Central Energy Plant Construction

The Melbourne Airport Authority is requesting bids for Central Energy Plant construction at Melbourne Orlando International Airport in Melbourne, Florida, with sealed bids due September 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT and a mandatory pre-bid conference and site visit on August 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM EDT.

This is a lump sum contract requiring the successful bidder to replace mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and HVAC infrastructure within the original 1989 terminal by constructing an enclosed Central Energy Plant with new water-cooled chillers, cooling towers mounted on roof, main electrical distribution panel, and pre-purchased generator installation. Work includes demolition of existing structures, structural steel installation, electrical and mechanical upgrades, fire protection modifications, and full compliance with Florida Building Code, Florida Mechanical Code, National Electric Code, and standards from ASHRAE, NFPA, ACI, and AISC. The bidder must maintain traffic control, coordinate with other contractors, and provide maximum operational support while the airport remains active; all subcontractors performing licensed work must be Division II contractors licensed in Brevard County. Construction must be managed using Critical Path Method scheduling with mandatory milestones for mobilization, dry-in, electrical energization, HVAC start-up, and substantial completion within 52 calendar weeks from Notice to Proceed anticipated by November 6, 2026.

The budgeted project cost is $4.2 million. A bid bond or certified check equal to 5% of the bid amount must accompany each proposal; the successful bidder must provide a public construction bond equal to 100% of the contract amount prior to execution. The project is federally funded through the FAA and FDOT and is subject to Davis-Bacon wage rates. Liquidated damages are assessed at $1,000 per calendar day for non-compliance with schedule for the first 30 days after substantial completion, increasing to $1,500 per day thereafter. Bidders must be Florida-licensed general contractors. Additional site visits are available Tuesdays and Thursdays between August 20 and September 3 with 24–48 hours advance notice and government-issued identification. Written questions are due September 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT, with responses distributed via addendum. Bids remain valid for 60 calendar days after bid opening.