chicago rockford intl airport 26-21MonumentEntranceSign_090326.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) #26-21

Page 1 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Request Description: GRAA Monument Entrance Sign

Issue Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026

Optional Meeting: Thursday, October 1, 2026, 1:30PM CDT. Meet at the Entrance sign. In case of weather issues, meet inside 60 Airport Drive, Rockford IL 61109

Questions Due By: Thursday, October 8, 2026

Proposals Due: Friday, October 16 , 2026, 10:30AM CDT

RESPONSES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN THE PUBLIC OPENING DATE AND TIME (LOCAL TIME) SPECIFIED ABOVE. RESPONSES WILL BE OPENED AND PUBLISHED AT THAT TIME. LATE RESPONSES WILL

NOT BE CONSIDERED.

TO ALL PROSPECTIVE CONTRACTORS:

You are hereby invited to submit your qualifications to be furnished and delivered to the address specified herein.

All RFP submissions must be received by the due date, either in hard copy delivered to Chip Geiger, 60 Airport Drive, Rockford IL 61109, or electronically via BidNetDirect.com.

All submissions are subject to staff analysis and Board approval. The Greater Rockford Airport Authority (Authority) reserves the right to accept or reject any and all submissions received and waive any and all technicalities.

Direct any and all inquiries about this bid to rfp@flyrfd.com .

Non Mandatory Pre-bid Meeting - October 1, 2026 Y

Performance Bond Required N

Prevailing Wage Required Y

Page 2 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

GRAA Monument Entrance Sign

RFP Number: 26-21

1. Notice of Request for Proposals The Greater Rockford Airport Authority (GRAA) is soliciting proposals for the design, fabrication, furnishing, delivery, installation, and completion of a new entrance monument sign at the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

The proposed monument sign shall provide a professional, durable, attractive, and highly visible entrance feature consistent with the image and character of the Airport.

The Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, equipment, supervision, engineering, transportation, installation, and incidental items necessary to provide a complete and operational monument sign installation.

The proposed sign shall prominently display "RFD". Variations in architectural design, materials, configuration, and construction methods will be considered provided that the proposed design meets the functional, durability, visibility, and aesthetic requirements of this Scope of Work.

2. General Terms and Conditions

2.1 Non-Discrimination

Contractor shall comply with the Illinois Human Rights Act, 775, ILCS 5/1-101 et seq., as amended and any rules and regulations promulgated in accordance therewith, including, but not limited to the Equal Opportunity Clause, Illinois Administrative Code, Title 44, Part 750 (Appendix A), which is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, the Contractor shall comply with the Public Works Employment Discrimination Act, 775 ILCS 10/0.01 et seq., as amended.

During the performance of this Contract, the Contractor agrees that it shall not discriminate against any worker, employee or applicant, or any member of the public, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, or sexual orientation. Upon request of the Authority, the Contractor also agrees to submit in writing an affirmative action plan demonstrating compliance with equal employment opportunity laws and policies. Contractor further agrees that this clause will be incorporated by the Contractor in all contracts entered into with suppliers or materials or services, sub-Contractors and all labor organizations furnishing skilled, unskilled, and craft union skilled labor, or any other person or organization performing services in connection with this Contract.

2.2 Executive Order dated March 26, 2026

In connection with the performance of work under this contract, the contractor agrees as follows:

1. The contractor will not engage in any racially discriminatory DEI activities, as defined in section 2 of the Executive Order of March 26, 2026 (Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors);

Page 3 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

2. The contractor will furnish all information and reports, including providing access to books, records, and accounts, as required by the contracting agency pursuant to the Executive Order of March 26, 2026 (Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors), for purposes of ascertaining compliance with this clause;

3. In the event of the contractor’s or a subcontractor’s noncompliance with this clause, this contract may be canceled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part, and the contractor or subcontractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts;

4. The contractor will report any subcontractor’s known or reasonably knowable conduct that may violate this clause to the contracting department or agency and take any appropriate remedial actions directed by the contracting department or agency;

5. The contractor will inform the contracting department or agency if a subcontractor sues the contractor and the suit puts at issue, in any way, the validity of this clause; and

6. The contractor recognizes that compliance with the requirements of this clause are material to the Government’s payment decisions for purposes of section 3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code (False Claims Act).”

