§ 57512. Competitive bidding
(a)
In General.—
The Secretary of Transportation may charter a vessel of the Department of Transportation to a private operator only on the basis of competitive sealed bidding. The bids must be submitted in strict compliance with the terms and conditions of a public advertisement soliciting the bids.
(b)
Advertisement for Bids.—
An advertisement for bids shall state—
(c)
Opening of Bids.—
Bids required under this section shall be opened at the time and place stated in the advertisement for bids. All interested persons, including representatives of the press, shall be permitted to attend. The results of the bidding shall be publicly announced.