Propane Fuel and Fueling Station Infrastructure

Macatawa Area Express (MAX) Transit is seeking a three-year contract with two one-year extension options for propane fuel supply and fueling station infrastructure at their bus garage located at 11660 Greenway Dr. in Holland, Michigan. The procurement involves installing an above-ground propane fueling tank with a high differential pump and Autogas style dispenser capable of fueling two vehicles simultaneously at 10-12 gallons per minute. MAX plans to replace 17 new propane vehicles over four years, with each vehicle expected to drive 35,000 miles annually at an estimated 7 miles per gallon. The contractor will be responsible for complete infrastructure installation, maintenance, and ensuring compliance with all applicable codes and requirements. The Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued on 8/8/25, with proposals due on 9/8/25 at 1:00 PM ET and a potential contract start date of 10/1/26. An optional onsite visit is scheduled for 8/20/25, though not mandatory for bidders. Key contractor qualifications include maintaining $1,000,000 in primary auto and general liability insurance, $3,000,000 in umbrella limits, and worker's compensation coverage.

While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises were mentioned, the contract requires significant technical capabilities and infrastructure investment. The contractor must provide 24-hour emergency infrastructure support and maintain the capability to perform bobtail filling of buses in case of station breakdown. MAX will provide cement pads and crash protection, but the contractor will retain full ownership of the fueling infrastructure. The project represents a substantial investment in alternative fuel technology for public transit, with potential long-term value through the initial three-year contract and two possible one-year extensions. Though a specific budget range was not explicitly stated, the comprehensive infrastructure requirements and ongoing fuel supply needs suggest a significant financial commitment. The successful vendor will need to demonstrate technical expertise in propane fueling systems, installation capabilities, and robust emergency and maintenance support protocols.