DescriptionRequest for Proposals (RFP)
Elevator Modernization Services
HustonTillotson University
900 Chicon Street Austin Texas 78702
1. Introduction and Purpose
HustonTillotson University (HT) hereby invites qualified elevator modernization contractors to submit proposals for the modernization of two (2) existing hydraulic passenger elevators located on the Universitys main campus in Austin Texas.
This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and is therefore subject to all applicable federal grant regulations including but not limited to 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Guidance) institutional procurement policies and applicable state and local laws.
Elevators Included
- JacksonMoody Building One (1) hydraulic passenger elevator
- DickeyLawless Building One (1) hydraulic passenger elevator
2. Project Location
HustonTillotson University
900 Chicon Street
Austin TX 78702
3. Project Background
The elevators in the JacksonMoody and DickeyLawless buildings are aging hydraulic units that require comprehensive modernization to:
- Improve reliability and operational performance
- Bring systems into compliance with current ASME A17.1 Safety Code and safety requirements
- Enhance safety accessibility and lifecycle sustainability
4. Scope of Work (General Requirements)
The selected contractor shall provide turnkey elevator modernization services including labor materials equipment engineering permitting testing inspections and coordination.
4.1 General Modernization Requirements (Both Elevators)
The proposed modernization shall include at a minimum:
A. Machine Room and Hoistway
- New solidstate elevator controller suitable for hydraulic application
- New submersible hydraulic power unit (tank motor pump valve assembly oil)
- New landing system
- Replacement of machine room and hoistway wiring
- New traveling cable
- New hoistway switches
- Retention of existing rails and rail fastenings where structurally acceptable
B. Elevator Car Equipment
- New car guide assemblies
- New topofcar inspection station
- Retention of existing car enclosure and platform unless otherwise proposed
C. Car Operating Fixtures and Controls
- New car operating panel (COP)
- Illuminated car call pushbuttons
- Door open/close pushbuttons
- Emergency stop and alarm systems
- Independent service and firefighter service controls
- Digital position indicator
- Voice annunciation system
- Twoway handsfree emergency communication system
- Emergency lighting and alarm bell
- Safety compliant braille and tactile signage
D. Doors and Entrances
- New car door operator
- New door track header hanger assemblies
- Infrared door protection system
- New door interlocks and gibs
- Retention of existing entrance frames and panels where feasible
E. Hallway Fixtures
- New hall call stations at each landing
- Illuminated hall pushbuttons
- Fire Service Phase I key switches
- ADAcompliant jamb braille plates
F. Elevator Pit Equipment
- New pit stop switch
- Codecompliant pit ladder
- New packing
- Refurbishment or replacement of buffers as required
- Retention of existing cylinder and piston if serviceable
5. Associated Building and Trade Work
Proposals shall include coordination (and pricing if provided by the contractor) for work typically required in conjunction with elevator modernization including:
- Electrical disconnects and conduit
- Machine room lighting and GFCI receptacles
- Firerated machine room door installation
- Fire stopping and caulking
- Fire alarm system disconnect reconnection testing and final acceptance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
- Pit lighting and electrical upgrades
Contractors must clearly state what work is selfperformed subcontracted or excluded.
6. Optional Alternates
Proposers may include addalternate pricing for:
- Elevator cab interior upgrades (wall panels ceiling lighting handrails)
Alternates should be clearly identified and separately priced.
7. Project Schedule
- Work shall be performed during normal business hours (MondayFriday) unless otherwise approved.
- Proposer shall include:
- Submittal and approval timeline
- Manufacturing lead time
- Installation time per elevator
- Work must be sequenced to maintain campus accessibility.
8. Compliance and Standards
All work must comply with:
- ASME A17.1 / CSA B44 Safety Code for Elevators
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
- Local AHJ requirements
- U.S. Department of Education grant compliance requirements
Qualifications9. Contractor Qualifications
Proposers must demonstrate:
- Minimum five (5) years experience in elevator modernization
- Licensed to perform elevator work in Texas
- Experience with highereducation or publicly funded projects
- Ability to comply with federal grant procurement standards
- Proof of insurance and bonding capacity
10. Proposal Submission Requirements
Proposals shall include:
- Executive Summary
- Technical Approach and Scope Compliance
- Detailed Project Schedule
- Cost Proposal (base bid and alternates)
- Company Qualifications and References
- Compliance Statements (ASME DOE funding etc.)
- Exceptions or Clarifications
- Warranty Information
11. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Technical compliance with scope
- Cost effectiveness
- Contractor experience and qualifications
- Schedule feasibility
- Responsiveness and clarity
HT reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
12. Funding and Payment
This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
Payment terms will be subject to:
- Grant compliance requirements
- University procurement policies
- Satisfactory performance and documentation
13. Submission Instructions
Proposal Due Date: February 8 2026
Submission Method: Electronic:
Contact Person: Dr. Kenneth Crawford Chief Operations Officer
Ph: 512.505.3003
Email: