Purchase of 30 Foot, 35 Foot, and 40 Foot Transit Buses

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) F26-5001-33

Purchase of 30-Foot, 35-Foot and 40-Foot Transit Buses

Date: May 28, 2026

Contact: Andrew Campbell, Buyer

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority

1350 E. 17th Street

Kansas City, MO 64108

Telephone: 816.346.0268

Email: acampbell@kcata.org

Request for Proposals (RFP) F26-5001-33

Purchase of 30-Foot, 35-Foot and 40-Foot Transit Buses

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) hereby requests proposals for the supply of 30-foot, 35-foot and 40-foot diesel, CNG, hybrid and electric, twelve-year, heavy duty, low-floor transit buses. Only certified Transit Vehicle Manufacturers (TVMs) that meet all requirements mandated by the U. S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) will be considered for award. The Contractor(s) shall comply with all applicable Federal, state and local regulations. The buses shall meet all applicable FMVSS and shall accommodate all applicable FMCSR regulations in effect at the date of manufacture.

The minimum purchase under this contract is five (5) 30-foot, 35-foot or 40-foot diesel, CNG, and electric, twelve-year, heavy- duty, low-floor transit buses.

The first year of the contract consists of an initial purchase not to exceed thirty (30) buses including 30-foot and 40-foot low-floor diesel CNG. Expected delivery for these buses should be no later than August 31, 2028.

The contract includes options to purchase an additional one hundred and sixty-one (161) buses over a five-year period, with a fleet mix that depends on the annual requirements will be a five-year contract containing options for purchasing a combination of vehicles depending on yearly requirements.

This procurement is subject to the availability of funds provided through financial assistance grants from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), State of Missouri , and local sources.

Other participating agencies for this joint procurement include:

Topeka Metro Johnson County Transit

200 NW Crane 1701 W old 56 Hwy

Topeka, KS 66603 Olathe, KS 66061

Contact: Alan Parrish, Director of Maintenance & Facilities Contact: Justus Welker, Interim Director

Phone: 1.785.730.8690 Phone: 1.913.715.8354

CFalldine@topekametro.org Justus.Welker@jocogov.org

St. Joseph Transit Lawrence Transit

702 S 5th St. 2315 Bob Billings Pkwy

St. Joseph, MO 64501 Lawrence, Kansas 66045

Contact: Scott Butcher, Public Works Facility Manager Contact: Felice Lavergne, Director of Transit

Phone: 1.816.271-4653 Phone: 1.785.832.3462

transit_SButcher@stjosephmo.org flavergne@lawrenceks.gov

Wichita Transit Joplin Transit

777 E Waterman 123 S. Main Street

Wichita, KS 67202 Joplin, MO 64801

Contact: Roosevelt DeShazer Contact: Gina Thompson

Phone: 1.316.352.4811 Phone: 1.417.625.4793

RDeShazer@wichita.gov GThompson@joplinmo.org

It is possible that various minor modifications may be needed to accommodate the needs of the participating agencies that may participate in this process.

Project Diversity Goal. This project is funded in part with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grants. There is a 0% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal established for this project. DBE firms are encouraged to submit proposals as prime contractors, joint ventures, or subcontractors. See Section 2.13 for more information on KCATA’s policy regarding KCATA’s Diversity Programs.

Pre-Proposal Questions. All correspondence, communication and contact in regard to any aspect of this solicitation or offers shall be only with the individual mention below, Unless otherwise instructed by the Contracting Officer, Proposers and their representatives shall not make any contact with or communicate with any member of the Agency, or its employees and consultants, other than the designated Contracting Officer, in regard to any aspect of this solicitation or offers. Questions (technical, contractual, or administrative) must be directed in writing via email only to Andrew Campbell at acampbell@kcata.org and Denise Adams at denisb@kcata.org with the RFP number in the Subject line. Questions and requests for clarifications will be received until 2:00 p.m. Central Time on June 17, 2026. If required, KCATA’s response to these submissions will be in the form of an Addendum.

Proposal Bond. A proposal bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the full expected price for Thirty (30) buses based on the first year of the contract, reflected in U.S. dollars must be enclosed in Volume III.

Performance Bond. A performance bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the full expected cost of the first year of the contract may be required within ten (10) days from Notice of Intent to Award and prior to final award of a contract.

Proposal Submissions. Proposals must be received with all required submittals (See Section 3) as stated in the RFP no later than 2:00 p.m. Central on July 20, 2026. See Section 3.2 for submittal instructions.

Proposals received after the time specified shall not be considered for award. Proposals received via facsimile (fax), or electronic mail (e-mail) shall not be considered. Proposals not meeting specified delivery and method of submittal will not be opened nor considered responsive.

