Admissions buses

Western Carolina University, a North Carolina state agency, is issuing an Invitation for Bid (IFB #73-IFB-00770) to procure two 2026 or newer Grech GM-33 28-passenger shuttle buses built on Ford F-600 diesel chassis. The buses will support the university's admissions and enrollment outreach efforts by providing safe, reliable, and professional transportation for prospective students, families, and guests during campus admission tours. The buses must meet specific technical specifications including 19.5" painted steel wheels, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, rooftop air conditioning with TM-21 compressor, electronic 5-speed automatic transmission, backup camera and alarm, emergency roof escape hatch, Level 5 vinyl fabric seating, and digital thermostat HVAC controls. The solicitation offers two bidding options: Option 1 for unwrapped buses and Option 2 for buses with approved WCU wrapping. The exterior color must be black or white with black interior. Vendors must be North Carolina registered and in good standing, provide a signed statement confirming manufacturer authorization, submit at least three customer references for the exact model offered, provide descriptive literature with certifications, and complete financial stability certifications. Evaluation will be based on lowest price meeting specifications, with consideration given to vendor past performance, references, and financial stability. Written questions are due by April 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET with responses provided by April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Bids must be submitted electronically via Microsoft Teams by May 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET, with public bid opening occurring at the same date and time. Delivery must be completed by June 15, 2026, FOB destination to Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina, during business hours with installation completed before delivery is considered final.

No specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises are identified in the solicitation documents. Vendors must complete North Carolina Secretary of State registration within 10 business days of award notification. The manufacturer's standard warranty applies with a minimum 12-month warranty period or the length of the manufacturer's warranty, whichever is longer. Bid pricing shall constitute the total cost to the state including all applicable charges for shipping, delivery, handling, and administrative fees, exclusive of any pending tariffs or temporary tariff surcharges that may be negotiated separately. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are referenced in the solicitation materials. The contract term is set for one year from the effective date, and no specific budget range or award value is disclosed in the available documentation. Vendors should note that all responsive bids will be evaluated with contract award anticipated following bid evaluation completion.