Gopher Tortoise Relocation: Longwood Dr. Blvd. Utility Easement, next to Parcel ID 001630001

Sarasota County is seeking quotes from Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agents to perform a specialized environmental relocation project for a utility construction site located on Longwood Dr. Boulevard near Parcel ID 001630001. The procurement involves comprehensive services including surveying and marking gopher tortoise burrows, obtaining Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) relocation permits, capturing and temporarily excluding tortoises from the construction area, conducting monthly site monitoring, and completing detailed after-action reporting. Qualified bidders must possess an active Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent certification from FWC and provide two references demonstrating similar past project experience. The bid was released on April 3, 2025, with a non-mandatory pre-bid meeting scheduled for April 7, 2025, at 9:00 am, and a bid submission deadline of April 10, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Evaluation criteria will focus on responsiveness, responsibility, and the lowest total bid price, with the county reserving the right to purchase additional quantities at quoted unit prices for up to 30 days following the award.

The procurement does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions on participating organizations beyond the requirement of being an FWC-authorized gopher tortoise agent. The total project cost is capped at $50,000, with potential for extended pricing up to one year if the vendor agrees. The county will restore habitats within the project corridor to provide suitable tortoise habitat following utility project completion. Contractors must carry specific insurance coverages, including Commercial General Liability ($500,000 or $1,000,000 per occurrence), Business Auto Liability ($1,000,000 combined single limit), and Workers Compensation with statutory limits. The project timeline requires work to begin within 7 days of receiving a County Purchase Order and be completed within 30 days, with the county retaining schedule modification rights. Contractors will be paid upon completion of work and must warrant materials for one year from the county's acceptance date.