NIGP 85543: Lifts, Orchestra (Theater Pit Area)

NIGP 85543 Lifts, Orchestra (Theater Pit Area) is an Item code under which state and local governments are purchasing theatrical lighting systems, video projection equipment, lighting controls, and associated installation and support services for performance venues and school theaters. Recent solicitations show work encompassing complete removal and replacement of existing theatrical lighting infrastructure, installation of LED lighting fixtures with motorized projection screens, house lighting control systems, operator training, and multi-year maintenance support. Issuing bodies include school districts and municipal venues departments. The Pinellas County School District has solicited twice for theater lighting renovations—once for a single high school location (ITB #26-CD-020 at Palm Harbor University High School, $501,000 contract value) and once for three high school locations simultaneously (26CD008, approximately $1,680,000 total across Boca Ciega, East Lake, and Palm Harbor). The City of Orlando has solicited spotlight systems for the Kia Center, a major entertainment venue. Bidders must hold current Florida Electrical Contractor (EC or ES) licensure in school district procurements, demonstrate five years of continuous operation under the same legal entity, and provide evidence of at least two comparable theatrical lighting projects completed within the prior five years; subcontractors require District pre-approval. Contracts specify one-year warranties from completion with replacement parts availability for a minimum of five years, liquidated damages of $1,000 per calendar day for schedule failures, and compliance with Florida Building Code, NFPA standards, and National Electric Code requirements.

Recent activity concentrates in Florida, with Pinellas County School District and the City of Orlando posting multiple opportunities between February and June 2026. The Pinellas County School District's Theater Lighting Renovations at Palm Harbor (ITB #26-CD-020) required sealed electronic bids due May 15, 2026, with a mandatory pre-bid conference on April 27, 2026, and project completion by September 30, 2026. A second Pinellas solicitation for three locations (26CD008) had bids due March 12, 2026, with performance required within 120 days of Notice to Proceed and completion by July 31, 2026. The City of Orlando issued an IFB (IFB260290, due March 12, 2026) for ten Lycian Model 1295 ELT fixtures with 4K xenon lamps, three years of maintenance support, and virtual bid opening through Microsoft Teams; the City identified three potential bidders: Production Resource Group LLC, Bay Stage Live, and SoloTech. An earlier City of Orlando IFB (IFB250553, due November 20, 2025) sought eight spotlight fixtures with 2,000W to 4,000W xenon operation and 100–500 foot throw distances, requiring attendance at one of two mandatory pre-bid conferences. The Pinellas County School District permits consideration of pricing established through Florida Department of Management Services contracts.