DOTD Labs Proficiency Sample Program

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is soliciting emailed bids for an annual contract to provide Asphalt Mixture Proficiency Samples and Associated Testing and Analysis, covering East Baton Rouge Parish and Baton Rouge City. The procurement seeks a contractor to deliver 150 asphalt mixture samples for biannual proficiency certification testing and statistical analysis for lab technicians. The required testing includes maximum specific gravity, bulk specific gravity, asphalt binder content, aggregate gradation, and loaded wheel testing using established AASHTO and ASTM test methods. Samples must be made with Louisiana-typical aggregate and meet specific technical specifications. The contract period will run from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, with potential extensions for two additional twelve-month periods, not to exceed thirty-six (36) months total. Bids must be emailed to alice.smith@la.gov by September 11, 2025, with the RFx No. included in the subject line. Vendors must submit unit pricing per sample, with prices not exceeding two digits to the right of the decimal point.

Vendors must be registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State prior to award and are encouraged to accept Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payments. While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, contractors must comply with federal and state regulations, including civil rights laws, ADA accessibility requirements, and E-Verify provisions. The Department reserves the right to cancel the contract with thirty (30) days written notice and to adjust the quantity of samples needed at the stated unit price. Though a specific budget range is not provided, the contract will cover testing services for 150 lab technicians across two annual testing cycles. Potential contractors should have expertise in asphalt mixture preparation, testing, and analysis, with the capability to produce samples that meet rigorous technical specifications typical of Louisiana's transportation infrastructure requirements. The procurement appears designed to ensure consistent quality and proficiency in asphalt mixture testing across the state's transportation laboratory network.