Contract CW36831

The University of Nebraska at Omaha awarded a contract to the National Arbor Day Foundation for the provision of event and lodging services at Lied Lodge at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska. The contract, valued at $141,424.00, was executed on November 4, 2025, with a performance period spanning two residential sessions: July 16-25, 2026, and December 26, 2026 through January 5, 2027. This non-competitive procurement was justified under Board of Regents Policy 6.2.1.10(f)(1) based on the facility's unique capacity to accommodate the University's Master of Fine Arts in Writing program requirements.

The National Arbor Day Foundation will deliver comprehensive residential event services including overnight accommodations for 70 guests per night (50 students and 20 faculty members), complete meeting packages with meals and beverages ranging from $121.20 to $222.80 per person depending on room occupancy type, conference and break-out room facilities, faculty shuttle services to Eppley Airport at $50 per person, and a graduation dinner at $44 per person plus applicable service charges. The contract incorporates standard provisions for cancellation penalties, attrition requirements maintaining 70 percent of blocked room and meal inventory, and force majeure protections, with the University benefiting from Nebraska state tax exemption status on covered services.