Balsa Wood (TRAC Bridge Building Component) FY19

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) issued this Request for Proposal on January 24, 2019, to procure balsa wood building components for the TRAC Bridge Building program. The procurement requires 2,000 bundles of balsa wood, with each bundle containing 50 pieces measuring 1/8" x 1/8" x 36" and weighing approximately 1.81 grams per stick. All deliverables must be shipped to the MDOT Superior Region Office at 1818 Third Avenue North, Escanaba, Michigan 49829, with a delivery deadline of March 15, 2019. The bidder question deadline is January 30, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and proposals must be submitted electronically through www.michigan.gov/SIGMAVSS by February 4, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The anticipated contract begin date is February 7, 2019, and all contract activities must be completed within 40 business days from receipt of order. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the best value, defined as meeting minimum point thresholds and offering the lowest price. Pricing must be firm for the entire contract term with all costs, including shipping and handling, included in proposals.

Qualified disabled veteran (QDV) status under MCL 18.1261(8) will be considered during evaluation, indicating a potential set-aside or preference for this designated group. No specific incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the procurement documents. The State reserves the right to conduct facility inspections, require oral presentations, perform reference checks, and request additional price concessions as part of the evaluation process. Contractors must maintain a toll-free customer service number staffed during business hours and designate a Contractor Representative for State inquiries. Liquidated damages of $5,000 plus $100 per day will be assessed for late or improper completion, and payment will be made via Electronic Funds Transfer within 45 days of invoice receipt. No specific budget range or award value is stated in the solicitation documents.