Submission of the proposal shall constitute a firm offer to the KCATA for one hundred twenty (120) days from the date of closing. This RFP does not commit to the KCATA to award a contract, to pay any cost incurred in 1) preparation of a proposal; or 2) to procure or contract for services/materials. Proposer should read and understand the requirements of this proposal covered in the sections listed under the Table of Contents of this document.

The KCATA reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals received, to interview or negotiate with any qualified individual or firm, to modify this request, or cancel in part or in its entirety the RFP if it is in the best interest of the KCATA.

Evaluation/Award. Following an initial review and screening of all timely and responsive proposals, highly qualified Proposers may be invited to interviews as necessary at their own expense. Those selected Proposers will be informed as to exact date and time if invited for interviews and discussion. Proposers may also be required to submit written responses to questions regarding their proposals. All contractual agreements are subject to final approval by the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Board of Commissioners.

Restricted Communications. No person or entity submitting a proposal in response to this Request for Proposals nor any officer, employee, agent, representative, relative or consultant representing such a person (or entity) may contact through any means, or engage in any discussion concerning the award of this contract with any member of KCATA’s Board of Commissioners or any employee of KCATA (excluding Procurement staff) during the period beginning on the date of proposal issue and ending on the date of the selection of a Contractor. Any such contact would be ground for disqualification of the Proposer.

Kristen Emmendorfer

Director of Procurement

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

SECTION 1. PROPOSAL CALENDAR 12

SECTION 2. PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS 13

2.1 General Information 13

2.2 Proposal Submissions 13

2.3 Assignability 14

2.4 Reservations 14

2.5 Proposer’s Responsibilities 14

2.6 Authorization to Propose 15

2.7 Withdrawal & Incomplete Proposals 15

2.8 Modification of Proposals 15

2.9 Approved Equals 15

2.10 Unbalanced Proposals 15

2.11 Protest 15

2.12 Disclosure of Proprietary Information 16

2.13 Diverse Business Enterprise Requirements 16

2.14 Delivery Documents 17

SECTION 3. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION, EVALUATION AND AWARD 18

