Wood sign post

The State of Maine's Division of Purchases is requesting quotes for wooden sign posts, with bids due May 19, 2010. A preference applies to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine in the event of tie bids.

The procurement covers 1,080 wooden sign posts in five size configurations (4"×4"×14', 4"×4"×16', 4"×6"×14', 4"×6"×16', and 6"×6"×14') for delivery to Maine Department of Transportation regional sign shops in Scarborough, Augusta, Dixfield, Bangor, and Caribou, with a consolidation option to Augusta. Posts must be rectangular, straight, and sound timber cut from native Eastern Hemlock or Southern Yellow Pine, graded No. 2 or better, treated to 0.40-inch penetration depth with 0.60 PCF retention using ACQ treatment, kiln or air-dried before treatment, incised on all four sides, and planed on all four sides.

Bidders must submit electronic quotes by 2:00 p.m. local time on May 19, with supporting documents permitted via fax or mail prior to opening. Unit prices are required for each item; all transportation charges are prepaid by the contractor unless otherwise specified. The state is exempt from federal and Maine sales and use taxes and will not pay them. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering the best overall value, with evaluation factors including quality, conformance to specifications, delivery date, and total cost. Delivery timelines must be specified in definite terms and may factor in award determination. Cash discounts of 20 days or more will be considered in determining the low bidder. The Division of Purchases reserves the right to reject any or all quotes, waive formalities or technicalities, and increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%. Questions must be submitted through the AdvantageME Vendor Self Service platform and will be answered up to 48 hours prior to bid closing.