80013-3 Lowden State Park Concession

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking vendors to operate the concession at Lowden State Park in Morgan County through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) process. The successful bidder will be authorized to sell various food, beverage, souvenir, and recreational items at the park concession, which must be open on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, with optional additional hours available. The initial contract term is from signature to December 31, 2027, with the option to renew for up to five additional years. Vendors are required to attend a mandatory pre-bid conference, and bids are due by August 7, 2023. IDNR will not provide any equipment initially, but any equipment purchased by IDNR during the contract term will be available for the vendor's use. The vendor must pay an annual rent payment, with the highest bidder receiving the award, and is responsible for maintenance, staffing, and other concession operations, while IDNR will be responsible for utilities and maintenance of the concession building.

The solicitation includes a 10% goal for participation by Illinois Business Enterprise Program (BEP) certified vendors, which includes Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Minority-Women Business Enterprises (WMBEs). There is a 0% goal for Veteran Small Business (VSB) certified vendors. Bidders are required to submit a BEP Utilization Plan detailing how they will meet the goals or demonstrate good faith efforts. The IFB does not provide any information about incumbent vendors or the budget range for the concession contract.