Sealed Responses Requested for Excavators

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) Statewide Procurement Division (SPD) issued Invitation for Bids (IFB) No. 304T-26-760A4 for the procurement of excavators to serve statewide agency needs, with the Texas Department of Transportation as a primary customer. This sealed bid solicitation was posted on November 4, 2025, with a response deadline initially set for December 16, 2025, later extended to January 8, 2026. The solicitation covers multiple categories of diesel-powered, hydraulically operated, hinged boom crawler excavators in different weight classes ranging from a minimum of 10,000 pounds to 38,000 pounds, and includes detailed technical specifications for each class (Attachments F, G, and H). Vendors are required to comply with stringent equipment specifications, including cab safety, hydraulic systems, boom and arm assembly, and operational controls, with acceptable model examples provided to ensure clarity and compliance. Bidders must submit a comprehensive response package that includes a mandatory price sheet with color-coded fields for pricing by district and unit types, an executed attachment certifying the bid’s validity and certifications (Attachment A), and additional documentation such as filter and belt identification forms (newly added Attachment J), preferences for Texas procurement eligibility, insurance certifications, and supporting literature. The procurement process emphasizes responsiveness to specifications, avoidance of conflicts of interest, and compliance with state legal and ethical standards including cybersecurity training and insurance requirements. The contract uses a best value award methodology that weighs compliance, vendor risk profiles, and price rather than lowest price alone. Deliveries are FOB Destination within specified calendar days after receipt of order, and acceptance occurs upon delivery with the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin. Packaging and marking requirements are detailed to ensure shipment safety and correct identification, including ANSI-compliant safety plaques and stenciled transport markings. Contract administration includes electronic submission and invoicing via Texas SmartBuy, with primary points of contact provided. The contract term extends through April 30, 2026, with potential renewals through April 30, 2029, reflecting continuity of procurement opportunities within Texas state agencies.