Downtown Benches

The City of Santa Cruz, California, is seeking to procure twenty-six (26) metal benches for its downtown area as part of the Downtown Recovery - Phase I-IV project. The procurement is structured as an Invitation for Bids (IFB) No. PR-0036, specifically targeting the Street Furniture Australia Classic Promenade (CMR1) model with 02 Arch legs and center armrest, or an equivalent product. The benches must meet precise specifications, including dimensions of 28" width x 31" height x 58" length, horizontal aluminum batten boards with sublimated woodgrain in medium brown, and cast metal components powder-coated in RAL 5008 "Graublau" color. Key procurement dates include bid questions due by 9/13/2023 and the bid submittal deadline of 9/22/2023 at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. The objective is to implement the City's Downtown Site Furnishing Standards, which aim to reduce visual clutter and improve design cohesion, with anticipated bench delivery in late 2023 or early 2024. Qualifications will likely include the ability to provide benches that precisely match the specified technical requirements and maintain adequate stock throughout the contract term.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The City anticipates awarding a contract to a single vendor and has allocated funds from its Fiscal Year 2023 budget for this procurement. While no specific budget range is detailed, the project is part of a broader Downtown Recovery initiative. The successful bidder will be required to provide a one-year warranty and offer full credit for unused benches, with no minimum order permitted. The City reserves the right to obtain competitive quotes for contract items, suggesting flexibility in the procurement process. No information is provided about incumbent vendors or existing infrastructure requirements. The procurement appears to be a straightforward replacement and enhancement of downtown street furniture, focusing on standardizing the aesthetic and functional qualities of public seating in the Santa Cruz downtown area.