3.1 Introduction 18

3.2 Proposal Format 18

3.3 Volume 1 – Price Proposal 18

3.4 Volume 2 – Technical Proposal 19

3.5 Volume 3 - Contractual 21

3.6 Buy America Certification 24

3.7 Proposal Evaluation, Negotiation and Selection 25

3.8 Confidentiality of Proposals 25

3.9 Review of Proposals for Responsiveness and Proposers for Responsibility 26

3.10 Proposal Evaluation Criteria 26

3.11 Presentations/Interviews/Written Responses 27

3.12 Contractor Selection 27

3.13 Contract Award 27

SECTION 4. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 28

TS 1 Scope 28

TS 2 Definitions 28

TS 3 Referenced Publications 33

TS 4 Legal Requirements 33

TS 5 Overall Requirements 33

5.1 Weight 33

5.2 Capacity 33

5.3 Service Life 33

5.4 Maintenance and Inspection 33

5.5 Interchangeability 34 5.6 Training 34

5.7 Operating Environment 35

5.8 Noise 35

5.9 Fire Safety 35

5.10 Fire Suppression 35

5.11 Respect for the Environment 35

TS 6 Physical Size 36

6.1 Bus Length 36

6.2 Bus Width 36

6.3 Bus Height 36

6.4 Step Height 37

6.5 Underbody Clearance 37

6.6 Ramp Clearances 37

6.7 Ground Clearance 37

6.8 Floor Height 38

6.9 Interior Headroom 38

TS 7 Power Requirements 38

7.1 Top Speed 38

7.2 Gradability 39

7.3 Acceleration 39

7.4 Operating Range 39

TS 8 Fuel Economy 40

TS 9 Engine(Diesel) 40

9.1 Engine(CNG) 40

9.2 Electric Propulsion System 41

9.3 Propulsion System(Hybrid or Battery Electric) 41

TS 10 Cooling Systems 44

10.1 Engine Cooling 44

10.2 Charge Air Cooling 45

10.3 Transmission Cooling 45

TS 11 Transmission (Conventional Powertrain) 45

TS 12 Retarder 46

12.1 Additional Hybrid Acceleration Requirements(Hybrid or Electric) 46

TS 13 Engine Brake (Not Permitted) 46
TS 14 Mounting 46

14.1 Service 46

TS 15 Hydraulic Systems 47

15.1 Fluid Lines 47

15.2 Fittings and Clamps 47

15.3 Charge Air Piping 47

TS 16 Radiator 48

TS 17 Oil and Hydraulic Lines 48

TS 18 Fuel 48

18.1 Fuel Lines 48

18.2 Fuel Tanks 49

TS 19 Emissions and Exhaust 51

19.1 Exhaust Emissions 51

19.2 Exhaust System 51

19.3 Exhaust Aftertreatment 52

19.4 Particulate Aftertreatment 52

TS 20 General 52

20.1 Design 52

TS 21 Altoona Testing 52

21.1 Structural Validation 52

TS 22 Distortion 52

TS 23 Resonance and Vibration 52

23.1 Engine Compartment Bulkheads 53

23.2 Crashworthiness 53

TS 24 Corrosion 53

TS 25 Towing 53

TS 26 Jacking 54

TS 27 Hoisting 54

TS 28 Floor 54

28.1 Design 54

28.2 Strength 55

28.3 Construction 55

TS 29 Platforms 55

29.1 Driver’s Area 55

29.2 Driver’s Platform 56

29.3 Farebox Replacement 56

29.4 Rear Step Area to Rear Area 57

TS 30 Wheel Housing 57

30.1 Design and Construction 57

30.2 Design and Contraction (Transit Coach) 57

TS 31 Suspension 57

31.1 General Requirements 57

31.2 Alignment 57

31.3 Spring and Shock Absorbers 58

TS 32 Wheels and Tires 58

32.1 Wheels 58

32.2 Tires 59

TS 33 Steering 59

33.1 Steering Axle 59

33.2 Steering Wheel 59

TS 34 Drive Axle 60

34.1 Non-Drive Axle 61

TS 35 Turning Radius 61

TS 36 Brakes 61

36.1 Service Brake 61

36.2 Actuation 62 36.3 Friction Material 62

36.4 Disc Brakes on All Axles 62

36.5 Parking/Emergency Brake 62

TS 37 Interlocks 62

37.1 Passenger Door Interlocks 62

TS 38 Pneumatic System 63

38.1 General 63

38.2 Air Compressor 63

38.3 Air Lines and Fittings 63

38.4 Air Reservoirs 64

38.5 Air System Dryer 64

TS 39 Electrical, Electronic and data Communications Overview 64

39.1 Modular Design 65

TS 40 Environmental and Mounting Requirements 65

40.1 Hardware Mounting 65

TS 41 General Electrical Requirements 66

41.1 Batteries 66

41.2 Grounds 68

41.3 Low Voltage/Low Current Wiring and Terminals 68 41.4 Electrical Components 69

41.5 Electrical Compartments 69

TS 42 General Electronic Requirements 69

42.1 Wiring and Terminals 70

TS 43 Multiplexing 71

43.1 General 71

43.2 System Configuration 71

TS 44 Data Communications 71

44.1 General 71

44.2 Drivetrain Level 72

44.3 Multiplex level 72

44.4 Electronic Noise Control 73

TS 45 Driver’s Area Controls 73

45.1 General 73

45.2 Glare 73

45.3 Visors/Sunshades 73

45.4 Driver’s Controls 74

45.5 Normal Bus Operation Instrumentation and Controls 74

45.6 Driver Foot Controls 79

45.7 Brake and Accelerator Pedals 79

45.8 Driver Foot Switches 79

TS 46 Driver’s Amenities 80

46.1 Coat Hanger 80

46.2 Drink holder 80

46.3 Storage Box 80

TS 47 Windshield Wipers and Washers 80

47.1 Windshield Wipers 80

47.2 Windshield Washers 80

TS 48 Driver’s Seat 81

48.1 Dimensions 81

48.2 Seat Belts 82

48.3 Adjustable Armrest 83

48.4 Seat Control Locations 83

48.5 Seat Structure and Material Cushions 83

48.6 Pedestal 83

48.7 Seat Options 83

