Dielectric & structural testing

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Purchases, is soliciting bids on behalf of its Division of Equipment for dielectric and structural testing services under RFB 605 2700000160, with bids due November 4, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Kentucky resident bidder preference under KRS 45A.494 and qualified bidder preferences under 200 KAR 5:410 may apply, including a 20 percent preference for Kentucky Correctional Industries, a 15 percent preference for qualified nonprofit agencies serving individuals with severe disabilities, and a preference for Kentucky Industries for the Blind.

The second RFB file moves the closing date from November 2, 2026 in the first version to November 4, 2026, and designates the Kentucky Vendor Self Service portal for electronic submission, replacing the Kentucky eProcurement System named in the first version. Bidders must bid both line items, or the bid is non-responsive.

The line items are an estimated 36 annual structural analysis tests and 36 annual AC dielectric tests, primarily on aerial and bucket trucks with one boom-mounted tree trimmer. AC dielectric testing follows 69 kV, 50 kV, 35 kV, and 21 kV protocols. Structural testing uses magnetic particle and ultrasonic testing on critical welded areas and components. Testing must comply with current OSHA requirements and occurs at various KYTC locations from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor is not required to transport equipment. Billing goes to the C-1 Garage Branch Manager in Frankfort, Kentucky, with F.O.B. destination, freight prepaid and allowed.

The solicitation specifies no contract value. It is a master agreement with an initial term from January 1, 2027 through January 31, 2028, plus four optional one-year renewals by mutual written agreement. Prices are firm for the first twelve months, and later increases require industry-wide justification and thirty days' written notice. Payment is due within thirty working days of invoice receipt and acceptance of services. Required insurance includes commercial general liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, automobile liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence if applicable, and Kentucky workers' compensation. Bidders must submit affidavits covering resident bidder status (if claimed), campaign finance compliance, employee immigration status, and artificial intelligence usage.

Award will be made on a best value basis using price alone, with the lowest-priced bidder receiving the maximum 100 points. Written questions were due October 19, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The tentative award date is November 15, 2026.