Commuter Bus Route 203

The Maryland Transit Administration is requesting bids for commuter bus operations on Route 203 under IFB OPS-27-034-SR, with bids due October 9, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. via eMaryland Marketplace Advantage, and an MBE participation goal of 5 percent (8.34 percent with the 60 percent commodity rule) of total contract value.

The scope is scheduled intrastate and interstate commuter bus transportation services on a single route. The contractor must operate coaches directly; subcontracting is prohibited for coach operations, though other contract requirements may be subcontracted. Bidders must demonstrate relevant bus transportation experience within the past five years and provide three references. The contractor must hold a Federal Employer Identification Number and maintain current SDAT registration with the State of Maryland.

The contract term is five years with one optional two-year renewal, preceded by approximately 15 days for mobilization prior to Go-Live. This is a Firm Fixed Price contract with no federal funding. The contractor must maintain comprehensive insurance including Commercial General Liability at $5 million per occurrence, Workers' Compensation, and Commercial Automobile Liability at $5 million per occurrence, with the MTA named as additional insured. A performance bond of $100,000 is required.

The contract is subject to Maryland's Living Wage requirements and the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act. Monthly invoicing must include ridership data, revenue miles operated, fuel reimbursement documentation, and MBE compliance reports. Liquidated damages provisions apply for failure to meet contract terms and MBE participation requirements. Payments are made by Electronic Funds Transfer and are subject to Maryland's Prompt Payment Policy and Commercial Nondiscrimination requirements.

A pre-bid conference is scheduled for August 21, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. via Microsoft Teams. Written questions are due by August 27, 2026 at 2:00 P.M.