48.8 Mirrors 84

TS 49 General 85

TS 50 Windshield 85

50.1 Glazing 85

TS 51 Driver’s Side Window 85

TS 52 Side Windows 86

52.1 Configuration 86

52.2 Emergency Exit (Egress) Configuration 86

52.3 Configuration 86

52.4 Materials 86

52.5 Rear Window 87

TS 53 Capacity and Performance 87

TS 54 Controls and Temperature Uniformity 88

54.1 Auxiliary Heater 88

TS 55 Air Flow 89

55.1 Passenger Area 89

55.2 Driver’s Area 89

55.3 Controls for the Climate Control System (CCS) 89

55.4 Driver’s Compartment Requirements 89

55.5 Driver’s Cooling 90

TS 56 Air Filtration 90

TS 57 Roof Ventilators 90

TS 58 Maintainability 91

TS 59 Entrance/Exit Area Heating 91

TS 60 Floor-Level Heating 91

60.1 Transit Coach 91

TS 61 Design 91

61.1 Materials 91

61.2 Roof-Mounted Equipment(Transit Coach) 92

TS 62 Pedestrian Safety 92

TS 63 Repair and Replacement 92

63.1 Side Body Panels (Transit Coach) 92

TS 64 Rain Gutters 92

TS 65 License Plate Provisions 92

65.1 Rub Rails 92

TS 66 Fender Skirts 92

TS 67 Wheel Covers (Transit Coach) 92

67.1 Splash Aprons 93

TS 68 Service Compartments and Access Doors 93

68.1 Access Doors (Transit Coach) 93

68.2 Access Door Latch/Locks 93

TS 69 Bike Rack 93

TS 70 Bumpers 93

70.1 Location 93

70.2 Front Bumper 93

70.3 Rear Bumper 94

70.4 Bumper Material 94

TS 71 Finish and Color 94

71.1 Appearance 94

TS 72 Decals, Numbering and Signing 95

72.1 Passenger Information 95

TS 73 Exterior Lighting 95

73.1 Backup Light/Alarm 95

73.2 Doorway Lighting 95

73.3 Turn Signals 95

73.4 Headlights 96

73.5 Brake Lights 96

73.6 Service Area Lighting (Interior and Exterior) 96

TS 74 General Requirements 96

TS 75 Interior Panels 97

75.1 Driver Area Barrier 97

75.2 Modesty Panels 97

75.3 Front end 98

75.4 Rear Bulkhead 98

75.5 Headlining 98

75.6 Fastening 98

75.7 Insulation 98

75.8 Floor Covering 99

75.9 Interior Lighting 99

75.10 Passenger 99

75.11 Driver’s Area 100

75.12 Seating Areas (Transit Coach) 100

75.14 Vestibules/Doors (Transit Coach) 100

75.14 Step Lighting 100

75.15 Ramp Lighting (Transit Coach) 100

75.19 Farebox Lighting 100

TS 76 Fare Collection 100

TS 77 Interior Access Panels and Doors 101

77.1 Floor Panels 101

TS 78 Passenger Seating 101

78.1 Arrangements and Seat Style (Transit Coach) 101

78.2 Rearward Facing Seats (Transit Coach) 101

78.3 Padded Inserts/Cushioned Seats (Transit Coach) 102

78.4 Seat back fitness 102

78.5 Drain Hole in Seats 102

78.6 Hip-to-Knee Room 102

78.7 Foot Room 102

78.8 Aisles (Transit Coach) 102

78.9 Dimensions (Transit Coach) 103

78.10 Structure and Design (Transit Coach) 103

78.11 Construction and Materials (Transit Coach) 104

TS 79 Passenger Assist 105

79.1 Assists (Transit Coach) 105

79.2 Front Doorway 105

79.3 Vestibule (Transit Coach) 105

79.4 Rear Doorway(s) (Transit Coach) 106

79.5 Overhead (Transit Coach) 106

79.6 Longitudinal Seat Assists (Transit Coach) 106

79.7 Wheel Housing Barriers Assists (Transit Coach) 106

TS 80 Passenger Doors 106

80.1 Transit Coach 106

80.2 Materials and Construction 106

80.3 Dimensions 107

80.4 Door Glazing 107

80.5 Door Projection (Transit Coach) 108

80.6 Door Height Above Pavement 108

80.7 Closing Force 108

80.8 Actuators 108

80.9 Emergency Operation 109

80.10 Door Control 109

80.11 Door Controller 109

80.12 Door Open/Close 110

TS 81 Accessibility Provisions 110

81.1 Loading Systems 110

81.2 Lift 110

81.3 Loading System for 30, 35 to 40ft Low-Floor Bus 110

81.4 Wheelchair Accommodations 110

81.5 Interior Circulation 110

TS 82 Wheelchair lifts 110

82.1 Lift 111

82.2 Lift Door 111

82.3 Lift Width 111

82.4 Lighting Requirements 111

82.5 Securement System 111

82.6 Roof Ventilation/Escape Hatches 111

TS 83 Destination Signs 111

TS 84 Passenger Information and Advertising (Transit Coach) 112

84.1 Interior Displays 112

84.2 Exterior Displays 112

TS 85 Passenger Stop Request/Exit Signal 112

85.1 Transit Coach 112

85.2 Signal Chime 113

TS 86 Communications 113

86.1 Camera Surveillance System 113

86.2 Public Address System 113

86.3 Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) 114

86.4 Radio handset and Control System 114

TS 87 Event Data Recorders (EDR) 114

SECTION 5. INSPECTION, TESTSAND REPAIRS 115

5.1 Repair Performance 115

5.2 Deliveries 116

5.3 Options and Option Pricing 119

5.4 Assignability of Options 119

5.5 Payment 119

5.6 Liquidated Damages for Late Delivery of the Bus 120

5.7 Service and Parts 120

5.8 Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 121

SECTION 6. WARRANTY REQUIREMENTS 122

6.1 Basic Provisions 122

6.2 Repair Performance 125

SECTION 7. QUALITY ASSURANCE 128

