IFB 40622 - Burrell Dam Manatee Screens Fabrication and Installation

The St. Johns River Water Management District is seeking bids for IFB 40622, a project involving the fabrication and installation of six manatee screens upstream of the Burrell Dam water control structure in Polk County, Florida. Licensed Florida firms are invited to submit proposals for this public works project, which requires detailed fabrication and precise installation of screens into existing slots. Respondents must demonstrate significant prior experience, specifically having completed at least three similar projects within the last three years, with each project valued at a minimum of $50,000. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for November 6, 2024, at the Burrell Lock, with electronic bid submissions due by 2:00 p.m. on November 21, 2024. The evaluation criteria will focus on selecting the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with careful consideration of the firm's qualifications, including documented experience with herbicide application projects and client references. The project is subject to the American Iron and Steel (AIS) requirement and must adhere to specific technical specifications outlined in the invitation documents. The contract is expected to be completed by March 31, 2025, with an initial estimated budget period running through January 31, 2025.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, and the solicitation is open to all qualified licensed contractors in Florida. The estimated budget for the entire project is $62,406.57, with the District reserving the right to adjust the scope, increase or decrease work components, or reject all bids if cost estimates exceed budgetary constraints. Potential respondents must provide comprehensive documentation demonstrating technical capability, including proof of dive operation qualifications meeting OSHA commercial dive standards, as underwater installation and verification are mandatory components of the project. The District will require detailed dive logs and verification that no gaps exist in screen installation, with no alternatives to physical diving inspections permitted. Contractors must also confirm they do not use coerced labor and will comply with all project-specific requirements, including specific herbicide use protocols and access limitations. The project presents an opportunity for firms with specialized marine construction and environmental modification capabilities, particularly those experienced in water management infrastructure projects.