Passenger Boarding Ramps for Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

Okaloosa County, Florida is issuing an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for the purchase and delivery of two (2) mobile, adjustable aircraft boarding ramps for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). The procurement seeks equipment that accommodates aircraft ranging from regional jets (CRJ 200) to mainline narrow-body aircraft (Airbus A321/Boeing 737), with required features including open-sided roofing for weather protection, high-traction walking surfaces, integrated LED lighting, extra-wide upper landing platforms (minimum 8 feet), dedicated crew access stairs, fully electric drivetrains with remote control steering, electric height adjustability, heavy-duty solid wheels, and orange flashing beacons for tarmac operations. All equipment must comply with FAA and OSHA safety standards. Vendor submissions must include full technical specifications with drawings, warranty information (particularly for the electric drivetrain and battery life), estimated lead time from contract award to delivery, and detailed pricing that encompasses all equipment, labor, materials, freight, and taxes in a single itemized amount. Questions must be submitted by February 11, 2026 at 3:00 PM CST, with bids due electronically through OpenGov by February 25, 2026 at 3:00 PM CST. The County will award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, and bidders must remain bound by their bids for ninety (90) days after the bid opening date.

This federally grant-funded solicitation requires extensive compliance with federal regulations, including Buy American provisions for manufactured products, Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements if applicable, E-Verify employment verification, and various nondiscrimination and civil rights statutes. Respondents must provide numerous certifications and compliance documents, including conflict of interest disclosures, Certificate of Good Standing for Florida, SAM.gov registration information, drug-free workplace certification, anti-human trafficking affidavits, and compliance with the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment. The vendor must obtain and maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including $5 million Airport Liability insurance and workers' compensation, and provide training for airport ground handling staff upon delivery. No specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are mentioned in the solicitation materials. The contract award value is not explicitly stated in the provided documentation; however, the scope of work involves the complete purchase and delivery of two sophisticated mobile boarding ramps with integrated systems and comprehensive training, which typically represents a significant capital investment.