7.1 Contractor’s In-Plant Quality Assurance Requirements 128

7.2 Inspection 130

7.3 Acceptance Test 131

SECTION 8. NEW BUS MANUFACTURING INSPECTION GUIDELINES 132

8.1 Pre-Production Meeting – Responsibilities 132

8.2 Build Schedule 133

8.3 Plant Tour (If Meeting at OEM’s Location) 133

8.4 Prototype/Pilot Vehicle Production 133

8.5 Visual and Measured Inspections 133

8.6 Total Bus Operation 133

8.7 Post-Delivery Test 134

8.8 Prototype/Pilot Vehicle Acceptance 134

8.9 Buy America Audit 135

8.10 Resident Inspection Process for Serial Production 135

8.11 Audits, Inspection and Tests. 136

8.12 Communications 138

8.13 Documentation 138

8.14 Vehicle Release for Delivery 139

8.15 Post-Delivery and Final Acceptance 139

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment A Proposal Submittal Checklist 140

Attachment B Sample Agreement/Terms and Conditions 141

Attachment C Price Proposal 166

Attachment D Affidavit of Civil Rights Compliance 167

Attachment E-1 Guidelines for Workforce Analysis/EEO-1 Report 170

Attachment E-2 KCATA Workforce Analysis/EEO-1 Report 171

Attachment F Non-Collusion Affidavit 172

Attachment G Affidavit of Primary Participant’s Compliance Regarding Employee Eligibility Verification 173

Attachment H Certification of Primary Participants Regarding Restrictions on Debarment 174

Attachment I Certification of Primary Participants Regarding Restrictions on Lobbying 175

Attachment J Certification of Primary Participants Regarding Federal Tax Liability and Convictions 176

Attachment K Buy America Certification 177

Attachment L Request for Change or Approved Equal 178

Attachment M Form for Proposal Deviation 179

Attachment N Contractors Service and Parts Support Data 180

Attachment O Pre-Award Audit and Post-Delivery Audit 181

Attachment P CER 9.3 Certification of Compliance with Standards, Certifications and Regulations 182

NO PROPOSAL REPLY FORM

Request for Proposals (RFP) F26-5001-33

Purchase of 30-Foot, 35-Foot and 40-Foot Transit Buses

To assist KCATA in obtaining good competition on its Requests for Proposals, we ask that if you received an invitation but do not wish to propose, please state the reason(s) below and return this form to Andrew Campbell, Buyer, via email at acampbell@kcata.org. Include the Project Name in the subject line. This form may also be mailed to Procurement Department, 1350 East 17th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108.

This information will not preclude receipt of future invitations unless you request removal from the Proposer’s List by so indicating below.

Unfortunately, we must offer a “No Proposal” at this time because:

____ 1. We do not wish to participate in the proposal process.

____ 2. We do not wish to propose under the terms and conditions of the Request for Proposal document. Our objections are:

____ 3. We do not feel we can be competitive.

____ 4. We do not provide the services on which Proposals are requested.

____ 5. Other: _______________________________________________________________________

____ We wish to remain on the Proposer’s list for these services.

____ We wish to be removed from the Proposer’s list for these services.

FIRM NAME SIGNATURE

SECTION 1

PROPOSAL CALENDAR

RFP Advertised and Issued May 28, 2026

Questions, Comments and Requests for Clarifications Due to KCATA June 17, 2026

2:00 p.m. Central Time

KCATA’s Response to Questions, Comments and Requests for Clarification June 30, 2026

RFP Closing July 20, 2026

2:00 p.m. Central Time

Interviews (Tentative and if required) August 3 - August 7, 2026

Contract Award/Notice to Proceed (Anticipated) September 2026

SECTION 2

PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 General Information

A. The terms “solicitation” and “Request for Proposal” and “RFP” are used interchangeably, and the terms “offer”, and “proposal” are used interchangeably. The terms “Proposer,” “Contractor” and “Offeror” are also used interchangeably.

B. In cases where communication is required between Proposers and the KCATA, such as requests for information, instruction, and clarification of specifications, such communication shall be forwarded in writing directly to Andrew Campbell at acampbell@kcata.org and Denise Adams at dadams@kcata.org by the indicated deadline. The subject line of electronic communications must reference the RFP number and title.

C. Submitting a proposal constitutes a firm offer to KCATA for one hundred twenty (120) days from the closing date.

D. KCATA is not responsible for any cost or expense that may be incurred by the Proposer before the execution of a contract, including costs associated with preparing a proposal or interviews.

