II. SCOPE OF SERVICES: Transportation services under this RFQ shall include transportation of DeKalb County seniors (to include those with disabilities) to and from the DeKalb County Senior Centers. This service will involve a bus route to pick up multiple seniors from their residence within DeKalb County and to drop them off at the designated senior center(s) assigned to the route. The number of seniors to receive services will be provided daily by management. Services to the County shall be charged as an hourly rate for the time spent to complete each bus route. Transportation services shall be provided during the hours of 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with the exception of DeKalb County observed holidays. Any vendors selected through this RFQ must meet all applicable requirements of the Georgia Department of Human Services Transportation Manual which governs all human services transportation in Georgia. These requirements include those listed in Section IV below pertaining to driver requirements as well as all requirements pertaining to driver training, insurance requirements, vehicle maintenance, safety inspections, recordkeeping, and vehicle monitoring. 1. Safe and Responsible Driving - a. Adherence to Traffic Laws: Ensure compliance with all traffic laws, including speed limits lawful driving maneuvers, and parking regulations, to guarantee the safety of all passengers. b. Defensive Driving: Remain up to date on defensive classes and certifications. Practice defensive driving techniques to avoid accidents and respond to potential hazards on the road. c. Moderate Vehicle Operation: Focus on gentle braking, smooth acceleration, and careful turns to provide a comfortable ride, particularly considering the needs of senior and disabled passengers. 2. Passenger Assistance and Care – a. Assisting with Boarding and Exiting: Help senior citizens board and exit the bus, especially those with mobility challenges, using wheelchair lifts, ramps, stepstools, or handrails as necessary b. Securing Passengers: Ensure that all passengers are safely seated and that any mobility devices (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs, and/or canes) are securely fastened during transit. c. Monitoring Passenger Comfort: Check on passengers regularly to ensure they are comfortable, offering assistance with seat belts or adjusting seating arrangements if needed. d. Emergency Support: Be prepared to document and report on medical events or emergencies until professional help arrives. 3. Route Management – a. Driver will follow designated plan based on their trip’s appointment time, pick up location and destination. b. Timely and Accurate Transport: Follow the designated route and schedule to ensure timely transport. c. Knowledge of Medical Facilities and Destinations: Familiarize yourself with common destinations like DeKalb senior centers, medical facilities, and community areas frequented by DeKalb seniors 4. Communication and Customer Service - a. Clear and Courteous Communication: Speak clearly and respectfully, ensuring that instructions or announcements are understood, particularly by passengers who may have hearing impairments. b. Compassionate Interaction: Show patience and understanding when interacting with seniors, recognizing that some may have cognitive or communication difficulties. c. Conflict Resolution: Address and report any disputes or issues among passengers calmly and with empathy. 5. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance – a. Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections: Conduct thorough checks of the vehicle, paying extra attention to features like wheelchair lifts, seat belts, stepstools, and wheelchair restraints. Ensure the vehicle is clean, especially free of any obstacles that could cause tripping or slips/falls. b. Participate in mandatory annual vehicle inspection by County-identified certified mechanic.dek
