Cole Grade Road Improvement Project - Phase 1

San Diego County Department of Public Works is requesting bids for the Cole Grade Road Improvement Project – Phase 1, a multi-phase roadway and infrastructure construction project in the vicinity of Valley Center in unincorporated San Diego County, with bids due July 23, 2026. Prospective bidders must hold California Class A General Engineering Contractor's licenses and be prequalified by the County — the principal eligibility gates.

The project encompasses 1.07 miles of roadway construction, drainage improvements, bridge construction, traffic signal installation, irrigation and planting, utility work, and green street infrastructure. The scope includes demolition, clearing and grubbing, best management practices installation, signage, striping, decomposed granite path construction, fencing, gate construction, and temporary traffic control. The base bid schedule contains 190 line items; three additive alternates cover joint utility trench work, VCMWD waterline work, and SDG&E transmission electric work. The project is subject to California prevailing wage requirements and the County's Working Families Ordinance governing wage payment, skilled workforce utilization, and paid sick leave.

The estimated project cost is $27,296,590.10. Bid security of at least 10 percent of the bid amount is required in the form of cash, certified check, or bidder's bond. The successful bidder must provide performance and payment bonds each for 100 percent of the contract amount. Contractors must comply with California Air Resources Board In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets regulations and register with the Department of Industrial Relations.

A 3 percent Small-Local Business Subcontractor Participation Requirement applies unless exempt; bidders must submit a Small-Local Business Utilization Plan (PC611 form). Contractors must perform at least 50 percent of the work with their own forces. Subcontractors performing work exceeding one-half of one percent of the total bid must be designated at bid submittal. Questions are due at least 10 days prior to bid opening. Bids may not be withdrawn for 75 days after opening.