HVAC Replacement Financing, Marple Campus

Delaware County Community College is requesting sealed proposals for tax-exempt equipment lease-purchase financing to fund HVAC replacement at its Marple Campus in Media, Pennsylvania, with proposals due November 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. via PennBid, and Board award decision on November 18, 2026.

The scope is financing for full replacement of aging absorbers, chillers, and cooling towers with magnetic bearing chillers and high-efficiency boilers. The total estimated project cost is $9,000,000, with a requested loan amount of $8,500,000 covering equipment procurement, delivery, installation, engineering, and permit fees. The College seeks a 60-month loan term with fixed interest rates, fully amortizing semi-annual payments, and service commencement targeted for December 1, 2026.

Proposals must include a term sheet offering fixed interest rate options, upfront fees (with stated preference for non-profit discounts), and financial covenants designed for non-profit accounting principles. Evaluation criteria prioritize total cost of capital, covenant flexibility aligned with non-profit standards, institutional underwriting without personal guarantees, and the lender's demonstrated experience with non-profit and public-sector clients. The selected financial institution must provide an online servicing portal for automated debt service payments, multi-stage disbursement schedules tied to installation milestones, and a dedicated relationship manager with non-profit lending experience.

Delaware County Community College is tax-exempt as an instrumentality of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Bidders may not withdraw proposals within 60 days following opening. The College reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Questions are due November 4, 2026. Submissions are electronic via PennBid at https://pennbid.bonfirehub.com.