1 year contract for School Buses - TYPE C & D

The State of Maine Department of Education is requesting bids on a one-year contract for school buses (Types C and D) with proposals due June 28, 2012, under a contract term running July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013. In cases of tied bids, preference is given to in-state bidders or those offering Maine-manufactured commodities.

The scope covers conventional Type C buses with 66–78 passenger capacity and Type D buses with 84-passenger capacity. All buses must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), Maine Department of Education Chapter 81 standards, Maine school bus inspection standards, and California exhaust emission standards (Title 13, California Code of Regulations Section 1956.8). Type C engines must be diesel-rated at minimum 190 horsepower for 72-passenger or smaller buses and 205 horsepower for larger capacities; Type D engines must be diesel-rated at minimum 205 horsepower with five-speed automatic Allison transmissions. Both types require dual air brakes with heated dryers, ADA-compliant wheelchair lifts where applicable, 8-light warning systems, heating and defrosting systems, emergency egress equipment, lead-free wheel weights, and EPA and CARB emissions certifications. Comprehensive options are available at additional cost, including high-capacity fuel tanks, air ride suspension, enhanced lighting packages, surveillance systems, and specialized seating.

Bidders must submit separate unit prices for each item delivered to destination with all trade or quantity discounts included. Cash discounts of 20 days or more will be considered in determining the low bidder. The State is exempt from Federal and Maine State Sales and Use Taxes. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering the best value, with consideration given to product quality, conformity to specifications, delivery dates, and overall economy. Electronic submissions close at 2:00 p.m. local time on the due date. The Division of Purchases reserves the right to reject any or all quotes, waive formalities and technicalities, and increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%.