Group 35 Fixed Route Bus Service (3.5% SBE Goal)

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is soliciting proposals under RFP 126FF002 for the Group 35 Fixed Route Bus Service in the Denver metropolitan area. This fixed-price contract involves the operation of approximately 77 buses providing roughly 368,614 annual revenue hours. The period of performance is set for three years starting May 13, 2027, with the possibility of two one-year option extensions. The scope of work encompasses start-up and transition, personnel and facilities management, vehicle equipment and maintenance, and adherence to specific service standards and reporting compliance. Proposals are evaluated based on the implementation approach and organization (40%), the experience of the firm and key personnel (30%), and cost (30%), with a pass/fail evaluation for the 3.5% Small Business Enterprise (SBE) goal. Award decisions may be based on initial proposals or best and final offers. The contract requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and 49 CFR Part 26 for SBE participation. RTD maintains oversight through a Maintenance Oversight Team that conducts fleet inspections based on specific quality control criteria, requiring contractors to remediate any defects before vehicles return to revenue service.