Install New Roadway Information Systems (RWIS) Butte District

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is soliciting bids for the Install New Roadway Information Systems (RWIS) Butte District project, a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade involving the installation of seven Roadway Weather Information Systems across multiple locations in Montana. The project encompasses sites near Clancy, Boulder, Bozeman, Wind, Woods Corner, Big Sky, Bridger Canyon, and Yankee Jim Canyon, with each location requiring detailed technical infrastructure modifications. Specific deliverables include installing RWIS towers, road surface sensors, temperature probes, wind sensors, precipitation sensors, cameras, associated conduits, pull boxes, electrical service assemblies, and one chain link fence enclosure. The contract requires complete installation and commissioning of all systems by October 15, 2024, with technical requirements for equipment integration into MDT's existing communication systems. Bidders must use the eMACS bidding system, with bids due by December 20, 2023, at 2:00 PM MST for the bid number MDT-315436-RP. Vaisala, Inc. is identified as a primary equipment supplier, and the project emphasizes compliance with Build America, Buy America (BABA) regulations, mandating that all construction materials be manufactured in the United States.

The procurement appears open to qualified contractors, with prerequisite requirements including registration with the Department of Labor and Industry and adherence to federal aid and contract provisions. Contractors must comply with non-discrimination policies and provide security for bids totaling $150,000 or greater. The contract includes specific wage requirements based on Davis-Bacon wage rates, with hourly wages ranging from $27.71 to $92.66 depending on job classification. Cellular modems for site connectivity will be provided by MDT Communications, and traffic control costs are incorporated into the RWIS station pricing. The payment structure is set at 0% with Net 30 conditions, and while specific total project budget is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the seven-station installation suggests a significant infrastructure investment. Contractors will be required to coordinate closely with MDT's Communications Bureau and follow strict installation, commissioning, and equipment protection guidelines throughout the project implementation.