence “Doors shall not open during emergency stops until the bus is below 3 mph” is hereby deleted from Section 3.9.10 of the RCO.

58. Q:Section 3.9.10 Doors: Is it acceptable to bid doors that will open (regardless of the bus's speed) when the "emergency exit switch" is activated? This means that the activation of the interlocks will be immediate regardless of the bus's speed. This configuration meets the following requirement as per Section 3.9.11: "In the event of an emergency, it shall be possible to open the doors manually regardless of the vehicle speed. Emergency dump valve shall apply the brake interlock regardless of vehicle speed."

A #58: The sentence “NYSDOT requires the emergency braking system shall achieve an average deceleration of at least 0.150, averaged from an initial negative G of 0.1, until the vehicle makes a complete stop, from an initial speed of approximately 10 mph, to be validated using an electronic, calibrated accelerometer testing device” is hereby deleted from Section

3.9.10 of the RCO and added as the last sentence of Section 3.9.11 of the RCO.

59. Q:Section 3.9.10 Doors Is it acceptable to bid doors that will open (regardless of the bus's speed) when the "emergency exit switch" is activated. This means that the activation of the interlocks will be immediate regardless of the bus's speed. This configuration meets the following requirement as per Section 3.10. DOORS: "In the event of emergency, it shall be possible to open the doors manually regardless of the vehicle speed. Emergency dump valve shall apply brake interlock regardless of vehicle speed."

A #59: Please refer to Answer to Question 58.

60. Q:Section 3.9.14 Doors: Is it acceptable to bid on a propulsion compartment and all other large exterior access doors, except for the battery compartment door, that are horizontally hinged? The smaller exterior access panels are vertically hinged. This is inherent to the bus design.

A #60: In reference to Section 3.9.14 of the RCO, the orientation of hinge placement is not specified as a requirement.

61. Q:Sections 3.9.15 Doors & 3.5.10 Body, Frame and Exterior: There is a contradiction with respect to the propulsion door lock requirements in these two specification sections. Section 3.10.15 states "no key locks" and Section 3.6.10 states "T-key open, slam close". Is it acceptable to bid propulsion door overcenter rotary latches (no key locks)?

A #61: In reference to Section 3.9.15 of the RCO, the sentence “No key locks shall be installed on the main engine door or on any side compartment door that covers the main emergency fuel shut-off” is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following sentence “Compartment doors used to access emergency disconnects shall not have locks installed.

Any door that is required to have a lock and would prevent access to an emergency disconnect must have a smaller door or other means to access the disconnect without unlocking the main door.”

62. Q:Section 3.10.1 Passenger Counter: Is it acceptable to bid buses without a manual passenger count system to be further reviewed with the successful offeror?

A #62: Orange County maintains the specification referenced in Section 3.10.1 of the RCO.

63. Q:Section 3.11.3 Windows: Vendor requests approval to bid all egress windows except for the side destination sign and the rearmost window on each side of the bus. These windows have a non-standard shape with an angled portion that does not permit use as an egress window. The egress requirements per FMVSS are exceeded with all other egress windows and the two roof hatches.

A #63: Per Section 3.11.3 of the RCO, “The quantity of emergency windows shall be maximized. Make all passenger windows a safety exit except where obstructed by side destination sign...”. Final determination on the proposed options will be made after bid opening.

64. Q:Section 3.11.4 Windows: Is a minimum glazing material of ¼ inch nominal thickness acceptable?

A #64: The first sentence in Section 3.11.4 of the RCO on page 55 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following sentence:

“Side window glazing material shall be a minimum of one fourth (1/4) inch nominal thickness AS-3 tempered glass or polycarbonate.”

65. Q:Section 3.11.5 Windows: Is Vandal shield an approved equal?

A #65: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

66. Q:Section 3.11.8 Windows: Is a BS70L glass that is nominal 7mm acceptable?

A #66: The first sentence of Section 3.11.8 of RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “Operator’s side window and entrance door glazing shall have a minimum of 6.4mm nominal thickness and be BS70L, or approved equal, laminated heat-treated safety glass conforming with the requirements of ANSI Z26.1-1996 Test Grouping 2 and the Recommended Practices defined in SAE J673.”

Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require

67. Q:Section 3.11.8 Windows: Is this alternate acceptable: an operator's side window which has laminated dual sliding sashes which will provide 99% UV protection. The exterior flush glazing of this window will be tempered to match the proposed 44% LT tempered passenger windows.

However, the interior and exterior knob style handles cannot be provided with the laminated sashes due to manufacturing difficulties. Only an exterior bonded handle can be provided.

A #67: Orange County would like to clarify that the luminous transmittance in Section 3.11.8 of the RCO has a specification requirement of 70%. This Section does not contain any requirements on knob styles so further consideration to this question cannot take place.

68. Q:Section 3.11.9 Windows: Is it acceptable to provide Black rollerblind, Scissor type with 20" travel and 44" wide in the front windshield? (The same as provided on previous Xcelsior builds). In the drivers window: vendor requests approval to provide a Black rollerblind scissor type with 20" travel.

38" width.

A #68: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

69. Q:Section 3.12.1 Windshield Wipers and Washers: Is it acceptable to bid a windshield wiper system which has two individually controlled, two-speed, intermittent, electrically operated units? The wiper system is designed to provide two frequencies. The highest frequency is a minimum of 45 cycles/min.

The lower frequency is at least 20 cycles/min.

A #69: The second sentence of Section 3.12.1 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “Wipers shall be a minimum two-speed, intermittent system with variable intermittent control.”

70. Q:Section 3.13.4 Exterior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide a foot switch that prevents entry of moisture and contaminants but it is NOT water-proof?

A #70:Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

71. Q:Section 3.13.1 Exterior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide Dialight marker, clearance and side turn signals that are Dialight; the rear license plate light is Smartrend and the headlights are from JW Speaker.

A #71: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

72. Q:Section 3.13.2(3) Exterior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide 2 amber Dialight LED Lamps, 12 volt per side?

A #72: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

73. Q:Section 3.13.2(3) Exterior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide the low profile rear harness cover designed for GOSHEN? Due to the requirement for rear side turn signals aft of the rear wheelhouses, it is necessary to have surface mounted harness covers on the interior of bus around the rear wheelhouses to protect the harnessing which must be routed on the interior of the bus. The design of the sidewalls do not allow for the harnessing to be routed through the interior of the sidewalls.

A #73: The last sentence of Item 3 of Section 3.13.2 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “Exterior surface wiring is prohibited. Interior surface wiring shall be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Where interior surface wiring is necessary, it must be placed in conduit or other protected enclosure to prevent damage.”

74. Q:Section 3.14.1 & 2 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to bid interior passenger area panels as follows, inherent to the bus design, to minimize reflections on to the windshield, pier and dash panels are black:

1. Ceiling Panels (Aft of front wheelhouse) - Antique White Plastic

2. Ceiling Panels (above front wheelhouse) - Antique White Fiberglass

3. Pier Panels - Antique White Thermoplastic

4. Interior Sidewall - Charcoal Grey Gloss Melamine

A #74: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

75. Q:Section 3.14.3 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to provide interior trim that is a combination of the specified materials, depending on location and purpose? Vendor does not provide trim/cove moldings at the dash panels, rear step, rear wheelhouses or wall joints. The flooring at these locations is sealed with a clean butt joint.

A #75: Yes, assuming compliance with federal, state and local regulations, and that no other RCO specifications are compromised with this acceptance. Final determination will be made after bid opening.

76. Q:Section 3.14.6 Body-Interior: Colors can be changed based on the customer’s preference, is it acceptable to bid 1.25 inch 201 stainless steel stanchions in the following colors?:

Horizontal Stanchions - SST Finish Seat Stanchions - SST Finish Forward Curbside Wheelhouse - Yellow SST Forward Streetside Wheelhouse - Black SST Aft Curbside and Streetside Wheelhouse(s) - SST Finish

A #76: Yes, assuming compliance with federal, state and local regulations, and that no

77. Q:Section 3.14.7 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to bid: upper and lower deck grabrail heights which vary within a 6" range. The lower deck grabrail measures approximately 75" from the floor whereas the upper deck grabrail measures from 75" down to 69" due to the floor slope of the upper deck.

