Supply chain issues and higher production costs have forced Intercity Transit to re-order 28 light trucks at a price 46% more expensive than the original cost.
The Intercity Transit Authority agreed to pay the increased costs when they authorized general manager Ann Freeman-Manzanares to issue a change order to purchase the vehicles during a meeting on Wednesday, December 7.
The trucks, Advantage models of the Ford E-450, would be used as replacement vehicles for Dial-a-Lift services, a public transportation method for people with disabilities.
Procurement coordinator Katie Cunningham said that the new cost of each truck is now $262,067 or $7,337,866 overall.
Documents prepared for the meeting stated that the board initially ordered the Aerotech model of Ford E-450 from bus vehicle dealer Schetky at $179,167 for each vehicle or $5,016,691 overall.
The order was done through the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES), which awarded the contract through competitive bidding.
The Aerotech model, however, was discontinued due to supply chain issues. Intercity Transit reviewed its options with Schetky and determined that the Advantage model also met their needs.
The cost of the trucks ballooned after the vehicle manufacturer, Forest River, requested DES a price increase for the Advantage model due to increased manufacturing and labor costs.
Cunningham said that the vehicles will be purchased using a combination of Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) grants along with federal and local funds.
She added that the delivery schedule is yet to be determined due to chassis shortage.
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GmaMaggie
Are there no electric vehicles being considered for these replacements?
Saturday, December 10, 2022 Report this