Elliot Life Rafts - Erie Maritime Museum

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is requesting quotes for two Elliot life rafts for installation on the US Brig Niagara at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, with electronic bids due September 4, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. The Reciprocal Limitations Act applies — bidders must complete form GSPUR-89 for bids exceeding $10,000 and disclose state or country of manufacture; Pennsylvania resident bidders may claim preference under the established reciprocal framework.

Each life raft must have a capacity of 25 persons, comply with USCG and SOLAS 1996 "A pack" standards, be housed in a round barrel container, and include a deck-mount cradle and hydrostatic release. The scope calls for the same make and model as the existing two life rafts currently aboard the vessel. Pricing must include drop-shipment freight to 150 E. Front Street, Suite 100, Erie, PA 16507, though minor variations to quoted freight costs may be accepted if final costs are determined on delivery. All items must be new or remanufactured, conforming to specifications, and warranted for one year following delivery and acceptance.

The Commonwealth will award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Bid responses must include total unit price, detailed equipment information and price breakdowns, signed copies of any addenda, the Reciprocal Limitations Act form (for bids exceeding $10,000), and the Workers Protection & Investment Certification Form (BOP-2201). Questions are due by 9:00 a.m. on August 26, 2026 to Trish Frey; all questions and answers will be posted as addenda to the invitation for bid. Payment will be made via Automated Clearing House within thirty days of receipt of a proper invoice following inspection and acceptance, provided the selected bidder must register in Pennsylvania's Vendor Master file. Delivery is required within thirty days of purchase order issuance unless otherwise specified. The contract is an Established Price Contract governed by Pennsylvania law.