E. The Proposer is also required to examine the scope of work carefully and to be informed thoroughly regarding all conditions and requirements that may in any manner affect the work to be performed under the contract. No allowances will be made because of lack of knowledge of these specifications, conditions or requirements.

F. The bus shall be fully compliant with the applicable requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and any revisions published by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board or The Federal Transit Administration for fixed route operations. Where these specifications exceed the requirements of ADA, the specification requirement shall apply.

2.2 Proposal Submissions

A. Proposals must be received with all required submittals (See Section 4) as stated in the RFP no later than 2:00 p.m. CT on July 20, 2026. Proposals received after the time specified may not be considered for award.

B. Proposal Delivery.

1. Firms shall submit one (1) original, unbound proposal (all required documents with no spiral binding) via USPS, courier, or hand delivery to

Andrew Campbell, Buyer

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority

1350 East 17th Street

Kansas City, MO 64108

The outside package must include the RFP number and Project Title.

2. Hand deliveries are only to KCATA’s Shipping/Receiving Department. Allow time for navigating through security and parking. Proposals delivered to other locations at KCATA may be considered late and non-responsive.

3. Firms are to provide a complete copy of their proposal on a USB drive, without password protection:

• Each Volume 1 through 3 to be submitted in a separate .pdf and labeled accordingly

• Financial Statements to be submitted separately and labeled CONFIDENTIAL

• Redlined Contract Terms and Conditions are submitted in Word format.

4. Proposals received via electronic mail (email), or password protected USB drives will not be considered.

2.3 Assignability

A. In the event that the KCATA or any participating agency does not purchase its maximum vehicle allotment due to unforeseen circumstances or lack of funding, each agency may assign the remainder of its vehicle allotment (up to its maximum requirements set forth herein) to another recipient of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding. The right of assignment shall remain in force over the five-year contract term. This right of assignment will not change the quantity or types of vehicles that may be ordered pursuant to this solicitation. KCATA shall incur no financial responsibility or other liability in connection with contracts entered into between the Contractor and another participating agency. The participating agency shall accept sole responsibility for placing orders and making payments to the Contractor.

B. KCATA shall have the right to sell, assign or transfer the contract and all or part of the specified deliverables under the contract, both the base and/or the option quantities with all its right, title, and interest therein, to any person, firm or corporation, and the assignee thereof shall acquire all the rights granted to KCATA and shall be subject to any obligations that KCATA may have under the contract.

2.4 Reservations

A. KCATA reserves the right to waive informalities or irregularities in proposals, to accept or reject any or all proposals, to cancel this RFP in part or in its entirety, and to re-advertise the RFP if it is in the best interest of the Authority. KCATA shall be the sole judge of what is in its best interest with respect to this RFP.

B. KCATA reserves the right to make multiple awards if it is in the best interest of the Authority.

C. KCATA also reserves the right to award a contract solely on the basis of the initial proposal without interviews or negotiations. Therefore, offers should be submitted to KCATA on the most favorable terms possible, from a technical standpoint.

2.5 Proposer’s Responsibilities

A. By submitting a proposal, the Proposer represents that:

1. The Proposer has read and understands the RFP and the proposal is made in accordance with the RFP requirements and instructions;

2. The Proposer possesses the capabilities, resources, and personnel necessary to provide efficient and successful service to KCATA; and

3. The Proposer is authorized to transact business in the States of Missouri and Kansas.

B. Before submitting a proposal, the Proposer should make all investigations and examinations necessary to ascertain site or other conditions and requirements affecting the full performance of the contract.

2.6 Authorization to Propose

If an individual doing business under a fictitious name makes the proposal, the proposal should so state. If the proposal is made by a partnership, the full names and addresses of all members of the partnership must be given and one principal member should sign the proposal. If a corporation makes the proposal, an authorized officer should sign the proposal in the corporate name. If the proposal is made by a joint venture, the full names and addresses of all members of the joint venture should be given and one authorized member should sign the proposal.

2.7 Withdrawal & Incomplete Proposals

A. Proposals may be withdrawn upon written request received by KCATA before proposal closes. Withdrawal of a proposal does not prejudice the right of the Proposer to submit a new proposal, provided the new proposal is received before the closing date.

B. Incomplete proposals may render the proposal non-responsive.

2.8 Modification of Proposals

Any proposal modifications or revisions received after the time specified for proposal closing may not be considered.

2.9 Approved Equals

A. Wherever brand, manufacturer, or product names Wherever brand, manufacturer, or product names are used, they are included only for the purposes of establishing a description of minimum quality of the requested item unless otherwise specified.  This inclusion is not to be considered as advocating or prescribing the use of any particular brand or item or product.  However, approved equals or better must be pre-approved by the Buyer. All requests for approved equals shall be received in writing by no later than June17, 2026.

B. All requests for approved equals shall be received in writing.  Any changes to the specifications will be made by addendum.  Bidders may discuss the specification with the KCATA Procurement Department; however, requests for changes shall be written and documented.

C. When an approved equal is requested, the Bidder shall demonstrate the quality of its product to the KCATA, and shall furnish sufficient technical data, test results, etc. to enable the KCATA to determine whether the Bidder’s product is or is not equal to specifications

2.10 Unbalanced Proposals

KCATA may determine that an offer is unacceptable if the prices proposed are materially unbalanced. An offer is

materially unbalanced when it is based on prices significantly less than cost for some work and prices which are significantly overstated in relation to cost for other work.

2.11 Protests

A. The following protest procedures will be employed for this procurement. For the purposes of these procedures, “days” shall mean business days of KCATA administrative personnel which are days other than a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday observed by KCATA for such administrative personnel.

1. Pre-Submittal. A pre-submittal protest is received prior to the proposal’s due date. Pre-submittal protests must be received by the Authority, in writing and addressed to KCATA’s Director of Procurement, no later than five (5) days before the bid closing date.

2. Post-Submittal/Pre-Award. A post-submittal/pre-award protest is a protest against making an award and is received after receipt of proposals but before award of a contract. Post-submittal protests must be received by the Authority, in writing and addressed to the KCATA’s Director of Procurement, no later than five (5) days after the bid closing date.

3. Post-Award. Post-Award protests must be received by the Authority, in writing and addressed to KCATA’s Director of Procurement, no later than five (5) days after the date of the Notice of Intent to Award.

B. KCATA’s Director of Procurement shall respond in writing within five (5) days from the date of the written request. If the protester is not satisfied with the response of the Director of Procurement, the protester may appeal in writing to KCATA’s Chief Financial Officer within five (5) days from the date of the Director of Procurement’s response.

C. The Chief Financial Officer will decide if the protest and the appeal (if any) have been given fair and reasonable consideration, or if additional consideration is warranted. The Chief Financial Officer’s response will be provided within ten (10) days after receipt of the request. The Chief Financial Officer’s decision is final and no further action on the protest shall be taken by the KCATA.

D. By written notice to all parties, KCATA’s Director of Procurement may extend the time provided for each step of the protest procedures, extend the date of notice of award, or postpone the award of a contract if deemed appropriate for protest resolution.

E. Protesters shall be aware of the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) protest procedures with the FTA Regional Office (ref: FTA Circular 4220.1F). If federal funding is involved, FTA will review protests from a third party only when: 1) a grantee does not have a written protest procedure or fails to follow its procedure or fails to review a complaint or protest; or 2) violations of specific federal laws or regulations have occurred.

F. An appeal to FTA must be received by FTA’s regional office within five (5) working days of the date the protester learned or should have learned of KCATA’s decision. Protests shall be addressed to: Regional Administrator, FTA Region 7, 901 Locust, Room 404, Kansas City, Missouri, 64106.

2.12 Disclosure of Proprietary Information.

A. A proposer may restrict the disclosure of scientific and technological innovations in which it has a proprietary interest, or other information that is protected from public disclosure by law, which is contained in the proposal by:

1. marking each page of each such document prominently in at least 16-point font with the words “Proprietary Information;”

2. printing each page of each such document on a different color paper than the paper on which the remainder of the proposal is printed; and

3. segregating each page of each such document in a sealed envelope, which shall prominently display, on the outside, the words “Proprietary Information” in at least 16-point font, along with the name and address of the Proposer.

B. After either a contract is executed pursuant to this RFP, or all proposals are rejected, the proposals will be considered public records open for inspection. If access to documents marked “Proprietary Information,” as provided above, is requested under the Missouri Sunshine Law, Section 610 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the KCATA will notify the Proposer of the request, and the Proposer shall have the burden to establish that such documents are exempt from disclosure under the law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in response to a formal request for information, the KCATA reserves the right to release any documents if the KCATA determines that such information is a public record pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law.

2.13 Diverse Business Enterprise Requirements

A. It is KCATA’s policy that Disadvantaged (DBE), Small (SBE), Minority (MBE), Woman (WBE), and Small Local (SLBE) Owned Business Enterprises have an equal opportunity to participate in the competitive solicitation process and contract awards, and diverse firms are encouraged to submit proposals as prime contractors, joint ventures, or subcontractors.

B. KCATA’s diversity programs are subject to the requirements of 49 CFR Part 26, and it is KCATA’s policy to:

1. Ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of contracts;

2. Create a level playing field on which diverse firms can compete fairly for DOT-assisted contracts;

3. Ensure that KCATA’s diversity programs are narrowly tailored in accordance with applicable law;

4. Ensure that only firms that fully meet 49 CFR Part 26 eligibility are permitted to participate in the programs;

5. Help remove barriers to the participation of diverse firms in contracts;

6. To promote the use of diverse firms in all types of contracts and procurement activities; and

7. Assist in the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside the diversity programs.

C. Funding for projects under these contracts may be funded in part by the federal agencies (i.e., Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), or may be a combination of funds appropriated by the state, county, or city governments. Federally funded projects will be subject to DBE and SBE requirements. For projects funded by other sources, MBE, WBE or SLBE requirements will apply.

D. There is no diversity goal established for this project.

E. Non-discrimination. Proposers shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability in the performance of this project. The Proposer shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 CFR Part 26 in the award and administration of contracts. Failure by the Proposer to carry out these requirements is a material breach of the resulting contract, which may result in the termination of the contract or such other remedy as KCATA deems appropriate.

2.14 Delivery Documents

1. Delivery. Unless otherwise specified, the buses shall be delivered to the KCATA and/or Participating Agencies during normal business hours, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. Delivery shall be to the KCATA Maintenance Division located at 1350 East 17th Street, Kansas City, Missouri , 64108 or the Participating Agency, as applicable.

2. The following documents are required at time of delivery:

a. Certificate of origin

b. Dealer invoice

c. Damage disclosure

d. Operator’s manual for vehicle and add-on equipment

e. Maintenance and inspection schedule incorporating the required maintenance and inspection of the basic vehicle and its sub-systems.

f. Warranty information for chassis, body and additional equipment.

g. Altoona Test Report for this vehicle (as applicable)

h. Buy America documentation, as applicable.

i. Weight Master Certificate

j. A complete set of as-built drawings, including electrical schematics.

SECTION 3

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION, EVALUATION AND AWARD

3.1 Introduction

The intent of the RFP is to encourage submittals that clearly communicate the contractor’s qualifications for the Project. Proposals should provide information in a concise, and well-written, well-organized manner containing only information relevant to this Project. All proposals should follow the format specified below as this will assist the evaluation committee in determining the most highly qualified contractor. Firms are encouraged to submit only proposal material that is relative to the contractor services and scope cited. Including extra marketing materials and publications is discouraged.

3.2 Proposal Format

A. Volumes shall be submitted in the following order:

• Volume 1: Price Proposal - One (1) unbound original and Once (1) copy in Excel format

• Volume 2: Technical Proposal - One (1) unbound original (labeled/stamped Original) and six (6) copies.

• Volume 3: Contractual Documents - One (1) original of the completed, signed submittals as specified in Section 3.5 below and in Attachment A, “Proposal Checklist.”

B. Proposers shall submit each Volume as a separate document in .pdf format. Each document is to be labeled with the volume number and the Proposer’s name.

C. No Cost Proposal information is to be included within Volumes 2 and 3. Volumes 1 and 3 are not shared with the evaluation team.

D. Submission of a proposal shall constitute a firm offer to KCATA for one hundred twenty (120) days from the date of closing.

3.3 Volume 1 – Price Proposal

A. Proposers are asked to submit a Price Proposal to include all costs associated with the provision of transit vehicles as described in Section 4, “Technical Specifications”.

B. The prices must be fair and reasonable and should include all items of labor, materials, and other costs necessary to perform the contract. Any items omitted from this RFP which are clearly necessary for the completion of the work being proposed should be considered part of the work though not directly specified or called for in this RFP.

C. Proposal Bond. A proposal bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the full expected price for Thirty (30) buses based on the first year of the contract, reflected in U.S. dollars must be enclosed in Volume III.

E. Performance Bond. A performance bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the full expected cost of the first year of the contract may be required within ten (10) days from Notice of Intent to Award and prior to final award of a contract.

F. Proposers may submit additional pages as necessary. Each additional page shall be labeled with the Proposer’s Name and signed by the Authorized Representative.

G. Proposals for alternative pricing shall be clearly marked as such.

H. The Price Proposal documents shall be submitted in a separate Excel document. No price information is to be included in the Technical Proposal (Volume 2).

3.4 Volume 2 – Technical Proposal

A. The Technical Proposal page limit is 40 pages. The Proposer may choose to allocate pages between any of the evaluation criteria as long as the Proposal does not exceed 40 pages. If a Proposer submits a proposal exceeding this limit, KCATA will consider the pages up to the allowable number and discard all subsequent pages.

B. One page is defined as one side of a single, 8-1/2 x 11” page, with 11-point minimum font size for the substantive text. Any page over this size will be counted as two (2) pages. Any page or partial page with substantive text, tables, graphics, charts, etc., will be counted as one (1) page. Proposers may use their discretion for the font size of other materials (e.g., graphics, charts).

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