Multi-Step Invitation for Bids (MS-IFB) for Materials Laboratory Testing Services for State Highway Administration (SHA)

Maryland State Highway Administration is seeking bids for materials laboratory testing services under a multi-step IFB, with bids due October 13, 2026 and a pre-bid conference on September 17, 2026 via Microsoft Teams. AASHTO R-18 and CCRL accreditation (ASTM C1077 and C1222) is a mandatory capability filter; bidders must hold these certifications for all specified tests and participate in reference sample and correlation programs.

The scope covers testing services for concrete, asphalt, soils, aggregates, and chemicals at laboratories within Maryland, with primary performance at 7450 Traffic Drive, Building #4, Hanover, Maryland. This is an indefinite quantity contract with firm fixed unit prices over a five-year term. Minimum staffing requirements include a Maryland-registered Professional Engineer Project Manager with ten years' experience, a Laboratory Manager with five years' experience present in the contractor's lab a minimum of two days per week, and Senior Materials Technicians with three years' experience and current Mid-Atlantic Region Technician Certifications. The contractor must maintain all necessary testing equipment.

The contract employs a two-step competitive sealed bidding process: technical qualifications are evaluated first; then public price opening occurs for acceptable bidders. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability of $1 million per occurrence / $3 million aggregate, Errors and Omissions / Professional Liability of $1 million per claim / $3 million aggregate, and Workers' Compensation of $1 million per occurrence. The contract includes federal funding from Transportation Trust Fund, Transportation Alternatives Program, and Federal Highway Administration grants, requiring compliance with domestic materials procurement preferences for iron / steel products, manufactured products, and construction materials. No MBE, VSBE, or DBE subcontracting goals apply. Questions are due September 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EST. Monthly invoicing is based on completed tests at firm fixed unit prices; the contractor must notify SHA when spending reaches 80% of the contract ceiling.