A #77: The third sentence of Section 3.14.7 of the RCO is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: “If the floor is raised at the rear of the bus, all reasonable efforts shall be made to adjust the grab rails adjacent to the rear access steps so that the grab-rail height above the floor is consistent throughout the bus.”

78. Q:Section 3.14.12 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to provide the following heights off the floor for the noted modesty panels:

1) Streetside at upper deck - approximately 8.2" off floor

2) Curbside fore of exit door - lower modesty panel is approximately 16.4" off the floor

3) Curbside aft of exit door -complies with specification with a 2" gap measured on the diagonal.

These are the same as provided on current Xcelsior buses.

A #78: The third sentence of Section 3.14.12 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “The modesty panel bottom shall be raised off the floor to allow for ease of cleaning, but not too high which would block any sight lines.”

Please further refer to Section 3.14.12 which states “Design to be reviewed by Orange County as pre-production meeting and shall not interfere with any operator mirror view of rear interior of bus.”

79. Q:Section 3.14.14 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to bid an an operator's coat hook which is chrome, not stainless-steel. This is the same as provided on current Xcelsior buses.

A #79: Section 3.14.14 of the RCO on page 61 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following sentence: “A large stainless-steel, or comparable material, operator’s coat hook with securing straps for the operator’s jacket shall be provided and located directly behind the operator in a convenient location and shall support the weight of a heavy winter jacket.”

80. Q: Section 3.14.18 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to bid a front dash panel, and entrance door mech box panel which are made of black thermoform plastic. This provides a dull and non-reflective finish around the driver and further provides ease of cleaning and maintenance. The side console to the left of the driver is fabricated from aluminum sheet and is covered with a black decal which is custom created to match each customer's switch configuration. This is the same as provided on current Xcelsior buses.

A #80: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

81. Q:Section 3.14.20 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to provide a 9.5 x 6 registration holder (clear polycarbonate) that is mounted on the forward location of the SDS enclosure.

A #81: Per Section 3.14.20 of the RCO, the installation of the holder shall be “at a location subject to the review of Orange County” and can be discussed at the pre-production meeting with the successful Offeror.

Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require detailed

82. Q:Section 3.14.21 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to bid on connecting the chime system to the PLC system (instead of connecting it through the run control switch only)? This allows for programming the chime system to activate an audible alert and activate 'Stop Request' when the Master Run Switch is in "DAY RUN" or "NIGHT RUN" positions.

A #82: The second sentence of Section 3.14.21 of the RCO is hereby deleted and replaced with the following: “Chime shall be connected through run control switch, or equal system.”

Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material, or component for one specified in the RCO (i.e., a request for “approved equal”), require

83. Q:Section 3.14.29 Body-Interior: Is it acceptable to provide a driver's storage compartment that is located above the seated driver, not on the floor beside the seat, and meets the specified dimensions? There is insufficient room on the floor between the driver's seat and side console to provide the specified box. The largest box we can fit in this location measures 2.62 x 10.31 x 3.75 inches. Note that the locker is made of formed black plastic and is not painted.

A #83: Yes, assuming compliance with federal, state and local regulations, and that no other RCO specifications are compromised with this acceptance. The appropriateness of the proposed location and options will be determined after bid opening.

84. Q:Section 3.15.1 Interior Lighting: Is it acceptable to bid an interior LED lighting system which has pre-set brightness settings as opposed to using built in photo sensors to adjust the interior light levels. Photo sensors are no longer offered by our lighting vendors. Please note that our interior lighting system allows for dim mode in 5% increments of light output and can be adjusted manually.

A #84: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

85. Q:Section 3.15.4 Interior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide interior LED lighting which has translucent polycarbonate lens covers? The lense covers have been designed to effectively “mask” the light source.

A #85: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

86. Q:Section 3.15.4 Interior Lighting: Is it acceptable to provide interior LED lighting which has lighting lenses which are retained and secured with internal hex (Allen) fasteners.

A #86: In reference to Section 3.15.4 of the RCO, upon review with our Consultant, the method described above is acceptable.

