C04i Attachment 9 Site Visit 1240BH26R0013.docx

This is a pre-bid site visit notice for the GAOA Blanchard Springs Caverns Tunnel Rehabilitation project (Solicitation 1240BH26R0013) issued by the USDA Forest Service for the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. The mandatory site visit is scheduled for September 9, 2026, at 10:30 Central Time at 704 Blanchard Springs Road, Fifty-Six, Arkansas 72533, approximately 12 miles north of Mountain View, AR. Attendees should RSVP to simon.freeman@usda.gov and contact Simon Freeman at 360-210-9214 if cell service is needed for navigation.

The underlying solicitation addresses comprehensive tunnel rehabilitation and safety improvements at Blanchard Springs Caverns, including structural stabilization of tunnel entrances and exits, masonry repairs, installation of instrumentation and monitoring equipment, replacement of air lock doors, security doors, suspended ceiling systems and ductwork, bypass tunnel doors, lighting and distribution systems, safety handrails, and the mine phone system. All work must be performed by qualified and licensed contractors in their respective trades and must comply with attached drawings and specifications. The project encompasses labor, equipment, supplies, testing, inspections, and incidental costs necessary for the Dripstone and Discovery Trail infrastructure repairs and safety upgrades.