DEEP Standardized Cold Storage Building at Thomaston Garage

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is requesting bids for the design and construction of a two-story cold storage building at Thomaston Garage, 422 Watertown Road, Thomaston, Connecticut, with bids due July 31, 2026.

The scope encompasses a standardized cold storage facility for general storage usage by DEEP's Western District and Environmental Conservation Law Enforcement divisions. The project includes site demolition, tree removal and concrete barrier relocation, stormwater management with detention and water quality basins, sanitary and storm drainage systems with lift stations and oil/water separators, utility infrastructure modifications including gas line relocation and electrical conduit placement, bituminous and concrete pavement, and a complete mechanical, electrical, and plumbing building systems. The comprehensive technical specifications establish requirements across concrete, masonry, metals, openings, finishes, HVAC, and electrical trades; concrete work requires American Concrete Institute certification for personnel, a Concrete Quality Control Plan with pre-placement meetings and specified testing frequencies, and compliance with ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, and Connecticut Department of Transportation standards. Cold-weather concreting plans are mandated when temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Environmental compliance is a constraint. The project is subject to a Natural Diversity Database permit determination (effective January 29, 2026 through January 29, 2028) addressing three state-listed species: the Northern long-eared bat (federally and state endangered), spotted turtle (state special concern), and wood turtle (state special concern). Tree clearing is prohibited between April 15 and October 31 unless applicants obtain a federal determination of no adverse effect or submit bat surveys demonstrating species absence. Turtle exclusionary fencing at least 20 inches tall is required during active seasons; daily morning work area searches and restricted land disturbance in overwintering habitats are mandatory.

Bidders must submit required documentation through CTsource, including bid proposals and DAS Contractor Prequalification Forms. The project number is DEPA00013203605. Design was prepared by TLB Architecture LLC, with M/E/P engineering by Innovative Engineering Services LLC, civil engineering by Nathan L. Jacobson & Associates Inc., and structural engineering by Cartier Structural Design.