Low Floor Transit Buses

The state of Montana, specifically Lewis and Clark County, issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) through the Montana Acquisition & Contracting System (eMACS) for Low Floor Transit Buses on October 14, 2016, with a bid submission deadline of November 21, 2016. The procurement solicitation (MDT-312232-RP) sought multiple low-floor buses for various Montana transit agencies, including one 13-passenger bus for the City of Dillon, one 14-passenger bus for Missoula Urban Transportation District, two 23-passenger buses for the Human Resource Development Council District IX, and one 27-passenger bus for Helena's HATS Transit. The procurement required detailed bus specifications, including precise requirements for chassis make, body make, year of manufacture, passenger capacity, wheelchair positions, engine details, fuel type, air compressor and dryer specifications, and HVAC system information. Bidders were expected to complete comprehensive federal certifications and comply with specific technical and regulatory standards. The buses were to be delivered F.O.B. to their respective Montana destinations with shipping prepaid.

The solicitation included provisions for disadvantaged business enterprises and specific motor vehicle pollution standards, indicating potential set-aside considerations for small or minority-owned businesses. Bidders were required to submit client reference forms and meet stringent qualification criteria, with potential disqualification for non-compliance with solicitation requirements. The contract was ultimately awarded to Harlows Bus Sales, Inc. for $144,325.00, with payment terms of 0% 0, Net 30. While the procurement did not explicitly limit respondents, it implied a preference for vendors with extensive transit vehicle manufacturing experience and ability to meet complex technical specifications. The procurement process emphasized federal and state regulatory compliance, suggesting a comprehensive evaluation of technical capability, past performance, and adherence to transportation safety and accessibility standards. This procurement represented a strategic investment in public transportation infrastructure across multiple Montana jurisdictions.