DNR Ferne Clyffe State Park - Repair Round Bluff Hiking Trail

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is soliciting bids for repair work on the Round Bluff Hiking Trail at Ferne Clyffe State Park under IFB 27-422DNR-REALT-B-53786, with bids due October 6, 2026. The estimated project value exceeds $50,000. This is a prevailing-wage public works project subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act; vendors must submit certified payroll records monthly to the Illinois Department of Labor.

The scope requires installation of ten water bar and step assemblies constructed from 6x6x8-foot rough sawn treated wood timbers secured with number 6 rebar anchors and exterior coated wood screws, each with a minimum 9-inch tread width and water diversion features. Work locations run between stations 44+08 and 51+50 on the trail; IDNR will field-stake all locations prior to construction. An optional bid line item covers installation of fifteen additional water bar/step assemblies at field-designated locations. All work must follow specifications in the Project Manual and attached construction plans; contractors must field-verify existing dimensions and conditions and coordinate with IDNR ownership. The work site is extremely rugged and narrow with vehicle access prohibited; materials and equipment may only stage in designated areas with approximately two parking spaces available at the trailhead.

Vendors must demonstrate five years of experience in commercial general construction or transportation and document at least three similar projects. A performance and payment bond is required for contracts exceeding $150,000. General commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability of $1,000,000, and worker's compensation coverage are mandated. A minimum of 51 percent of work must be performed by the prime contractor.

The contract term runs through March 30, 2027. Bids must be submitted electronically through BidBuy and remain firm for 90 days following opening. Bidders must submit a completed Vendor Disclosure form or IPG Active Registered Vendor Disclosure, an Offer to the State of Illinois, and applicable Business Enterprise Program or Veterans Small Business Program Utilization Plans. Written questions are due no later than 7 days from bid opening. The contract may be partially or wholly funded with federal funds, triggering Buy American Act requirements for domestic materials and compliance with IDOT Standard Specifications. A Minority Contractor Opportunity Initiative fee of $15 applies to any awarded contract valued at $1,000 or more. Preference is given to products manufactured in the United States unless cost, quality, or availability considerations apply.