Cargo Apron Reconstruction and Replacement of Runway 9-27 with a Taxiway

Pinellas County is seeking a construction contractor for a comprehensive airport infrastructure project at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport involving cargo apron reconstruction and runway replacement. The project, identified as Bid No. 23-0075-ITB-CONSTRUCTION, requires reconstructing the western portion of the existing terminal parking apron to support air carrier operations and replacing the decommissioned Runway 9-27 with a new taxiway connecting to Runway 18-36. Specific deliverables include demolishing approximately 36,300 square yards of existing asphalt pavement, installing 9,800 square yards of 16-inch concrete pavement, implementing drainage improvements, installing new pavement markings, and upgrading high-mast lighting infrastructure. Bidders must be prequalified with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in specific work classes. A mandatory pre-conference and site visit was scheduled for November 29, 2022, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time, with Step 1 bid submissions due by December 20, 2022, and Step 2 submissions due by January 5, 2023. The project requires contractors to accommodate A319/A320 commercial aircraft and potential cargo aircraft operations.

The county has established a 17% Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation goal and requires strict compliance with non-discrimination provisions, including Title VI and Title VIII civil rights legislation. Contractors must utilize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify system to verify employment eligibility and ensure Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation with equal opportunity for competition. Performance and payment bonds are required, each for 100% of the agreement amount, with specific insurance requirements including commercial general liability, business automobile liability, and excess or umbrella liability coverage. The contract duration is set for 315 consecutive calendar days, with liquidated damages ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per day depending on work phase and facility impact. The total project budget is $13,082,000, with bid documents including substantial owner's allowances totaling $1,120,000 for potential contingencies. Potential sanctions for non-compliance include payment withholding, contract termination, and potential legal consequences under federal statutes.