DNR Blackhawk State Historic Site- Trail Rehab

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking a contractor to perform trail rehabilitation at Blackhawk State Historic Site in Rock Island County through Solicitation 26-422DNR-DIREC-B-50016. The project requires replacing an existing overlook structure and trail bridge, with comprehensive trail rehabilitation due to erosion. Specific deliverables include constructing a 100-foot boardwalk, a 25-foot pedestrian bridge, an 11-foot by 12.5-foot outlook structure, and associated railings. Key project activities involve removing existing structures and concrete, installing new posts, decking, and railings, pouring concrete footings, and landscaping grading. Vendors must possess three years of commercial carpentry experience and be prequalified with either the Capital Development Board or Illinois Department of Transportation prior to bid opening. The bid is due on November 27, 2025, with bids remaining firm for 90 days following opening. The contract will commence upon execution and conclude on June 30, 2026, with the state evaluating bids based on responsibility, responsiveness, and price.

The procurement includes a 7% Business Enterprise Program (BEP) goal, requiring vendors to complete a utilization plan demonstrating good faith efforts to include minority, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses. Certified firms must be registered in the State of Illinois and meet specific National Institute for Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) code requirements. The state has an aspirational goal of awarding 30% of contract dollars to BEP-certified businesses and 3% to veteran-owned businesses. While no specific incumbent vendor is identified, the project will require integration with existing trail infrastructure at Blackhawk State Historic Site. Contractors must maintain general commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, and ensure at least 51% of work is completed by the prime contractor. Performance and labor bonds may be required if the project exceeds $50,000, though the exact contract value was not explicitly stated in the procurement documents.