DHS IFB ISD 66 passenger and 72 passenger buses-REBID

The Illinois Department of Human Services is issuing an Invitation for Bid (IFB B-50675) for the purchase of two passenger buses to support the Illinois School for the Deaf (ISD) in Sangamon County. The procurement seeks one 66-passenger bus equipped with a wheelchair lift and one 71-passenger bus, both meeting specifications comparable to Thomas Safe-T-Liner or Blue Bird RE conventional buses. The buses must be equipped with diesel engines certified for B5 biodiesel fuel, Allison automatic transmissions, air suspension, driver comfort features, extensive safety equipment, climate control systems, and camera systems with docking stations in each vehicle. Extended warranties must cover towing for six months and replacement buses for repeat problems, with delivery required to the CMS garage at 640 North Lincoln Avenue, Springfield, Illinois by June 30, 2026. Award will be made to the lowest priced responsive and responsible bidder, with bids remaining firm for 90 days from opening. All bids must be submitted electronically through BidBuy by January 22, 2026, and vendors must include required documentation including Vendor Disclosure or IPG Active Registered Vendor Disclosure forms. Written questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted by 5 p.m. on January 15, 2026. The contract term runs from the date of last signature through June 30, 2026, with a maximum total term not to exceed ten years including any renewal or extension options.

No specific set-asides for minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or small business enterprises are indicated as checked in the procurement documents, though vendors may claim applicable Illinois Procurement Code preferences including the Illinois Business Preference and Domestic Product Preference by completing required affidavits and notations. Vendors are required to maintain active registration in the Illinois Procurement Gateway (IPG) or complete a comprehensive Vendor Disclosure form covering business information, compliance certifications, and financial disclosures for contracts exceeding $100,000 in annual value. For contracts valued at $1,000 or more, awarded bidders must pay a $15 Minority Contractor Opportunity Initiative fee to be deducted from the first payment. Vendors must carry general commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and workers' compensation insurance as required by law, with the State named as additionally insured. No bid bonds or performance bonds are required, and subcontracting is not permitted under this contract. The State may fund this contract partially or entirely with Federal funds, with specific percentages and amounts to be disclosed upon notice of award, though the exact contract value and budget range are not specified in the solicitation documents.