Electronic Helicopter Dolly System

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 802-25-64180-R for the procurement of one Electronic Helicopter Dolly System for its Law Enforcement Aviation unit in Austin, Texas. The solicitation seeks a mobile, remote-controlled platform specifically designed to move helicopters on the ground with precise specifications. Required system characteristics include a size range between 16' x 16' and 17' 3" x 17' 3", a 100% electric power source, wireless remote control operation, minimum four-hour continuous run time, and a weight capacity of at least 9,000 pounds. Bidders must provide a unit price, specify the exact model, include warranty details, and provide an estimated delivery date. The bid is scheduled to be due on August 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM CT, with the contract commencing upon issuance and automatically expiring after delivery and final acceptance by TPWD. The department will evaluate bids based on best value, considering factors such as lowest price, vendor qualifications, delivery schedule, and past performance.

The solicitation indicates potential preferences for Texas bidders and historically underutilized businesses (HUB), suggesting opportunities for disadvantaged enterprises. While no specific budget range is disclosed, the specialized nature of the electronic helicopter dolly system implies a significant procurement investment. TPWD reserves the right to award the contract based on comprehensive evaluation criteria that extend beyond simple price considerations. The procurement appears open to qualified vendors capable of meeting the technical specifications and demonstrating ability to provide a high-performance, reliable mobile platform for helicopter ground movement. The system's sophisticated requirements suggest that potential bidders will need advanced engineering capabilities, experience with specialized transportation equipment, and the ability to integrate complex electric and remote-control technologies into a robust, industrial-grade platform.