Evaporative Cooling and Ventilation System

McHenry County College is requesting bids for furnishing and installing a new evaporative cooling and ventilation system in Bay 1 of its greenhouse facility, with bids due October 20, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. CST. The College has established a 30% Business Enterprise Program (BEP) participation aspirational goal for minorities, females, and persons with disabilities.

The scope encompasses removal of eight existing Dayton evaporative coolers and associated components; replacement of damaged or deteriorated greenhouse panels; sealing of gaps and openings; and installation of one American Coolair closed-top evaporative cooling system, one motorized rigid inlet vent, two AL-36K aluminum exhaust fans, one Wadsworth vent motor with rack-and-pinion operating system, and all associated components. Bids must break out costs separately for three phases: design and field verification, removal of existing equipment and greenhouse repairs, and installation of new equipment, plus miscellaneous expenses including training, installation, setup, delivery, shipping, handling, warranty, and repair service.

Bidders must demonstrate five years of previous experience. For projects exceeding $50,000, contractors must procure performance and surety bonds. Insurance requirements include workers' compensation, commercial general liability of $1 million per occurrence, commercial automobile liability of $1 million, and umbrella liability of $5 million. Project completion is required before June 2027. Following installation and startup, the contractor must provide 30 days of post-installation support at no additional cost, with warranty service coordination continuing throughout applicable manufacturer warranty periods.

Bids must be submitted in sealed opaque envelopes via U.S. Mail or in-person delivery to the Business Office, Room A246; electronic submissions are not acceptable. Bids are valid for 60 to 120 days. The College is exempt from sales tax and vendors must absorb applicable taxes. The board of trustees recommendation is scheduled for October 22, 2026, with award notification by October 30, 2026. Net 30 payment terms apply, with invoices due within 30 days of invoice date.