ISD 66 passenger and 72 passenger buses

The Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for the procurement of two school buses for the Illinois School for the Deaf (ISD), specifically requesting one 66-passenger bus with a wheelchair lift and one 72-passenger bus. The buses must meet technical specifications similar to Thomas Safe-T-Liner or Blue Bird RE conventional buses and include features such as diesel engines certified for 5% biodiesel fuel, Allison automatic transmissions, air suspension, camera systems, wheelchair accessibility modifications, and emergency safety equipment. Vendors must submit electronic bids exclusively through the BidBuy platform by November 20, 2025, with bids remaining firm for 90 days following opening. Written questions are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 13, 2025, and vendors must monitor BidBuy for agency responses and potential amendments. The buses must be delivered to the CMS garage in Springfield, Illinois, by June 30, 2026, with the contract term commencing upon the last dated signature of both parties and extending through that date.

The procurement includes provisions for disadvantaged business participation and requires vendors to complete comprehensive disclosure documentation, including the IPG Active Registered Vendor Disclosure form. Vendors must possess an active and unexpired State of Illinois Vendor Registration Number and certify compliance with various statutory requirements, including forced labor prohibitions and anti-discrimination provisions. The State will evaluate bids based on responsibility and responsiveness, awarding to the lowest-priced responsive and responsible bidder. Vendors must maintain general commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and workers' compensation insurance. The contract includes a $15 administrative fee for awards valued at $1,000 or more, and vendors hiring qualified veterans or certain ex-offenders may be eligible for Illinois employment tax credits. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement allows for potential federal funding, with the maximum contract amount to be determined by the State prior to execution.