Multiple Provider, On-call, As Needed Railroad Flagging Services throughout the State of California

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is seeking multiple providers for an on-call, as-needed Railroad Flagging Services contract throughout the state. The primary objective is to provide labor, tools, equipment, materials, travel, and work signs necessary to support bridge inspections performed by Caltrans personnel within Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) right of way. Bidders must be pre-approved UPRR vendors and will be responsible for providing flagging services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, excluding state holidays. The contract is estimated to run from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2027, with Caltrans planning to award up to two contracts to the lowest responsible bidders. The bid submission deadline is September 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with bid opening at 2:30 p.m., and a proposed award date of September 30, 2025. Bidders must comply with both federal and state prevailing wage requirements, with contractors required to pay the higher of the two rates. Key deliverables include providing professional railroad flagging services to ensure safety during bridge inspections across multiple California counties.

The procurement includes a small business preference, with Caltrans committed to achieving a 25% Small Business participation goal. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation is encouraged, and bidders must submit several certifications, including DBE information, California Civil Rights Laws Certification, and Darfur Contracting Act Certification. The contract is subject to federal funding and includes specific provisions for non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity. Contractors must also comply with organic waste recycling requirements and obtain necessary motor carrier permits. While the exact total contract amount is to be determined, payment will be based on an hourly rate for flagging services. The contract includes comprehensive insurance requirements and mandates compliance with various federal and state regulations. Bidders will need to demonstrate their capability to meet these complex requirements, including wage determinations that reflect current minimum wage standards under Executive Orders 14026 and 13658, with minimum wage rates set at $17.75 per hour for recent contracts.