DNR 5 year haul-out dry dock maintenance S/V Steelhead

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking proposals for a comprehensive 5-year haul-out dry dock maintenance project for the S/V Steelhead, a 65-foot steel-hulled fisheries research vessel based in Charlevoix. The procurement involves extensive vessel maintenance and repair services, including hull inspection, shaft and rudder work, sandblasting, painting, welding repairs, bilge pump replacement, transducer installation, and HVAC system replacement. The RFP requires vendors to provide detailed pricing for 24 different service components, with proposals evaluated based on technical capability and lowest price. Mandatory proposal documents must be completed, including vendor questions, statement of work, and price quote forms. The solicitation was issued on March 9, 2021, with proposals due on March 29, 2021, at 3:00 PM EST. Potential bidders are allowed to view the vessel prior to submission by contacting Dave Clapp at the Charlevoix facility. The anticipated contract start date is April 15, 2021, with project completion required by September 30, 2021.

The contract includes specific requirements for contractor qualifications, with a focus on responsive and responsible bidders. While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, vendors must maintain substantial insurance coverage, including $1 million in commercial general liability and $5 million in umbrella coverage. The vessel itself is a 1968-launched research vessel powered by twin V-6 380 hp Cummins diesels, capable of a maximum speed of 10.5 knots. Liquidated damages provisions are included, with potential penalties of $1,000 plus $500 per day for late or improper completion. The pricing mechanism allows vendors to submit itemized costs through the SIGMA VSS system, with the state reserving the right to use the lowest price in case of discrepancies. Although a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the maintenance work suggests a potentially significant contract value. Vendors are required to independently develop pricing without consultation with other contractors, ensuring competitive and fair proposal submissions.