HO1245187 - IS 70 at US 29 Southbound Ramp Geometric Improvements

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is soliciting electronic bids for contract HO1245187, a highway infrastructure project located in Howard County targeting improvements to the I-70 eastbound lane at the US 29 southbound Ramp. The procurement involves a comprehensive roadway enhancement spanning 0.24 miles, with specific deliverables including widening I-70 to construct an 835-linear-foot deceleration lane with shoulder, installing a new overhead guide sign, extending a 36-inch reinforced concrete pipe culvert, and implementing traffic barrier installations. Key project objectives encompass stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, traffic maintenance utilizing automated speed enforcement devices, pavement marking and signing, and slope stabilization. The electronic bid submission deadline is set for May 22, 2025, at 12 Noon Eastern time, to be completed through the Bid Express website (https://www.bidx.com/maryland/main). Bidders are required to electronically register, obtain a digital ID, and maintain a paid Bid Express subscription to participate in the procurement process.

The contract emphasizes opportunities for minority and disadvantaged business enterprises, demonstrating a commitment to equal opportunity in line with Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Bid security requirements mandate a 5% bid bond for proposals exceeding $100,000, with payment and performance bonds necessary for contracts above that threshold. While no specific pre-bid conference is planned, the project is federally funded and classified under category E, suggesting a specialized engineering infrastructure designation. The cost of project plans is listed at $0.00, potentially reducing initial barriers to entry for interested contractors. Though a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the roadway improvements and the federal funding suggest a substantial project budget. Potential bidders should note the project's focus on geometric improvements, infrastructure enhancement, and traffic safety, which may require specialized civil engineering and transportation infrastructure expertise.