Request for Information (RFI): ROAD SALT (ROCK AND SOLAR)

The Maryland Department of General Services, Office of State Procurement is conducting market research via RFI BPM054696 for a statewide road salt (rock and solar) procurement, with responses due January 13, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. This is a preliminary information-gathering phase preceding a formal solicitation for fixed-price, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity supply and delivery contracts.

The state emphasizes participation from small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses, with specific socioeconomic goals to be determined. One or more contract portions may be designated as Small Business Reserved.

The anticipated contract structure organizes awards by six geographic regions: Region A (Allegany, Garrett), Region B (Frederick, Montgomery), Region C (Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Carroll, Harford, Howard), Region D (Caroline, Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne's, Talbot), Region E (Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester), and Region F (Calvert, Charles, Prince George's, St. Mary's, Washington). The contract term spans multiple years and may include renewal options, though the exact duration has not yet been determined.

Respondents must provide current pricing per ton for both rock salt and solar salt by region, indexed to current CPU-I and PPI metrics. They must also submit company contact information, socioeconomic certifications, delivery capabilities by county, and feedback on specifications and subcontracting opportunities for increased minority and veteran participation. Respondents should flag proprietary or confidential information and provide justification for non-disclosure under Maryland's Public Information Act.

A formal pre-bid conference will be scheduled following the official solicitation posting. Submission of an RFI response does not guarantee inclusion in the subsequent procurement, and non-submission does not preclude vendors from bidding. All responses must be submitted via email to Procurement Officer Tierra Ali-Said at Tierra.Ali-Said1@maryland.gov. Current contract details are available in eMMA under tracking numbers 051638, 051641, and 051640.