ISRO Ranger IV Vessel Construction - Industry Day

The National Park Service (NPS) has issued a Special Notice announcing an Industry Day for the Ranger IV Vessel Construction project at Isle Royale National Park. Scheduled for March 4-5, 2025, the event will be held at River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe, MI, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available. The primary focus is to engage potential contractors in the construction of a new 182.5' x 36' x 18' passenger and cargo vessel that will replace the current M/V Ranger III. This vessel will transport passengers, staff, and cargo between Isle Royale and the park headquarters in Houghton, MI. The NPS plans to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) in Spring 2025, with an anticipated 24-month performance period for the selected contractor.

Contractors interested in participating must register by February 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM CT by emailing jason_burdett@nps.gov, with each company limited to three representatives. The Industry Day will include presentations on NPS contracting, Isle Royale National Park overview, and design specifications, followed by opportunities for one-on-one meetings on March 5th. The NPS is seeking a Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) with experience in similar-sized vessels, considering various acquisition structures including independent VCMs, VCMs associated with shipyards, or shipyards serving as both VCM and construction yard. The new vessel must meet United States Coast Guard (USCG) and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) certification requirements, with specific notations including A1, Passenger Vessel, Great Lakes Service, and Ice Class IE. The vessel will feature 3,500 square feet of cargo space, integrated fuel tanks, and a deck crane, making it a comprehensive solution for park transportation needs.