Emergency Ride Services

Pinellas County Emergency Management is seeking transportation providers for Emergency Ride Services through Invitation to Quote (ITQ) #23-0789-ITQ. The procurement focuses on ride-share services to support emergency preparedness and response across multiple scenarios, including pre- and post-tropical storms, health-related emergencies, and other incidents requiring citizen transportation. Vendors must provide at least three transport-capable vehicles that can accommodate mobility-challenged residents, personal belongings, durable medical equipment, and limited pet transportation (cats and dogs). Key requirements include maintaining 24/7 availability, implementing a formal driver selection process with background checks, and providing detailed post-event reporting. Vendors must be registered with the Florida Division of Corporations and submit comprehensive pricing proposals based on a mileage-driven structure, including rates for one-way trips ranging from 0.1 to 25+ miles, as well as pricing for 12 and 24-hour operational shifts and stand-by time. The solicitation was released on June 20, 2023, with a question submission deadline of July 11, 2023, and a response deadline of July 13, 2023, at 3:00 pm.

The procurement features a Sheltered Market designation, providing first opportunity to qualified Small Business Enterprise (SBE) firms located in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Manatee Counties for contracts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Potential vendors must submit vendor references from at least four previous clients demonstrating similar service capabilities, with the explicit stipulation that Pinellas County government references will not be accepted. The county will thoroughly vet these references through direct contact via email, fax, or phone to assess vendor capabilities. Vendors are also required to indicate willingness to participate in the county's ePayables credit card program for expedited payment processing. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the contract appears designed to establish a roster of pre-qualified emergency transportation providers. Payment terms are set at net 45 days per Florida Statute 218.73, and vendors must agree to all solicitation terms and insurance requirements. The procurement emphasizes selecting the lowest responsive and responsible submittal that meets the specified emergency transportation service requirements.