87. Q:Section 3.17.4 Operator Protection System: Is it acceptable to provide an anti-glare coating on the driver's protection system glass that is not pyrolytic? For a coating to be deemed pyrolytic, it needs to be applied when the glass is still semi-molten. The anti-glare coating on the specified AROWGuard MAX Driver Protection System is instead applied at a high temperature in a vacuum coater, resulting in a durable, tightly bonded coating which reduces the interior and exterior light reflectance to less than 2%. Glass in the thickness available for this application is not available with a pyrolytic anti-glare coating.

A #87: Requests to approve or questions regarding use of an alternative product, material,

88. Q:Section 3.18.1 Passenger Seats: Per information from American Seating, black is not an available option. Is it acceptable to bid the Insight passenger seat frames with powder coated stainless steel texture color?

A #88: to The second sentence in Section 3.18.1 of the RCO is deleted in it entirety and replaced by the following: “Frame shall be cantilevered from the wall and shall be stainless steel or aluminum, primed and painted or powder coated per manufacturer’s standards.”

89. Q:Section 3.18.4 Passenger Seats: Per information from American Seating, grab handles are not offset but are a direct extension of the seat back panel. Is it acceptable to bid these Insight seats?

A #89: The sentence “Aisle end of the grab rail shall be offset to provide for a handhold” is hereby deleted from Section 3.18.4 of the RCO.

90. Q:Section 3.18.9 Passenger Seats: For the 35’ bus there is insufficient space to provide a single-slip seat for strollers on either the curb or streetside of the bus. Due to the wheelchair restraint requirements and the need for floor heaters under the seats fore and across from the exit door, it is not possible to provide flip seats in the specified locations. For this reason, we request approval to delete the requirement for flip seats on the 35' bus.

A #90: In reference to Section 3.18.9 of the RCO, the proposed method is acceptable, as long as ADA accessibility requirements are met.

91. Q:Section 3.19.11 Wiring and Multiplexing: Vendor proposal is based on using a manual reset magnetic circuit breakers (as opposed to thermal circuit breakers) for high temperature application.

Is this acceptable to bid on? Here are some of the reasons why:

-1. Magnetic circuit breakers are less affected by ambient temperature changes.

-2. Magnetic breakers can respond more quickly and accurately to overcurrent conditions. This can be crucial in protecting sensitive vehicle electronics -3. Magnetic breakers are less likely to trip due to temporary surges or high ambient temperatures.

A #91:The first sentence of Section 3.19.1.1 of the RCO is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: “All circuits shall be protected by manual reset circuit breakers where possible. In the event it is impossible to protect a circuit with a circuit breaker, a fuse may be used. All locations where a fuse is used opposed to a circuit breaker must be identified in the bid submission.”

92. Q:Section 3.19.1.1 Wiring and Multiplexing: Is it acceptable to bid fuses in the fan harnesses to protect the circuits between the power studs and electric components on the system? The location on the system prevents the application of manual reset circuit breakers.

A #92: Please refer to Answer to Question 91.

93. Q:Section 3.19.1.2 Wiring and Multiplexing: Is it acceptable to provide harnesses that are color coded, not hot stamped or ink-jet labeled with circuit identification?

A #93: Section 3.19.1.2 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: “All wiring shall be properly grouped, hot-stamped or permanent ink-jet printed number-coded every 6 inches, or color coded by means of color impregnated insulation, and shall be installed to permit ease of replacement. If wire color is the sole identifier, no duplication of colors shall be permitted within a single harness. Color-coding shall be continuous for the entire circuit except in those segments where circuits are multiplexed.”

94. Q:Section 3.19.1.2 Wiring and Multiplexing: Is it acceptable to provide Vapor door system wiring that is non color-coded wiring? Each wire will be marked for ease of wire identification.

A #94: Please refer to Answer to Question #93.

95. Q:Section 3.19.1.2 Wiring and Multiplexing: Is it acceptable to provide duplication of colors within a single harness as provided in previous builds? Vendor bid is based on using the following colors as per application:

- Blue for 12VDC

- Red for 24VDC

- Yellow for PLC inputs

- Tan for outputs and signals

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