MDOT Fleet Vehicle Upfitting Services

The Santa Monica Department of Transportation is seeking bids for fleet vehicle upfitting services, targeting non-revenue vehicles including pool vehicles and service trucks. The procurement solicits a vendor capable of comprehensive vehicle modification, requiring specialized installation of equipment such as amber/emergency lighting systems, toolboxes, push bumpers, aluminum liftgates, and custom fabrication. Vendors must demonstrate a minimum of 5 years' experience upfitting domestic and foreign vehicles, with capabilities to install on-board computers, antennas, routers, radio systems, and perform light paint work. The project requires post-installation vehicle cleaning and detailing services, with the contractor located within 40 miles of the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus yard. The Request for Proposals was posted on September 23, 2025, with question submissions due by September 25, 2025, and final proposal responses required by October 6, 2025, at 3:00 pm. Evaluation criteria will include price, service quality, vendor capacity, financial resources, and past performance. This federally funded project mandates compliance with all applicable federal clauses and will require comprehensive documentation and pre-construction approvals.

The contract opportunity does not explicitly specify set-aside designations, but the documentation indicates potential requirements for disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) participation and compliance with federal hiring preferences. Contractors must meet stringent insurance requirements, including Commercial General Liability coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence, Automobile Liability coverage of $1,000,000 per accident, and Workers' Compensation insurance as mandated by California state law. The procurement requires contractors to provide a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty on service utility beds and equipment, starting when vehicles are placed into service. While specific award value is not detailed, the Vehicle Upfit Price Sheet indicates hourly rates for various modification categories and suggests an annual, as-needed service model. Contractors must comply with the City of Santa Monica's Living Wage Ordinance, which requires a minimum wage of $22.50 per hour for covered employees, and are subject to the Oaks Initiative, mandating disclosure of key personnel and ownership information.