Deland Courthouse CEP Upgrades and Efficiency Improvements

Volusia County is seeking bids for the DeLand Courthouse Chiller Energy Plant (CEP) Upgrades and Efficiency Improvements project, located at 101 N. Alabama Avenue in DeLand, Florida. The procurement is a public works project involving the optimization and comprehensive replacement of the existing chiller plant infrastructure, specifically targeting two 500-ton water-cooled chillers, primary and secondary chilled water pumps, and associated mechanical, electrical, and control system components. The project aims to enhance system efficiency, reliability, and continuous cooling capacity for the courthouse while minimizing operational disruptions. Bidders must submit comprehensive documentation including proof of Florida contractor licensing, insurance, bid bonds valued at 5% of the total bid price, and demonstrate experience with at least three completed projects for entities other than Volusia County. The solicitation requires electronic bid submission through the County's eProcurement Portal by February 19, 2026, at 3:01 pm, with a non-mandatory pre-bid meeting scheduled for January 22, 2026, at 10:30 am at the courthouse loading dock. Question submissions are due by February 5, 2026, at 11:59 pm, and bids will be publicly opened via Microsoft Teams on the submission deadline. The County will evaluate bids based on conformance to requirements, bidder capability, subcontractor qualifications, proportional work performed, previous contract performance, and maintenance capabilities.

The procurement includes local business preference provisions, offering a 3% preference for prime contractors with a permanent location in specific Central Florida counties for at least six months, or a 2% preference if 51% or more of subcontracted work is performed by local businesses, with a maximum combined preference of 5%. Contractors must hold appropriate state certifications, including a State Certified Electrical Contractor (Type EC License) with minimum five years of relevant experience. The project estimated construction cost is $1,750,000.00, with a total contract time of 180 days. Existing infrastructure includes an Alerton Controls Building Energy Management System, which the new systems must integrate with seamlessly. Insurance requirements are comprehensive, mandating Workers Compensation, Commercial General Liability, Auto Liability, and Excess Liability coverage with specific limits and additional insured provisions. The contractor must provide a Payment and Performance Bond, and all work must comply with 2020 Florida Building Code, 2017 National Electrical Code, and various industry standards. The project involves significant testing, commissioning, and training requirements, including hydrostatic pressure testing, electrical system testing, and mandatory personnel training on new equipment.