IFB Ferry Operator Services

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) No. 158779 for Ferry Operator Services to operate two state-owned ferries: the Merry Point Ferry in Lancaster County and the Sunny Bank Ferry in Northumberland County. The contract requires qualified firms to provide ferry operators to staff these ferries, which have a six-passenger limit, operating fifty-two weeks per year with some potential variations. Operators will be responsible for executing pre-operating checklists, following operational procedures, maintaining safety and security protocols, and managing daily ferry crossings over the Corrotoman and Little Wicomico Rivers. Bidders must submit their proposals electronically through the Commonwealth's eVA procurement system by April 12, 2024, at 10:00 AM EST, with a virtual public bid opening scheduled for 10:30 AM EST the same day. An optional pre-bid conference will be held virtually on April 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder on a grand total basis, with an initial one-year term and four potential one-year renewal options.

The solicitation includes provisions for small business participation, with bidders potentially required to submit a Small Business Subcontracting Plan if not already certified as a small business. Sandy Point Marine Services LLC is noted as a Micro SWAM (Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned) type business, indicating opportunities for diverse business participation. The contract includes prevailing wage rate requirements and mandates compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. VDOT will provide necessary equipment, materials, and supplies for ferry operations. Based on the bid tabulation documents, the total contract value ranges between $674,153.70 and $969,240.00, with unit pricing between $50.37 and $94.50 per hour. The contract will be subject to renewal based on the Consumer Price Index, and an additional operator may be required during summer months at the Merry Point Ferry. Abacus Corporation was ultimately awarded the contract for the period from May 13, 2024, to May 12, 2025.