RFQ Questions & Answers

Q1. I see nothing that describes the number of vehicles nor the size and condition of the vehicles. This is important as someone could offer any old used mini bus and while much less expensive they would not  comply with the ADA and the requirements of the State. Since no specs for the vehicles exist, could be of question for someone to be able to bid on the proposal. Could you please address the vehicles?         

The Scope of Work states transit vehicles must be ADA compliant.  Please see sections 12 – 14 of the Scope of Work for vehicle and driver requirements. 

Q2. Also I know “in kind” match is required based on our previous work. I assume it will once again be required but no where do I see any mention included in the RFP.  I am not sure all agencies or companies would know how to identify “in Kind”  match. Could you please address the in kind requirements?

For the continuing grant, 10% of the grant is for in-kind and for the expanding grant the in-kind rate is 5% of the grant. We require in-kind contribution of 10% for continuing and 5% for expanded.  In-kind match can be any of the following: providing meeting and event space, planning, technical assistance, resource development, building transit stops, marketing, outreach, and trips provided to rT customers, but not charged to service contract, such as deadhead miles.

Q3. The Budget is only asking for the existing service not for the expanded service as described in the Budget and Schedule. I just want to make sure the expansion aspect is not included in this evaluation.

The expanded service is included in this RFP.  Section II, Background of RFP: “Expansion service includes routes available on Saturday, a route to Yelm, mid-day routes to Tenino, and connections to Twin Transit at Mellen Street in Centralia, Lewis County”. 

Q4. Is it the intent of this contract to provide augmentation services to the existing vendor services that are being provided?

If awarded, your company would take over vendor services. 

Q5. Is the funding intended to be used for operational expenses only? Is there an additional capital budget for equipment and facilities? 

The funding is for operational expenses only.  There is no capital budget for equipment and facilities.  

Q6. Does the reduction of funds in the 2nd biennium suggest there will be a reduction of service?

The reduction in funds in the 2nd biennium reflects that the service expansion is only funded for the first biennium.  TRPC will apply for continuing funding in the next cycle.

Q7. Given the clients served by this intended agreement, what are the established partnership agreements already in place?

Currently there is no intention of establishing any other contractor agreements.

Q8. Is there an opportunity to examine redesign of the route plans to improve operational efficiency throughout the system? 

Yes, we routinely look at routes at least a couple times a year to improve efficiency.  

Q9. Is possible to receive a complete set of the current routes in either a GIS or other electronic format? 

Please follow the link, https://www.trpc.org/1062/Route-Maps The interactive map provides a map of the standing routes for rT.

Q10. Can you confirm that the “for estimating purposes only” number in the RFP (paragraph 4 of scope of work) EXCLUDES the expanded service trips/miles/pax.

This includes the expanded services.

Q11. Can you confirm we should NOT include an estimated cost for the expanded service in our budget?

Please incorporate expanded services into your budget. 

Q12. In our budget, should we include a detailed breakdown of all expenses, or are you looking for a simpler budget that only has a per labor hour rate for each employee position x total hours?

We will accept a budget by per labor hour. 

Q13. Who is the current Contractor providing this service? 

The current contractor is Around The Sound. 

Q14. Please provide a list of current vehicles being used for the service including make/model/pax limit.

We do not collect this information.

Q15. Where are the current vehicles being stored when they are not being driven?

I am not aware of the storage location for the transportation vehicles. 

Q16. Is there office space provided for our staff, and if yes, what is the approximate size and is there a charge for that?

We do not have dedicated office space for your staff. 

Updated 04/18/2023