IDOT Launches Procurement Reform Website

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Chief Procurement Officer Bill Grunloh today announced the launch of IDOT’s new Procurement Reform website, designed to give the public an overview of changes in IDOT’s procurement process.

Effective July 1, 2010, Public Act 96-795 and 96-920 became law, placing new requirements on vendors and bidders seeking contracts with IDOT.  The Procurement Reform legislation affects many aspects of IDOT purchasing and contracting operations, from buying pencils to building bridges.  Construction Contracting, Architect and Engineer Consultant Procurements, Non-Construction Procurements, Emergency Procurements, Sole Source Procurements, Grants, and Procurement Communications will also be impacted by the legislation. 

This website provides IDOT’s business partners with a high-level view of the functional changes under way at IDOT, including new restrictions on vendors, subcontractor requirements, transparency provisions and disclosures regarding lobbyists.

“This website provides another step forward in our effort to provide a more open and transparent government,” said Secretary Hannig.  “It also enhances our federal stimulus and Illinois Jobs Now! initiatives as we undertake the largest construction program in the state’s history.”

In 2009, for the first time in a decade, Governor Quinn and the Illinois General Assembly enacted a major capital program to fund $31 billion in statewide infrastructure improvements, titled “Illinois Jobs Now!” making this year the busiest construction season in Illinois history.

The new website provides insight into the changes that the legislation requires of IDOT and vendors or contractors seeking contracts with IDOT.  The legislation emphasizes accountability and transparency in the procurement of all goods and services.

For more details, visit the new site at http://www.dot.il.gov/procurementreform.htm.