28 and 36 Passenger Buses Multi-Year Contract

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for a multi-year contract to procure 28 and 36 passenger buses, with the solicitation open from June 27, 2018, to August 15, 2018, under bid number MDT-312929-RP. The procurement opportunity covered bus purchases across eight different districts, with detailed specifications required for each vehicle, including make, model, year, body type, ceiling height, floor type, chassis details, seating configurations, and wheelchair accommodations. Bidders were mandated to submit comprehensive documentation, including federal certifications, Altoona Surface Transportation tests, and client reference forms. The procurement process demanded strict compliance with specific requirements, such as motor vehicle pollution standards and transportation vehicle commodity codes. Evaluation criteria included pricing for both bus types, delivery costs to each district, and submission of an options ancillary equipment pricing sheet.

The solicitation incorporated disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) guidelines, suggesting opportunities for smaller or minority-owned businesses to participate in the bidding process. Creative Bus Sales, Inc. was ultimately awarded the contract for $292,991.00, indicating the potential contract value for similar procurements. Federal regulations played a significant role in the procurement, with strict adherence required for certifications and documentation. The contract was specifically focused on serving Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks' Region 4 in Great Falls and surrounding areas, targeting transportation needs for governmental operations. While the specific set-aside designations were not explicitly detailed, the comprehensive requirements suggest a competitive bidding environment that prioritized technical compliance, pricing, and ability to meet specific transportation infrastructure needs.