East Boulder Ditch Fish Passage Construction Project

The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) Department is seeking a qualified contractor to construct a fish passage project on the East Boulder Ditch (EBD) along South Boulder Creek in Boulder County, Colorado. The project aims to improve fish passage, maintain water delivery rights, and enhance the ecological functioning of the stream and riparian area. Specific deliverables include installing a 470-foot-long 40"x31" aluminized steel pipe arch, constructing a new headgate structure, creating a diversion structure with removable flashboards, and implementing stream restoration elements such as regrading, constructed riffles, rock vanes, and bank protection. Contractors must demonstrate experience in fish passage projects, irrigation infrastructure improvements, and stream enhancement work. The solicitation requires electronic bid submissions through BidNet Direct, with a mandatory pre-bid meeting scheduled for February 13, 2024, at 1:00 PM. Bids are due electronically by 2:00 PM MST on February 26, 2024, with contractor selection anticipated by March 5, 2024, and a Notice to Proceed expected on March 11, 2024.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but the City of Boulder does give preference to labor, materials, and services produced in Colorado. Bidders are required to submit a 5% bid bond, completed qualification forms, and a 1-2 page resume demonstrating relevant experience. The project site involves sensitive habitat with federally threatened species and regulated wetlands, requiring contractors to limit disturbance to a small corridor between South Boulder Creek and existing multi-use trails. While no specific budget is explicitly stated, the comprehensive bid form suggests a complex environmental and infrastructure improvement initiative. The project includes multiple critical constraints, such as working within water rights periods (April 1-October 31) and adhering to strict New Zealand Mudsnail decontamination protocols to prevent invasive species spread. The City has already obtained several permits, including a USACOE Section 404 permit and USFWS Section 7 clearance, with the selected contractor responsible for additional required permits.