Calibration and Correlation of Skid System

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has issued Request for Proposal 25-850 seeking calibration, correlation, maintenance, and repair services for its pavement friction test (skid) systems. The primary deliverables include annual two-sided skid system calibration and correlation performed in accordance with ASTM E-274 and E-2793 standards, with correlation to a nationally recognized Area Reference Skid Measurement System (ARSMS), testing on both E-501 tires (left side) and E-524 tires (right side), provision of operator assistance for up to 4-hour shift increments if needed, minor out-of-scope repairs necessary to enable calibration, and comprehensive system maintenance and inspection addressing brakes, suspension, air supply, water supply, and gauge components. The key objectives include ensuring accurate and consistent friction measurement data across MDOT's equipment through calibration at three designated speeds (20, 40, and 60 mph) with full correlation testing and documentation, with all contract activities completed within 180 business days from receipt of order and final reports due within 30 days of calibration completion. The successful bidder must be an ASTM E-17 Committee recognized calibration center and must submit a Vendor Questions Worksheet, accept standard contract terms, complete Schedule A with required responses, and submit Schedule B pricing with firm rates for a 365-day period from the effective date. Pricing proposals are due by 3:00 p.m. Eastern on January 10, 2025, with questions from bidders due by December 30, 2024, and anticipated answers posted by January 2, 2025. The contract term is three years with an anticipated begin date of January 24, 2025, expiring January 23, 2028, with no renewal options. The evaluation process is conducted on a PASS/FAIL basis, and the State reserves the right to conduct facility inspections or oral presentations and to award the contract to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the best value.

The RFP contains no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, though the requirement to be an ASTM E-17 Committee recognized calibration center effectively restricts bidding to qualified technical organizations. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the documentation provided. The estimated contract budget is reflected in Schedule B Pricing, which establishes a maximum of $10,000 for out-of-scope repairs over the three-year contract period, with expected quantities for calibration and correlation services ranging from 3 to 12 units depending on the specific service line item and actual needs approved by the MDOT Program Manager. The pricing schedule requires bidders to submit unit prices and extended prices for all line items, including setup charges, shipping, and handling, with all costs to be included in the proposal. Payment will be made through Electronic Funds Transfer within 45 days of receipt of conforming invoices, and contractors are encouraged to offer quick payment discount terms if invoices are paid within a specified number of days. All proposals become public record upon receipt, subject to Michigan's Freedom of Information Act exemptions for trade secrets and proprietary information.