Maritime Investigator Services BOPC 25M900008 Rebid

The California Department of Highway Patrol (CHP), on behalf of the Board of Pilot Commissioners (BOPC), is issuing an Invitation for Bids (IFB) to procure Maritime Investigator Services for the Bays of San Francisco, San Pablo, and Suisun. The procurement seeks qualified firms to provide comprehensive investigative services, including investigation of misconduct, navigational incidents involving BOPC-licensed pilots, and safety standard violations of pilot boarding equipment. Key deliverables and outcomes include investigators responding to BOPC inquiries within fifteen (15) minutes and confirming on-site presence within a four (4) hour time window. Required qualifications include possession of current licenses and certifications meeting California Code of Regulations Title 7, Division 2, Article 3, Section 211.5, as well as a Transportation Worker Identification Credential. Compensation will be structured on an hourly basis for Commission Maritime Investigator and Expert Witness Services, with travel time compensated at 50 percent of the hourly rate. The deadline for submitting questions is January 28, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., with bids due February 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., and bid opening scheduled for February 2, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. Up to four (4) agreements will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidders, with the contract term anticipated to be effective March 1, 2026 through February 28, 2029, with CHP retaining the right to extend the term as necessary.

The procurement is open to both small and large businesses, with preference adjustments available to small business/micro business entities (up to five percent) and non-small business subcontractors (up to five percent). Disadvantaged Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) incentive adjustments apply, though DVBE participation requirements have been waived for this solicitation. Contractors must obtain and maintain professional and commercial general liability insurance with minimum coverage of $500,000 each, with reimbursement capped at $2,500 per contract year for both types of insurance. Maritime transportation and extraordinary incidental expenses are reimbursable up to $700 with prior Executive Director approval. The contract is subject to availability of funds under the applicable Budget Act and may be amended or canceled if full funding does not become available. No incumbent vendors or specific budget ranges are identified in the solicitation materials provided.