New School Buses

The Rockwood School District in Missouri is seeking bids for the procurement of approximately fifteen (15) new 2027 Class C school buses, with options for 77 and 83-passenger configurations. The Request for Bid (RFB) #25-14103 was issued on December 1, 2025, with vendor questions due by December 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM CST and sealed bids due on December 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST through the Rockwood School District Bonfire portal. Bidders must submit comprehensive proposals that include base purchase prices, delivery dates, camera wiring and installation costs, and total pricing with air conditioning. The District requires vendors to demonstrate robust service capabilities, including traveling parts truck services, warranty repair reimbursement, Bluetooth powertrain hardware and software, access to certified ASE Master Technicians for troubleshooting, and free parts shipping. Evaluation criteria will focus on meeting extensive bus specifications, including compliance with Missouri school bus standards, engine, transmission, brake systems, lighting, and safety requirements. A public bid opening will occur on December 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM in Eureka, Missouri, with Board of Education approval anticipated by January 15, 2025.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must complete an Anti-Discrimination Against Israel Affidavit, which is mandatory for contracts exceeding $100,000 with companies employing ten or more individuals. The successful vendor must provide a minimum 5-year/unlimited mile bumper-to-bumper warranty with parts and labor coverage and maintain a warranty service location within 50 miles of Eureka, Missouri. Vendors must carry comprehensive general liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and be prepared for potential split awards among multiple bidders. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement involves replacing multiple buses in the district's existing fleet, with anticipated delivery between July 1-15, 2026. The District is exempt from federal excise tax, transportation tax, and state retail sales tax, and will offer payment terms of Net 45 days from invoice date. Prospective bidders must register with the Bonfire portal and communicate exclusively through its vendor discussion features.