AML 2313 Burning Star No 2

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking a qualified contractor for the Burning Star No. 2 - Coconut Road Reclamation Project (Contract No. 25-422DNR-MINES-B-47122), located approximately 6 miles east of Pinckneyville in Pope County. The project involves addressing dangerous eroded roadside slopes adjacent to two 120-inch diameter metal culvert pipes crossing the Little Beucoup Creek, with key deliverables including roadway realignment, bridge construction using precast prestressed concrete deck beams, and complete removal of existing pipes. Contractors must be prequalified with the Illinois Department of Transportation and will be responsible for comprehensive site work, including earth excavation, stone riprap placement, aggregate base course installation, and erosion control measures. The bid submission deadline is April 9, 2025, with electronic submissions required through BidBuy, and bids must remain valid for 180 days from the opening date. Evaluation criteria will focus on lowest price, responsiveness, and overall conformance to bid requirements, with emphasis on complete documentation and total project pricing.

The procurement includes several set-aside and diversity provisions, specifically a Business Enterprise Program (BEP) goal of 5% for businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. A unique employment priority exists for current and former coal industry workers, with bidders required to either employ or commit to hiring at least two former coal mine employees to receive potential contract preference. The project is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Abandoned Mined Land Grant Program, with a contract value estimated at $50,000 or greater. Contractors must comply with prevailing wage laws, Buy America procurement requirements, and provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 per occurrence for general commercial liability. Additional requirements include a 5% bid bond, potential performance bond, and strict adherence to project labor agreement terms. The contract period runs from execution through December 31, 2025, with no renewal options specified, and emphasizes employing at least 90% Illinois laborers during periods of excessive unemployment.