Heavy Duty Underlift Tow Truck

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is seeking sealed bids for ITB-25-006, a procurement for a Heavy Duty Underlift Tow Truck specifically designed to tow and transport disabled buses within Duval County and surrounding areas. The solicitation calls for a specialized tow truck with precise technical specifications, including a Peterbilt 567 truck chassis, Century 7035 recovery boom, and Coach Lower Rider underlift capable of towing buses up to 60 feet long weighing 55,000 pounds. The truck must feature a Cummins X15 engine with 565 horsepower, an Allison World 4500 RDS transmission, and achieve a cruising speed of 65 MPH. Bids are due on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM local time through the JTA's eProcurement Portal, with the complete solicitation package available starting November 5, 2024. The evaluation process will be conducted in two phases: an initial minimum criteria review for responsiveness, followed by a technical evaluation assessing both technical acceptability and pricing. Bidders must provide comprehensive documentation, including technical manuals, lubrication charts, and operator guides, and ensure a local parts and service facility within 15 miles of the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center.

The procurement allows for a firm-fixed price contract with no established Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal, though DBE participation is encouraged. Bidders must submit a bid security of 5% of the total bid price and may be required to furnish performance and payment bonds. Insurance requirements are comprehensive, mandating Commercial General Liability coverage with specific limits and conditions. The JTA may potentially purchase up to six of these vehicles during the contract term, with a standard three-year manufacturer's warranty included. Contractors must comply with federal and state regulations, including E-Verify requirements, and submit multiple certifications and forms. The procurement is subject to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Third-Party Contract Clauses, which include provisions for civil rights, equal employment opportunity, Buy America standards, Davis-Bacon wage requirements, and environmental protections. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the specialized nature of the tow truck and its comprehensive technical specifications suggest a significant investment in specialized municipal transportation infrastructure.