August Produce

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, specifically the State Correctional Institution at Cresson located in Cambria County, is seeking bids for a produce procurement contract covering the month of August 2010. The Invitation for Bids (IFB) details a comprehensive produce order encompassing 22 line items of fresh fruits and vegetables, including apples, bananas, cantaloupes, grapefruit, oranges, peaches, pears, watermelon, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, onions, peppers, potatoes, radishes, and tomatoes. The solicitation requires vendors to provide specific quantities of each produce item with detailed specifications regarding grade, size, and container requirements. All bids are due by July 16, 2010, with scheduled deliveries planned from August 3 to August 31, 2010. Delivery requirements mandate that all produce must be delivered before 9:30 AM on scheduled dates, and vendors must ensure their shipments are easily accessible for unloading by the facility's forklift. The contract will be awarded on a group basis, with all pricing to be submitted on a unit and total item basis, and all prices to be F.O.B. destination.

The procurement documents do not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the solicitation includes a comprehensive Right-to-Know Law document that outlines the contractor's obligations to provide access to documents and information upon request by the Commonwealth. The contractor must comply with providing requested information within 14 calendar days and cannot challenge the Commonwealth's determination of public record status. Although a specific budget range is not provided, the detailed line-item specification suggests a structured procurement process with clear expectations for product quality, quantity, and delivery. The vendor will be responsible for meeting precise product specifications and delivery requirements, with the understanding that non-compliance could result in contract termination or future bidding restrictions.