2.3 Drug-Free Workplace

The Contractor agrees to provide a drug free workplace as provided for in the Drug Free Workplace Act, 30 ILCS 580/1, et seq.

2.4 Tax Exemption

The Greater Rockford Airport Authority is not subject to Federal Excise Tax. Per Illinois Compiled Statuses, 35 ILCS 120/2-5, the Greater Rockford Airport Authority is exempt from state and local taxes. Our exempt number is E9992-3521-05.

2.5 Warranties

Contractor warrants that all goods and services furnished hereunder will conform in all respects to the terms of this solicitation, including any drawings, specifications or standards incorporated herein, and that they will be free from latent and patent defects in materials, workmanship and title, and will be free from such defects in design. In addition, Contractor warrants that said goods and services are suitable for, and will perform in accordance with, the purposes for which they are purchased, fabricated, manufactured and designed or for such other purposes as are expressly specified in this solicitation. The Authority may return any nonconforming or defective items to the Contractor or require correction or replacement of the item at the time the defect is discovered, all at the Contractor’s risk and expense. Acceptance shall not relieve the Contractor of its responsibility.

2.6 Indemnification

Contractor agrees to indemnify, save harmless and defend the Greater Rockford Airport Authority, its agents, servants, Commissioners, and employees, and each of them against and hold it and them harmless from any and all lawsuits, claims, demands, liabilities, losses or expenses, including court costs and attorneys’ fees, for or on account of any injury to any person, or any death at any time resulting from such injury, or any damage to any property, which may arise or which may be alleged to have arisen, in whole or

Page 4 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx in part, out of or in connection with the work covered by this contract. The foregoing indemnity shall apply except if such injury, death or damage is caused directly and solely by the negligence or other fault of the Greater Rockford Airport Authority, its agents, servants, Commissioners, or employees or any other person indemnified hereunder. This indemnification obligation is not limited by, but is in addition to the insurance obligations, which may be contained in this contract. The provision of this paragraph shall not be waived.

2.7 Termination and Default

If delivery of acceptable items or rendering of services is not completed by the time promised, the Authority reserves the right, without liability, in addition to its other rights and remedies, to terminate the contract by notice effective when received by Contractor, as to stated items not yet shipped or services not yet rendered and to purchase substitute items or services elsewhere and charge the Contractor with any or all losses incurred. The Authority shall be entitled to recover its attorney’s fees and expenses in any successful action by the Authority to enforce this contract. No Fault Termination of services is granted to either party with a 90-day written notice.

2.8 Royalties and Patents

Contractor shall pay all royalties and license fees. Contractor shall defend all suits or claims for infringement of any patent, copyright or trademark rights and shall hold the Authority harmless from loss on account thereof.

2.9 Regulatory Compliance

Contractor represents and warrants that the goods or services furnished hereunder (including all labels, packages and containers for said goods) comply with all applicable standards, rules and regulations in effect under the requirements of all Federal, State and local laws, rules and regulations as applicable, including the Occupational Safety and Health Act as amended, with respect to design, construction, manufacture or use for their intended purpose of said goods or services.

Pursuant to Illinois Municipal Code 65 ILCS 5/11-42.1-1, by signing this bid the Contractor certifies that it is not delinquent in the payment of any tax administered by the Department of Revenue.

All Contractor and subcontractors, by signing this bid, agree that all individuals assigned to the project(s) concerning this bid are in compliance with: (a) providing health and welfare and retirement benefits, (b) correctly classifying employees, and (c) meeting the minimum workers’ compensation requirements.

The Contractor certifies that they are not barred from bidding on this contract as a result of engaging in or being convicted of: (a) bid-rigging in violation of Section 3; or (b) bid-rotating in violation of Section 4, of the Illinois Criminal Code of 1961, as amended [720 ILCS 5/33E-3 and 4].

