City of Aurora Ride Solution (C.A.R.S) Transportation Program

The City of Aurora is seeking qualified transportation providers to participate in the City of Aurora Ride Solution (C.A.R.S.) Program, a initiative designed to address critical mobility gaps for seniors and individuals with disabilities by offering safe, flexible, and person-centered transportation services. The program aims to ensure access to essential services such as medical appointments, nutrition programs, employment, and social engagement through both curb-to-curb and door-to-door transit options, with vehicles equipped for accessibility needs including ramps and lifts. The contract period begins September 1, 2026, and extends through December 31, 2027, with the potential for four one-year optional extensions, contingent upon mutual agreement. Providers must deliver demand-responsive services that include real-time dispatch capabilities, passenger confirmation, and adherence to federal and state safety standards, including OSHA requirements, Illinois safety codes, and 49 CFR Parts 40 and 655 for drug and alcohol testing. All vehicles must be properly labeled and maintained to compliance standards, and drivers must be trained in professional conduct and disability services. Proposals will be evaluated through a three-phase weighted process prioritizing qualifications and experience (30%), organization and staffing (25%), project approach (25%), and pricing (20%) in Phase 1, followed by deeper assessment of methodology, operational capacity, and past performance in Phase 2, culminating in a cost review in Phase 3. The award will be made based on a best-value trade-off approach, not lowest-price technically acceptable, meaning price is one of multiple factors, and the most responsible offeror demonstrating superior technical merit and alignment with the City’s goals will be selected. Key requirements include submission of resumes for designated key personnel, a compliance-based organizational structure, a robust complaint resolution system requiring response within five business days, and strict recordkeeping of trip data, driver logs, revenue, and testing records. Subcontracting is permitted only with prior written approval, and the prime contractor remains fully liable for all work. The City prohibits joint employer relationships and reserves the right to remove personnel or inspect equipment at any time. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the OpenGov portal by June 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Central Time, not exceeding 30 single-sided pages excluding covers and dividers. All submissions must include required certifications of eligibility, tax compliance, insurance, and absence of debarment, though no socioeconomic status or UEI/CAGE code declarations are