40 Foot Low Floor CNG or BEB Transit Buses- FTA Funded

The City of Tucson, Arizona, located in Pima County, is seeking proposals for the procurement of 40-foot low-floor transit buses, specifically requesting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Battery Electric Bus (BEB) models for its Sun Tran public transportation system. The solicitation, numbered 230011 and funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), aims to replace existing transit vehicles with a fleet meeting a 12-year or 500,000-mile useful service life. The initial order is for up to 20 buses, with potential options for up to 100 additional buses. Deliverables include comprehensive documentation such as 400 operator manuals, 20 maintenance manuals, wiring diagrams, parts catalogs, diagnostic software, and specialized tools. The procurement requires extensive training programs, including 520 initial instructor training hours, with additional refresher and base training in subsequent years. The proposal submission deadline is November 30, 2022, at 2:00 PM local time, with a non-mandatory pre-proposal virtual meeting previously held on September 29, 2022. Evaluation criteria will involve separate assessments for CNG and BEB buses, with the potential to award to a single qualified supplier.

The contract includes several set-aside and diversity provisions, particularly through HUD's Section 3 Program, which mandates that 25% of total labor hours must be performed by Section 3 Workers, with 5% specifically by Targeted Section 3 Workers. Contractors must prioritize hiring from low- and very low-income populations, with specific income limits and certification requirements. The procurement emphasizes compliance with federal regulations, including Buy America provisions, disadvantaged business enterprise requirements, and strict non-discrimination standards. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the contract allows for potential volume discounts and aims to standardize bus selection to reduce annual procurement processes. Though a precise budget range is not explicitly stated, the procurement involves significant federal funding and allows for potential expansion up to 100 buses. Contractors must demonstrate extensive experience in transit bus manufacturing and provide comprehensive documentation of qualifications, technical specifications, warranties, and compliance with federal and local requirements, with potential consequences for non-compliance including contract termination and debarment.