Inspection of Overhead Sign Structures

The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is requesting proposals for professional engineering services to conduct comprehensive inspection of roadway overhead sign structures, with proposals due November 5, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. through the Bonfire Procurement Portal under RFP 2218F. The contract is a single Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreement with a maximum value of $14 million over a three-year term with two possible one-year extensions, funded through combined state and federal sources and structured as cost plus fixed fee.

The scope encompasses hands-on and visual inspection of approximately 678 sign structures, 236 high mast lighting and camera structures, and 3,092 traffic signal supports, supplemented by nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques and digital photography. The consultant will perform inventory inspections of newly installed structures, conduct scheduled inspections of existing structures, and perform minor maintenance activities such as bolt tightening and sign clip replacement during lane closures. Work requires specialized access equipment including bucket trucks, truck-mounted attenuators, lift vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and climbing equipment, with traffic control configured per Delaware MUTCD standards. All findings must be documented and entered into DelDOT's database system.

Key personnel qualifications include a Team Leader who must be a registered Professional Engineer meeting DelDOT Bridge Inspection Manual standards and a team member certified as a welding inspector with ASNT Level II Ultrasonic qualifications for NDT work. The prime consultant must maintain comprehensive insurance including Worker's Compensation, Commercial General Liability ($1 million/$3 million), Errors and Omissions ($1 million/$3 million), and Automotive Liability ($1 million combined single limit). Proposals must include GSA SF330 architect-engineer qualifications documentation with specified modifications, proof of DelDOT consultant registration, and required certification forms. The selection process is single-phase with potential discussions with up to three highly qualified firms before final ranking and negotiation. No DBE participation goal is currently established due to a temporary suspension of DBE certification by the U.S. Department of Transportation, though DelDOT reserves the right to reinstate or establish goals through formal amendment.