ESB 2026 I-5: Exit 135 - Exit 140 Selective Dead Tree Removal Project

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is requesting competitive quotes for selective dead tree removal along Interstate 5 between Exit 135 and Exit 140 in Douglas County, with quotes due July 8, 2026. This is an Emerging Small Business (ESB) set-aside; the contractor must hold ESB certification per Oregon guidelines and perform at least 51 percent of labor using its own workforce.

The scope encompasses furnishing material, equipment, labor, and incidentals to cut and remove approximately 78 dead or visibly dying trees and other vegetation from ODOT right-of-way. Approximately 72 trees require complete removal; 6 require limb bucking on-site only. All materials must be removed and chipped on-site as directed. Work is located between mileposts and ramp locations specified in project figures and a comprehensive tree removal list. The contractor must submit compost material documentation within 30 calendar days of award and notify the Oregon Department of Forestry 21 calendar days prior to work start if merchantable timber will be utilized. Work zone traffic control (rolling slowdown methods for periods not exceeding 20 minutes) will be performed by ODOT forces Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; the contractor must schedule and coordinate traffic control a minimum of 28 days prior to beginning work. Work may not commence prior to September 1, 2026, with a completion deadline of November 20, 2026. Contract term extends through December 20, 2026, or upon completion and full payment, whichever occurs sooner.

The contract is lump-sum with two line items (Mobilization and Selective Dead Tree Removal); all expenses including travel and equipment are fixed-price and non-reimbursable. The contractor must obtain Commercial General Liability insurance ($1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 annual aggregate), Commercial Automobile Liability ($1,000,000 combined single limit), and Workers' Compensation coverage as required by Oregon law. Payment follows within 30 calendar days of invoice approval, with the State retaining 5 percent of each invoice. Work is subject to 2024 Oregon Standard Specifications for Construction with specified modifications. The contractor assumes full responsibility for damages or injuries and must maintain project records for six years post-completion. Archaeological protocols requiring immediate work cessation and notification upon discovery of artifacts or human remains apply; a 100-foot buffer zone is mandatory.