2.10 Discounts

Prices quoted must be net after deducting all trade and quantity discounts. Where cash discounts for prompt payment are offered, the discount period shall begin with the date of receipt of a correct invoice or receipt or final acceptance of goods, whichever is later. The Authority is a member of Sourcewell and OMNIA buying groups and welcomes any independent contract pricing.

Page 5 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

2.11 Inspections

The Authority shall have the right to inspect any materials, components, equipment, supplies, services, or completed work specified herein. Any of said items not complying with these specifications are subject to rejection at the option of the Authority. Any items rejected shall be removed from the premises of the Authority and/or replaced at the entire expense of the Contractor.

2.12 References

To allow the Authority to evaluate the experience of the Contractor, as it relates to this purchase, the Contractor must submit a minimum of three (3) references of organizations that have purchased similar services. Pictures and any other documentation would be helpful. Failure to include references may result in bid disqualification. See Exhibit 1.

2.13 Law Governing

This contract shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of the State of Illinois.

3. Scope of Work

3.1 Pricing

a. We would like to see proposals that are within our $90,000 budget for this project. That would not include the demolition of the current structure or the landscaping, those will be evaluated as a separate line item to this task. You may submit multiple proposals for us to consider.

b. Alternate 1 would be for the demolition of the current sign to a state that would allow the contractors building of the new monument sign on site.

c. Alternate 2 would be the landscaping of the area around the sign. Plants and bushes would be a coordinated buy from GRAA, we are looking for labor costs.

d. Pictures are attached in Exhibit 3 as a template for our project. Variations will be entertained, but must contain “RFD” prominently displayed.

3.2 Design Requirements

The proposed monument sign shall:

a. Prominently display "RFD" in a manner clearly visible to approaching vehicular traffic.

b. Present a professional, high-quality architectural appearance appropriate for a major airport entrance.

c. Be appropriately scaled to the existing site and surrounding roadway.

d. Provide sufficient contrast, size, and illumination, where applicable, to provide clear identification during both daytime and nighttime conditions.

e. Utilize durable exterior-grade materials suitable for year-round exposure to Northern Illinois weather conditions.

f. Be designed to minimize maintenance requirements.

g. Be resistant to corrosion, fading, deterioration, and other effects associated with outdoor exposure.

h. Be designed and constructed to withstand applicable wind, snow, ice, temperature, and other environmental loads.

i. Avoid sharp edges, exposed fasteners, or other conditions that may create an unnecessary safety hazard.

j. Coordinate aesthetically with existing Airport facilities and site improvements.

Page 6 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

3.3 Existing Sign

The current sign will be demolished and replaced by this new proposal. The current dimensions are:

Approximate dimensions.

Sign pad (Blue) 4’ x 15.5’

Current Landscaping Block (Green) 26.9’ x 14.75’

3.4 Lighting

If illumination is proposed or required, the sign shall provide uniform and professional illumination appropriate for an airport entrance. Illumination shall:

a. Provide clear nighttime identification;

b. Minimize glare and light trespass;

c. Avoid visible hot spots where reasonably practicable;

d. Utilize energy-efficient technology;

e. Include appropriate controls;

f. Be suitable for outdoor conditions;

g. Provide readily serviceable components; and

h. Comply with applicable electrical codes and requirements.

i. LED technology or an approved equivalent is acceptable.

3.5 Inspection

The Authority reserves the right to inspect all orders for specification compliance before acceptance.

Non-compliant repairs shall be rectified by the chosen supplier at no cost to the Authority.

3.6 Invoicing and Payment

The goal of the Authority is to pay properly submitted Contractor invoices within thirty (30) days of receipt, providing goods have been delivered and/or services have been performed, approved and accepted by the Greater Rockford Airport Authority. Original invoices must be presented for payment

Page 7 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx in accordance with instructions contained on the Purchase Order including reference to Purchase Order number and submitted to the correct address for processing.

3.7 Submittals and Approval

The proposal will include drawings and product information for Authority review and approval.

Submittals should include:

• Overall dimensions;

• Materials;

• Colors and finishes;

• Lettering and graphics;

• Illumination details;

• Electrical details;

• Structural details;

• Foundation and anchorage details;

• Product data;

• Warranty information;

• Proposed installation schedule.

4. Proposer Qualifications

Proposers should demonstrate:

• Properly licensed contractor status

• Minimum five (5) years experience designing and installing monument signs

• Sufficient staffing and equipment to meet response requirements

• Proven implementations meeting design and budgetary requirements

5. FAA Airport Grant Assurances

This contract is subject to the following FAA Airport Grant Assurances, including but not limited to:

5.1 Nondiscrimination (Grant Assurance 22)

The Contractor shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and shall comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 49 CFR Part 21, and related regulations.

5.2 Use of U.S.-Produced Goods (Buy American Preference) (Grant Assurance 5)

The Contractor shall comply with 49 U.S.C. § 50101 and applicable Buy American requirements for AIP-funded projects.

5.3 Civil Rights and Federal Compliance

Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable federal laws, executive orders, and regulations, including but not limited to:

• Equal Employment Opportunity requirements

Page 8 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

• Davis-Bacon Act

• Debarment and Suspension (2 CFR Part 180)

6. Insurance Requirements

During the term of the agreement, the Vendor will, at its own expense, have in effect the coverages listed below, as applicable. The vendor shall also require the same from all of its subcontractors engaged in the work.

Commercial General Liability:

Employers liability coverage:

Conditions Applying to All Coverages:

If any of the insurance required to be maintained by this contract is written with aggregate limits, Vendor shall actively monitor all claims, incidents and occurrences that may affect such insurance to assure that the application of the aggregate limit will not have the practical effect of reducing the minimum amount of insurance coverage that is available on a per occurrence or per claim basis. If, at any time, the full minimum per occurrence or per claim limit is not available for the payment of claims, or GRAA or Vendor reasonably believes that such limits may not be available, Vendor shall take immediate steps to increase the aggregate limits as necessary to provide such coverage, notify GRAA in writing, subject to the insurance requirements herein, maintain separate insurance protection that is not subject to the aggregate limit.

7. Scoring Criteria

Submissions will be scored based on the following information:

• Projected fit to GRAA landscape - 20 points

• Contractor’s experience and qualifications – 20 points

• Thoroughness of the proposal– 20 points

• Review of comparable work– 20 points

• Safety record and protocols - 10 points

• Perceived ability to meet budget– 10 points

8. Reservation of Rights

The Airport reserves the right to:

• Reject any or all proposals

• Waive informalities or irregularities

• Request additional information

• Cancel or modify this solicitation

• Negotiate with selected respondents

Page 9 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Exhibit 1 Required References

Company Name:

Address:

Contact Person:

Telephone #:

Email:

Contact Person:

Contact Person:

Page 10 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Exhibit 2

Company Name: ___________________________________________________

26-21 Terminal Monument Entrance Sign Pricing Proposal

Base Bid New Monument Sign $ _______________________

Alternate 1 Demolition of Existing Sign $ _______________________

Alternate 2 Landscaping Labor $ _______________________

Total Base and Alternates $ _______________________

By signing this bid document, the bidder hereby certifies that they are not barred from bidding on this contract as a result of a violation of either Section 33E-3 or 33E-4 of the Illinois Criminal Code of 1961, as amended.

The Contractor hereby certifies that pursuant to Illinois Compiled Statutes, 65 ILCS 5/11-42-1, the Contractor is not delinquent in the payment of any tax administered by the Department of Revenue.

Our State of Illinois Certification Number under the Fair Employment Practices Law is _____________.

(check if applicable) We do not have a State Pre-Qualification Statement. In lieu thereof, we will make an application at https://dhr.illinois.gov/compliance/public-contracts.html within thirty (30) days from the date of this bid opening.

Further, the Contractor agrees to provide a drug free workplace as provided for in the Drug Free Workplace Act, 30 ILCS 580.1 et seq.

Authorized Signature: __________________________________________________

Typed/Printed Name: __________________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________________

Date: _________________________________

Page 11 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Exhibit 3 Design Examples

Page 12 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Page 13 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Current Sign

Page 14 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Page 15 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx

Page 16 of 16 U:\cgeiger\Bids\26-21MonumentEntranceSign,090326.docx