DCR 947 Natural Surface Trail Planning

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is seeking proposals for a comprehensive Natural Surface Trail Planning contract (DCR 947) to support trail development and maintenance across the state's extensive 4,000-mile natural surface trail network. The procurement seeks qualified bidders to provide services including trail planning, design, permitting, maintenance, repair, training, biological and botanical monitoring, and volunteer coordination. Bidders must demonstrate at least 5 years of relevant experience and provide two business references, with technical expertise required in sustainable trail layout, wetland/stream crossing design, Massachusetts permitting procedures, trail construction techniques, and volunteer management. The evaluation criteria will assess bidders' knowledge of DCR Trail Guidelines and Best Practices Manual, ability to use on-site and purchased materials, and experience managing youth corps and volunteer projects. The solicitation has a response deadline of February 24, 2025, with questions due by January 31, 2025. The initial contract term is three years through April 3, 2028, with a potential two-year renewal option, creating a total possible contract period of five years through April 3, 2030.

The procurement includes several diversity and small business requirements, specifically mandating a minimum 1% Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) commitment and participating in the Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP). Eligible diverse business certifications include MBE, WBE, SDVOBE, VBE, DOBE, and LGBTBE categories, with certification required through recognized state or federal programs. The estimated procurement value is $750,000, structured as a rate contract with multiple awards planned to ensure geographic coverage across Massachusetts. Contractors will be reimbursed at hourly/daily rates inclusive of overhead costs, with mileage reimbursement available for sites over 50 miles from the contractor's office at $0.45 per mile. Bidders must complete various mandatory forms including the Bidder Response Document, Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing, Supplier Diversity Program Plan, and Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization. The Commonwealth reserves the right to make multiple awards to ensure comprehensive service coverage and meet the diverse trail maintenance needs across Massachusetts' conservation landscapes.