Cadillac rest area digital sign award recommendation

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has awarded a contract for a Smokey the Bear digital sign project at the Cadillac Rest Area to Universal Sign, Inc., for $50,745 under RFP 25-2186, with the Notice of Intent to Award issued July 15, 2026 and a final award recommendation due by July 22, 2026.

The scope comprises a Daktronics digital sign, sign base fabrication and installation, and associated electrical work as a one-time purchase with no option years. Mandatory minimum requirements included a passing proposal document, certificate of liability insurance, and state project registration.

Three bidders responded to the June 9 posting with a June 26 deadline: Apex Excavating, J. Ranck Electric, Inc., and Universal Sign, Inc. Apex Excavating was eliminated for failure to meet mandatory requirements. The two responsive and responsible bidders proceeded to price evaluation. J. Ranck Electric submitted $56,900; Universal Sign, Inc., submitted the lowest bid of $50,745, which became the award recommendation. Neither bidder held Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business or Geographically Disadvantaged Business Enterprise certification. Bidders not recommended for award may request a debriefing from Solicitation Manager Lisa Crozier-Green.