SP Weather Forecasting

The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA) is conducting a Request for Quote (RFQ) #25-0053R for Professional Meteorological Weather Forecasting services covering a three-year term beginning October 15, 2025. The procurement seeks a Professional Meteorologist to provide comprehensive 24/7 weather forecasting and alert services for the Tollway's 12 maintenance locations. Required deliverables include daily seven-day outlook forecasts with color-coded severity levels, advance severe weather notifications before 11 a.m. local time, and detailed post-event snow and ice reports for specific locations such as O'Hare International Airport, Downers Grove, South Holland, Gurnee, Rockford, and Dixon. The solicitation requires vendors to quote prices for three consecutive years of meteorological services through the BidBuy platform, with quoted prices remaining valid for 180 days and no price increases permitted. The contract will be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder submitting the lowest price, with the requirement that bidders must quote prices for all line items. The proposal is due by September 25, 2025, and the contract is contingent upon fund availability, with the state reserving the right to terminate without penalty if sufficient appropriations are not secured.

The RFQ does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must complete the Standard Illinois Certifications, which include comprehensive requirements addressing legal, ethical, and operational standards such as compliance with the Illinois Department of Human Rights Act, workplace regulations, and anti-discrimination provisions. Potential vendors must meet stringent qualifications, including demonstrating no criminal convictions related to state contracting, verifying no use of forced or child labor, and adhering to drug-free workplace standards. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the solicitation indicates this is a professional services contract for meteorological forecasting. The contract terms include potential termination clauses based on funding availability, and vendors must maintain appropriate insurance coverage and meet all state procurement standards. Non-compliance could result in severe penalties including contract voiding, suspension, debarment, and potential civil or criminal consequences.