BSC Athletic Charter Bus

Bismarck State College (BSC) is seeking proposals for an athletic charter bus through a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued on September 15, 2025, with submissions due by September 30, 2025. The procurement targets a new or designated preowned MCI or PREVOST bus with no more than 150,000 miles to support the college's athletics department, serving sports including baseball, basketball, wrestling, cross country, softball, track and field, and volleyball. The evaluation process will utilize a 100-point scoring system, with 60 points allocated to the technical proposal and 40 points to the cost proposal. Prospective vendors must provide comprehensive information about their expertise, including at least three references from similar institutional clients. The RFP requires detailed submissions covering bus interior and exterior features, engine and mechanical specifications, and risk management considerations. The contract is scheduled to commence on approximately October 1, 2025, with a closure date of March 1, 2026. Evaluation criteria will emphasize product quality, availability, value-added options, and the vendor's qualifications and experience in charter bus sales.

The solicitation appears to be open to all qualified vendors without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. The budget for this procurement is approximately $550,000, to be paid as a cash offer. No incumbent vendors are explicitly mentioned in the documentation. The RFP focuses on supporting the college's mission of empowering student-athletes and representing the institution in the Upper Midwest region through reliable transportation. Vendors will need to demonstrate their ability to meet the specific transportation needs of the BSC Athletics Department, with proposals potentially requiring a presentation and possible site visit component. The selected bus must meet the comprehensive specifications outlined in the RFP, ensuring it can effectively support the college's athletic program's transportation requirements.