Design-Build Services for Tables of Connection (Picnic Tables with Solar Power and Battery Storage)

The City of Orlando is soliciting design-build services for RFP24-0097, a project focused on creating "Tables of Connection" - innovative solar-powered picnic tables to be installed in 12 city-owned parks. The procurement seeks a Florida-licensed Design-Builder with architectural or engineering professionals to design and construct up to 12 picnic tables featuring solar panels, battery storage, device charging capabilities, and potential future Wi-Fi integration. The tables must meet specific technical requirements, including ADA accessibility, a minimum wind speed rating of 150 MPH, and the ability to simultaneously charge at least four devices. Proposals are due electronically by 2:00 p.m. local time on January 18, 2024, through the city's e-Procurement Portal, with a non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting held on December 7, 2023, at the Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center. Respondents must demonstrate experience with at least five photovoltaic projects and provide system monitoring and maintenance for 12 months following system energization. The project aims to bridge the digital divide in low-internet-access neighborhoods and support the city's resiliency goals by providing shade and backup power sources.

The solicitation includes specific set-aside goals for disadvantaged businesses, requiring 18% Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), 6% Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), and additional participation for Veteran Business Enterprises. The contract will have a two-year total duration, with the city anticipating procurement of the tables during this period. Contractors must comply with Davis-Bacon wage requirements, with prevailing wages starting at $16.20 per hour for covered workers and additional provisions for paid sick leave. The project includes a pre-construction design phase with potential for a full design-build construction contract, and respondents must provide comprehensive documentation including design reports and construction documents. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the solicitation suggests a comprehensive approach to project development with potential for multiple table installations across various city parks. The project emphasizes local economic participation, technical innovation, and community infrastructure improvement through sustainable technology deployment.