C25910011-Ventura Jr. Lifeguard Bus Service

The California Department of Parks and Recreation, Channel Coast District, is soliciting bids for bus transportation services to support the Ventura Junior Lifeguard Program through contract C25910011. The procurement covers bus services for program participants during field trips in 2026 and 2027, specifically including three scheduled trips to Carpinteria State Beach on June 19, July 10, and July 24, 2026, each transporting approximately 300 participants using approximately 6 buses. Key service requirements include twice-daily transportation with morning pickups at 0900 hours and return times between 1500 and 1600 hours, with buses mandated to be equipped with seatbelts for all participants. Contractors must maintain a Commercial B driver's license with passenger endorsement and provide transportation from San Buenaventura State Beach located at 901 San Pedro Street, Ventura, California. The bid is due on December 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with bids accepted via email at ccdbid@parks.ca.gov or by mail to the Channel Coast District office. Evaluation will focus on the lowest responsible bidder who complies with all prescribed requirements, with the contract term extending from June 19, 2026, through August 31, 2027.

The solicitation encourages participation from Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE), though DVBE participation is not mandatory, with potential incentives available for qualified vendors. A five percent small business preference is available for bidders certified by the California Department of General Services, with options for non-certified small businesses to qualify by subcontracting a minimum of 25 percent of the total bid amount to certified small businesses. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and motor vehicle liability insurance with combined single limits of not less than $1,000,000 per accident, with all insurance companies required to maintain an A.M. Best rating of A- or better. Bidders must submit a comprehensive package including multiple forms such as the Service Bid Form, Small Business Subcontractor Participation Worksheet, DVBE Participation form, DARFUR Contracting Act Certification, and Artificial Intelligence Disclosure. While specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive requirements suggest a significant transportation service contract with potential flexibility, as the Department reserves the right to decrease the number of buses with five days' advance notice based on participant enrollment.