Bid guide
How to bid on retail operations at Clearwater Station for Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is seeking a retailer to operate at their Clearwater Station. This is an opportunity for a business to establish a retail presence within a public transportation hub, serving commuters and other station visitors.
This solicitation, RFP 26-220060, is for a retail operation. Vendors should consider the potential customer base and operational requirements for a location within a transit station.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The deadline for submitting proposals is August 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time.
Late submissions will likely not be considered. It is important to complete all steps of the submission process well in advance of the deadline to account for any technical issues.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for retail businesses looking to expand into a transportation-focused environment. Firms with experience in operating small-scale retail, convenience stores, or food service within high-traffic areas like transit stations or airports would be a good fit.
The relevant category for this bid is transportation, specifically concerning services provided within a transit facility.
How to respond to this solicitation
To access the full solicitation documents and submit a response, you need to go to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority procurement portal, which is hosted on Bonfire. Viewing the opportunity details is public and does not require an account.
To download the solicitation files and submit your proposal, you will need to register a free vendor account on the Bonfire portal. Ensure you complete this registration process before you intend to download documents or submit your response.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Thoroughly read all sections of the Request for Proposal (RFP) to understand PSTA's specific requirements for the retail operation. Pay close attention to any desired services, hours of operation, or specific types of retail goods mentioned.
Develop a clear and concise proposal that highlights your experience in retail, particularly in similar environments. Provide a detailed business plan outlining your proposed retail concept, operational strategy, staffing, and how you will meet the needs of the Clearwater Station users. Ensure your financial proposal is realistic and competitive.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority; the original posting controls.