The Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) will comply with System Policy 25.06 [PDF] , Participation by Historically Underutilized Business, and System Regulation 25.06.01 [PDF] , System HUB Program.
TTI will make a good faith effort to assist Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) in gaining equal access and equal opportunities to receive awards for the procurement of supplies, materials, equipment, and services, as well as contract and subcontract awards for construction projects, in accordance with the rules established by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
The TTI procurement process is handled by the Texas A&M University (TAMU) Department of Purchasing Services for purchases over $5,000. TTI division, program, and center personnel handle delegated purchases, which are those $5,000 or less. The Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) Facilities Planning & Construction Department will solicit HUBs for opportunities with TTI construction contracts if any develop for the Agency. The goal of all is to involve qualified HUBs in bidding opportunities for goods and services for all procurements made on behalf of the Agency.
The TTI HUB Coordinator and staff will administer the TTI HUB Program in accordance with applicable State of Texas laws and statutes, The Texas A&M University System policies and regulations, and the Agency Historically Underutilized Business Plan (HPIP).
The HUB Coordinator and staff will provide training to TTI divisions, programs, and centers regarding equal access and opportunities for HUBs. Information will also be provided on using various resources to locate HUBs.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will send information to TTI staff regarding certified HUB vendors and the types of goods and services that the vendors provide. Each division, program, and center will be encouraged to include those identified HUBs when soliciting bids or proposals.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will include HUB related activities and information on its web page as appropriate.
HUB participation reports will be reviewed by the HUB Coordinator and staff on a monthly basis. HUB efforts will be reviewed with division, program, and center staff as needed.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will be involved in specialized forums for HUBs, as well as division, program, and center staff.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will identify and participate whenever possible in activities provided by the State or an agency of the State that promotes the inclusion of minority and/or women businesses. Such activities include the HUB Discussion Group, the Texas Universities HUB Coordinators Alliance, etc.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will coordinate, facilitate, and participate in activities that promote economic opportunities for HUBs. TTI will coordinate with one or more of The Texas A&M University System components to conserve resources in accomplishing this outreach.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will utilize the TAMUS Facilities Planning & Construction Department to solicit HUBs for opportunities with TTI construction contracts if any develop for the agency.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will answer questions about the HUB certification process and will review HUB certification applications as needed.
The HUB Coordinator and staff will provide information to minority business organizations through a web page. The TAMU Department of Purchasing Services will also have purchasing opportunities on behalf of TTI available.
Interact with minority organizations or chambers of commerce to answer questions and provide HUB information.