Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MEI planroom?

The MEI planroom is an online service that allows contractors to download materials associated with current projects at MEI.

Who can use the MEI planroom?

Any contractor who is interested in downloading electronic copies of Bid Notices, Plans, Specifications, or Addendums associated with current projects at MEI. Be sure to check your "Spam" or "Junk" mail folders for your approval reply.

What file types are used in the MEI planroom?

Bid Plans and Specifications on many projects will be downloadable PDF file compressed in the .RAR format. Bid Notices, Specs and Addendums will typically be in PDF format. While Bid Plans will be either be in TIF or PDF file format.

What does it cost to use this service?

Signing up is free, however there is a cost associated with downloading plans and specifications.

What is the process to start using the MEI planroom?

1. Sign up for a Pay Pal Account. Paypal is a free service that allows you to safely and easily make credit card purchases over the internet without letting the vendor see your credit card number.

2. Sign up as a planroom user with MEI. This allows you to log into our site and select the items you would like to bid on. Once the item has been selected, you will be directed to our download area where you can download Bid Plans and Specs. The free utilities listed above are required to view and decompress the files that are downloaded.

3. Download Bid Plans & Specs Downloaded Bid Plans and Specs will be compressed using Win-Rar. This simply allows us to squeeze file sizes down as much as we can so they can be downloaded more efficiently. After the RAR files are downloaded you will be able to extract them to your desktop or any other location you see fit. Once the files have been extracted you will then be able to view and print the Specs. (PDF files) with Adobe Reader and the Plans (TIF files) in Brava Reader users will also be able to take measurement with Brava Reader.

After everything has been downloaded and uncompressed, the files will all be numbered in the sequence they should be arranged. Specs will start with 01 and continue using normal numbering sequence. The Bid Plans will be numbered in sequential order starting with the cover.