Cantini Mosaic Reinstallation

The City of Pittsburgh Office of Management and Budget is soliciting bids for Invitation for Bid #2023-IFB-152, seeking qualified general and electrical contractors to reinstall the historic Cantini Mosaic in the Steel Plaza T-Station tunnel. The project involves carefully removing and reinstalling 28 unique mosaic panels, originally created in 1964, with a total artwork weight of approximately 3,881 pounds. Contractors will be responsible for modifying the existing interior corridor walls, adding accent lighting, and maintaining existing floor and ceiling finishes. The project requires precise coordination with Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) and BNY Mellon, with strict work restrictions including limited on-site hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and potential utility interruptions during non-revenue hours (1:30 a.m. - 4:30 a.m.). The pre-bid meeting was held on June 20, 2023, with bids due by August 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm, and an expected construction timeline of four months after the notice to proceed. Evaluation will consider compliance with bid requirements, including submission of required forms such as the Equal Opportunity Review Commission Participation Form and Statement of Affiliations.

The procurement will be a multiple prime contract with separate general and electrical contractor bids. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, contractors must submit a bid bond equal to 5% of the total cost proposal and adhere to strict background screening requirements. Liquidated damages of $500 per day will be assessed for timeline delays, though the City may consider reasonable extension requests due to potential material lead time challenges. McKay Lodge Conservation Laboratory has been engaged to conserve and transport the mosaic panels, indicating a specialized approach to the artwork's handling. Although no specific budget range is provided, contractors must include shipping and delivery costs in their bid pricing, with the City refusing to reimburse separate shipping fees. The project requires extensive coordination, including a mandatory site visit with PRT's Facility Services Manager, submission of a baseline project schedule subject to a 45-day review process, and compliance with comprehensive safety and operational protocols.