Cooling Towers

Appalachian State University is requesting sealed bids on two new cooling tower units for delivery and installation at its Hickory, North Carolina facility under IFB55-072026, with bids due August 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET.

All-inclusive pricing must cover delivery, installation, and all associated costs, with FOB Destination to the specified location within a defined number of calendar days after purchase order receipt. Vendors must demonstrate manufacturer authorization to resell the equipment and provide at least three customer references. A minimum 12-month warranty or the manufacturer's warranty, whichever is longer, is required. Optional maintenance coverage is available at specified hourly rates and frequency levels.

Evaluation criteria include quality of product, warranty offered, total cost to the State, reputation of product and company, and delivery promptness. HUB (historically underutilized business) participation information is required. Financial stability certification is mandatory. Vendors must comply with North Carolina E-Verify requirements, fair employment standards, COVID-19 vaccination and testing policies where applicable, and federal lobbying restrictions if any federal funding is involved.

Written questions are due July 27, 2026, with State responses provided July 28. Contract award is anticipated August 10, 2026. Public bid opening occurs at the time of bid due date and time. No mandatory site visit or pre-bid conference is specified. Contract term details are subject to final negotiation, with template language indicating potential for initial terms and renewal options at State discretion. No e-procurement fee applies.