FY25 Message Boards, Arrow Boards

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is seeking bids for a one-time procurement of trailer-mounted traffic control equipment, specifically solar-powered LED message boards and arrow boards for highway maintenance operations. The solicitation (B-45875) covers two primary equipment types: 4' x 8' rectangular solar-powered LED traffic control arrow panels with remote communication capabilities, and full-matrix LED changeable message boards with 8-inch characters visible from 1,000 feet. Vendors must be established manufacturers or authorized dealers with at least two years of manufacturing experience, capable of providing prompt parts and service within Illinois. Key technical requirements include GPS tracking, battery monitoring, NTCIP compliance, 360-degree rotation capabilities, and the ability to operate autonomously for 30 days when fully charged. The equipment must withstand 80 MPH winds, be mountable on trailers capable of highway speeds up to 65 MPH, and come with comprehensive warranties including five-year coverage on components and ten-year coverage on lamps. The bid is due on January 16, 2025, with bids required to be submitted electronically through the BidBuy system, and vendors must remain firm on their pricing for 90 days from the bid opening.

The procurement includes a Buy America certification requirement, mandating that all steel, iron, and manufactured products be produced in the United States, with exceptions for availability, price differential exceeding 12%, or quality considerations. A $15 fee is required for the Minority Contractor Initiative for contracts awarded at $1,000 or more, suggesting potential set-aside or preferential considerations for disadvantaged business enterprises. Vendors must provide $1,000,000 per occurrence in General Commercial Liability and Auto Liability insurance, along with mandatory Worker's Compensation Insurance. The contract will be awarded to the lowest priced responsive and responsible bidder, with awards made by lowest line item price. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the solicitation covers equipment that will be procured for the Cook County jurisdiction and potentially other areas within Illinois. The contract term begins upon final signature and runs through June 30, 2026, with delivery expected during regular work week hours (8:00 am - 2:00 pm) to locations specified in the BidBuy system.