RFQ 26/26 – Transportation to Independence

Columbia Public School District issued RFQ 26/26 to secure daily bus transportation for three high schools in Columbia, MO, to the city of Independence, MO. The contract covers a series of short‑term trips in March and May 2026, each transporting between 50‑70 students, and includes a supplemental “Mo‑X/Doc & Norm Direct Ecco Ride Transportation” service. First Student was selected as the awardee, outperforming other proposers such as Thompson, Windstar, and Mo‑X/Doc & Norm Direct Ecco Ride Transportation. The bid tabulation details per‑bus pricing categories (e.g., 1‑56, 2‑40, 2‑56) and outlines discount scenarios if a single vendor were to handle all trips. • Scope: Provide bus service for three Columbia high schools to/from Independence for 17 distinct trip dates in 2026. • Awarded Vendor: First Student (Overland Park, KS). • Competitive Process: Multiple bidders submitted proposals; First Student received the award. • Pricing: Unit‑price style with per‑bus costs; discount totals range from $35 k to $48 k if all trips are consolidated under one vendor.