Rebid* Lab Supplies - DOTD - Addendum No. 2 - Vendor Question & State's Response & Extending Bid Op

The Louisiana Office of State Procurement has issued an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for laboratory equipment for the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), specifically seeking three vibratory screen shakers from Gilson (or equal) and one Despatch laboratory oven for Districts 05 and 07. The solicitation (RFx Number 3000024780) requires detailed technical specifications for each piece of equipment, including a forced convection oven with a 40-204 Celsius operating range, 12 cubic foot capacity, and stainless steel interior, and a vibratory shaker capable of holding seven screen trays with an electronic digital controller. Bidders must submit their proposals electronically through the LaGov vendor portal, with the public bid opening scheduled for May 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST. Vendors must be registered in the system and provide unit pricing for each item, with delivery restricted to Monday-Friday during specific hours and requiring 24-hour advance notification to designated personnel. The state intends to award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specified requirements, with potential contract renewals up to 36 months.

The procurement includes several preference provisions favoring Louisiana businesses, such as giving preference to vendors with a Louisiana workforce or those producing, manufacturing, or processing products in Louisiana. There are also provisions for U.S.-manufactured products, potentially offering pricing advantages for domestically produced items. The state provides payment flexibility, including options for purchases under $5,000 through the LaCarte procurement card or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for larger amounts. Bidders must comply with non-discrimination requirements and specific security protocols, including obtaining temporary identification badges for the Claiborne Building. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the solicitation allows for comprehensive pricing that includes transportation, freight, inside delivery, unpacking, and debris removal. The state reserves the right to award contracts on an individual basis and to reject individual line items as needed. Vendors must carefully follow the detailed online bidding instructions provided in Attachment C, which outlines the precise process for submitting electronic bids through the Louisiana Procurement and Contract Network (LaPac).