CI-268 Field Trip Charter & Transportation Services (multi-year)

California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is seeking charter and transportation services through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) designated as CI-268, targeting field trip transportation needs across Southern California. The procurement aims to establish contracts with up to three vendors capable of providing charter bus and van transportation for university-sponsored academic and co-curricular field trips, with an anticipated service volume of approximately 20-30 trips per academic year. Vendors must meet comprehensive service requirements, including specific vehicle specifications involving full-size charter buses, smaller charter buses, and vans, with strict standards for vehicle cleanliness and emissions compliance. The evaluation process will utilize a weighted scoring system assessing vendor capabilities across multiple categories: experience (25 points), fleet capabilities and safety (25 points), pricing (25 points), understanding of service requirements (15 points), and references (10 points). The RFP is scheduled for release on September 9, 2025, with proposals due on October 1, 2025, by 2:00 PM PST, and an anticipated service commencement in November 2025. Vendors will be expected to demonstrate expertise in higher education transportation, robust safety protocols, and a comprehensive service approach.

The solicitation includes potential bid preferences for certified Small Businesses (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE), with up to 10 points available for each certification, bringing the total possible evaluation points to 220. These set-aside designations provide opportunities for qualifying businesses to compete more favorably in the procurement process. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed in the provided documentation, the three-year fixed pricing agreement includes an option to extend for two additional years, contingent upon performance, funding availability, and mutual agreement. The procurement is geographically focused on Ventura County, California, with primary service areas concentrated in Southern California but with potential for expanded regional transportation needs. Vendors must be prepared to provide well-maintained, compliant vehicles with qualified drivers and a demonstrated track record of reliable transportation services in academic or similar institutional settings.