APTA Updates Bus Procurement Guidelines, Launches New Work Group

Procuring new buses is a complex task that has only become more complicated as the number of propulsion systems and contracting options have proliferated. The APTA Standard Bus Procurement Guidelines document helps public transit agencies create a Request for Proposals for buses. The “White Book”, as it is popularly known, has become the industry standard for bus contracting language.

A recent revision brings the document up to date with transit bus technology developments and in alignment with recommendations from the APTA Bus Manufacturing Task Force. The updated book features extensive revisions to the Technical Specifications and to the sections outlining Terms & Conditions, including Warranty and Payment Terms. The work was undertaken by APTA’s Bus Procurement Guidelines Working Group and managed by an AECOM project team led by Senior Consulting Manager Scott Baker.

The work group included more than 65 members, providing expertise from transit agencies, bus manufacturers, component suppliers, labor, consultants, government, and non-profit organizations.

APTA is grateful to every member of the working group for their dedication to this project; the success of the APTA standards process rests on the commitment of its volunteer work groups. The full list of participants who contributed to this effort, including those who took on a leadership role, can be found in the updated White Book: Standard Bus Procurement Request for Proposal.

Next Steps

APTA is taking steps to keep the White Book reflective of the latest in transit bus technology and procurement practices and to make it more user friendly with two new initiatives:

Creation of a Standing Working Group: APTA is creating a standing working group that will meet regularly to consider revisions to the White Book. The group will be chaired by James LaRusch of Raul V. Bravo + Associates and managed by Lisa Jerram, APTA sr. director, bus operations & new -vehicle technologies. Working group participation is open to all interested individuals irrespective of APTA membership. Interested individuals can reach out to Jerram at [email protected].

Automated White Book: APTA is overseeing development of an automated White Book. This tool is intended to make it easier for agencies to create an RFP for each propulsion type option. The automated White Book and associated training is coming in the fall.