DEM Research Vessel John H. Chafee Overhaul

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), specifically the Division of Marine Fisheries, is soliciting proposals for the comprehensive refit and overhaul of their flagship research vessel, the "John H. Chafee," a 50'x17'6" Wesmac Downeast style Trawl Vessel. The Request for Proposal (RFP25005003) seeks qualified marine repair and vessel renovation firms to conduct a complete vessel restoration. Potential vendors must submit separate technical and cost proposals electronically through the Ocean State Procures system by January 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for December 18, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the DEM Marine Fisheries Headquarters in Jamestown, RI, with a vendor Q&A period running from December 9, 2024, to January 7, 2025. The initial contract period will span approximately 18 months beginning in February 2025, with the possibility of one additional 12-month renewal based on vendor performance and funding availability. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical merit, cost, and proposed ISBE participation rates, with the state reserving the right to conduct a best and final offer process.

The procurement encourages participation from Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Disability Business Enterprises (DisBEs), with vendors able to earn up to 6 points in the evaluation process through demonstrated ISBE participation. Vendors must maintain specific insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 per occurrence in liability insurance, $100,000 in workers compensation insurance, and $1,000,000 in automobile liability insurance. To be considered, firms must register in the Ocean State Procures system and submit a completed Supplemental Bidder Attestation Form and ISBE Participation Form. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the vessel overhaul suggests a significant investment in marine restoration and repair services. All proposals must remain valid for 180 days following the opening date, and awards are contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds, with the state retaining the discretion to award based on cost alone or cancel the solicitation entirely.