High School Auditorium Lighting Replacement

The Caesar Rodney School District in Kent County, Delaware, is seeking a Theatrical Equipment Contractor (TEC) for a comprehensive high school auditorium lighting replacement project. The procurement involves replacing and upgrading theatrical lighting systems, including 18 Vari-Lite Acclaim PLE RGBL Profile Spotlights, 9 Vari-Lite Acclaim LED RGBL Zoomspots, 65 Vari-Lite Acclaim LED RGBL Fresnel Wash Lights, 4 Vari-Lite VL2600 Profile automated spotlights, and 2 Canto Astro 6500 followspots. The project requires an ETCP Recognized Employer with at least 10 years of experience who must employ certified entertainment electricians and riggers. Key deliverables include installing new LED retrofits, replacing an ETC Ion lighting control console, maintaining the existing front-of-house catwalk, and upgrading four electric battens with new power/data distribution equipment. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for January 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Caesar Rodney High School, and sealed bids are due by 2:00 PM on February 18, 2025, at 7 Front Street, Wyoming, DE. The selected contractor must provide a three-year warranty on materials and workmanship, with 24-hour service hotline support and a complete system inspection 12 months after project completion.

The procurement promotes participation from Minority, Disadvantaged, Women-Owned, and Veteran-Owned Business Enterprises, though specific set-aside percentages are not detailed. Bidders must submit a bid security equal to 10% of the total bid amount, and the successful contractor will be required to provide performance and payment bonds for 100% of the contract price. The bonds must remain in effect for two years after the Certificate of Final Payment. Contractors and subcontractors must comply with prevailing wage requirements and provide craft training for journeyman and apprentice levels if the project meets specific employment thresholds. While no specific budget range is mentioned in the documents, the comprehensive technical specifications and equipment list suggest a significant investment in theatrical lighting infrastructure. The project will be awarded within 30 days of bid opening, with the school district reserving the right to reject any or all bids and waive informalities. Potential bidders should note that obtaining official drawing plans is mandatory for bid submission, and these documents are available for a limited two-week period.