751/24226. SAA; Straits State Harbor - Solar Arrays

The Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) and the Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) are seeking a Design Build Entity (DBE) to design and construct solar arrays at the Straits State Harbor in Mackinaw City, Michigan. The project involves installing canopy-style steel structure solar panels along an existing sidewalk and ground-mounted panels on a North Pier location, with the primary objective of maximizing energy production and utility offset. The procurement is a design-build contract (file number 751/24226.SAA) requiring comprehensive services including site surveys, soil testing, utility interconnection, and compliance with state and local codes. A mandatory pre-bid conference was held on September 4, 2025, with bids due on September 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time. The project timeline includes State Ad Board contract approval in October 2025, contract execution in November 2025, and substantial completion targeted for May 2026, with a total contract duration of 180 calendar days from the Notice-to-Proceed.

The solicitation includes a 10% bid preference for Qualified Disabled Veteran (QDV) businesses and requires 5% bid security. Bidders must provide proof of State Project Registration and can submit a maximum of two attachments to the SIGMA VSS system. The project has a Not-To-Exceed Bid structure with compensation categories for design services, construction labor, general conditions, and management services, and includes a provisional allowance of $100,000. Performance and payment bonds are required for contracts over $50,000, and builders risk insurance must be provided by the contractor. The existing site includes maritime infrastructure such as a transfer bridge, fishing pier, and various shoreline elements, with the solar array designed to integrate with the current facility without disrupting operations. Bidders must comply with prevailing wage rates and state and federal labor regulations, and the State reserves the right to reject any or all bids and waive irregularities in the bidding process.