Discovery Science Center- Stair Fabrication and Installation

The City of Ocala is requesting bids on stair fabrication and installation services at the Discovery Science Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave, Ocala, Florida under ITB 10072600000144, with bids due November 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EST and a mandatory pre-bid meeting at the site on October 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. A local-vendor preference applies to Marion County vendors, allowing them to contract at 1% less than the low bid amount if they meet specified criteria.

The scope requires removal of the existing exterior stair assembly and fabrication and installation of a new hot-dip galvanized steel stair system, including landings, guardrails, handrails, and all anchorage. The contractor must perform a minimum of 30% of the work with its own forces and is responsible for obtaining all required permits—building and construction—at no additional cost to the City. Bidders must hold a valid Florida General Contractor's License and demonstrate five years of experience in fabricating or installing exterior metal stair systems.

The contract period allows 30 calendar days from Notice to Proceed for Substantial Completion and an additional 14 calendar days for Final Completion. Liquidated damages are $100.00 per calendar day for failure to meet Substantial Completion and $100.00 per day thereafter until Final Completion. The maximum acceptable lead time on materials is two weeks; the City will issue Notice to Proceed following that window. Bidding format is lump-sum for a single line item. Questions are due November 2, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EST. All bids must be submitted electronically through www.bidocala.com or www.prorfx.com. Bidders must comply with Florida E-Verify requirements, drug-free workplace standards, and employment eligibility verification for all newly hired employees. Attendance at the mandatory pre-bid meeting is required; vendors arriving after 10:00 a.m. face disqualification.