December Produce

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, specifically the State Correctional Institution at Cresson located in Cambria County, is soliciting bids for a produce procurement contract covering the month of December 2011. The Request for Quotation (RFQ) seeks competitive bids for a comprehensive range of fresh fruits and vegetables, including apples, bananas, grapefruit, oranges, pears, tangerines, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, onions, peppers, potatoes, radishes, salad mix, and tomatoes. The procurement requires detailed specifications for each produce item, including precise grade, size, and packaging requirements. Vendors must submit pricing on a unit and total price basis, with bids due by November 10, 2011, and the contract period covering deliveries scheduled between December 6, 2011 and December 27, 2011. The contract will be awarded on a group basis, with vendors required to meet specific delivery time and condition requirements.

The solicitation does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on potential bidders, nor does it mention incumbent vendors or existing infrastructure requirements. While the specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the produce procurement suggests a moderate-value contract for institutional food service. Potential bidders must carefully review the detailed specifications in the RFQ, particularly focusing on the precise quantity, quality, and delivery requirements for each produce item. Additionally, contractors must be prepared to comply with the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (RTKL) provisions, which require providing access to contract-related documents within 14 calendar days of a request and indemnifying the Commonwealth for any information-related damages. The RTKL compliance obligations extend beyond the contract's expiration, contingent on the contractor's possession of requested information.