Electric Power Line Right-Of-Way Tree Trimming and Clearance

The City of Salem, Virginia is requesting sealed bids for electric power line right-of-way tree trimming and clearance services for its Electric Department under ITB #2027-003, with bids due September 3, 2026 and questions due August 19, 2026.

The scope covers routine clearance cutting, hazardous tree removal, emergency storm response, brush and vegetation clearing, and chemical weed control across approximately 159 line-miles of 69kV transmission and 12kV distribution pole line serving approximately 15 square miles. The contractor must maintain a dedicated crew of at least three personnel with at least two certified Line Clearance Specialists/Arborists and provide equipment including a 60'–70' bucket truck, industrial chipper, and chain saws. All personnel must comply with ANSI A300 and Z133 standards and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 requirements for line-clearance tree trimming.

The initial contract period runs October 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with three optional one-year renewal periods thereafter. Pricing shall remain firm for the initial contract period, with renewal rate increases capped at three percent annually and subject to City approval.

Bidders must submit hourly billing rates for labor categories (foreperson, line clearance specialist/trimmer, ground person, flagman), equipment (bucket truck, industrial chipper, chain saw, pick-up truck), and materials (herbicide/chemicals). Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the lowest overall total price. The City reserves the right to award to a single bidder or multiple bidders, cancel the ITB, reject any or all bids, and terminate the contract without cause upon thirty days' written notice. The contractor must carry minimum commercial general liability insurance of $3,000,000 and maintain workers' compensation and automobile liability coverage. Public bid opening follows sealed bid submission at 3:05 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers.