Type A, Type C and Type D School Buses, Multifunction School Activity Buses and Optional Equipment

The Florida Department of Education is soliciting bids for a term contract to procure Type A, Type C, and Type D school buses, Multifunction School Activity Buses (MFSAB), and associated optional equipment through Invitation to Bid (ITB) 2026-07. The procurement is open to Florida district school boards, charter schools, the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, and eligible private schools, with an estimated purchase of approximately 1,000 buses. The bid covers comprehensive bus configurations including conventional diesel, electric, and multi-function models with various passenger capacities ranging from 14 to 89 seats. Technical questions are due by September 12, 2025, with final bid responses required by November 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Evaluation criteria include responsive and responsible bidders who submit price quotes within 10 percent of the lowest price for each bus configuration, with awards calculated based on base unit prices and average regional delivery costs.

The procurement includes specific requirements for bidder qualifications, such as performance bonds ($750,000 for Type C and D bidders, $100,000 for Type A bidders) and compliance with state regulations including scrutinized companies lists and drug-free workplace certifications. Minority business enterprise participation guidelines are incorporated, suggesting potential set-aside or preference opportunities for disadvantaged businesses. The contract will be effective for 18 months, beginning January 1, 2026, with extensive pricing options for base models and optional features like wheelchair lifts, air conditioning, engine upgrades, tire options, baggage compartments, warranties, and technology packages including video and GPS systems. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the previous bid cycle indicated procurement of 2,154 Type C buses and 1 Type D bus, suggesting a significant potential contract value. Bidders must submit detailed pricing sheets covering base units, standard options, and additional contract options, with prices to be submitted in even dollar amounts and include all parts, labor, transportation, and incidental services.