Inmate Transport Buses, and Replacement Parts and Equipment

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) has issued Invitation to Bid (ITB-25-094) for the procurement of inmate transport buses, specifically seeking two standard inmate transport buses and one ADA-compliant inmate transport bus, along with associated replacement parts and equipment. The solicitation covers the purchase of buses and related components, with vendors required to provide original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts meeting rigorous technical specifications for chassis, body, electrical systems, wheelchair accommodations, and security features. Buses will be delivered to multiple regional institutions, including reception centers in Chipley, Lake Butler, Orlando, Ocala, and Doral. The bid evaluation will be based on the lowest total price score, with a comprehensive pricing structure that includes unit costs for buses and a percentage discount for replacement parts. Key deadlines include a bid submission deadline of October 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time, with an anticipated agency decision expected in November 2025. The contract term is structured for up to five years, with potential renewal for an additional five-year period.

Vendors must meet several compliance requirements to be considered for this contract, including E-Verify registration and adherence to specific state guidelines regarding security, certifications against boycotts, and restrictions on forced labor. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly mentioned, vendors will need to provide comprehensive documentation demonstrating their capability to meet the stringent technical and operational requirements. The solicitation does not disclose the precise budget range, but the procurement involves multiple buses and a comprehensive parts and equipment replacement component. Vendors must be prepared to provide detailed pricing that includes unit costs for buses and percentage discounts for replacement parts, with a focus on meeting the Florida Department of Corrections' operational needs across its four regional institutions. The procurement represents a significant opportunity for vendors specializing in correctional transportation infrastructure and equipment.