Intent to Single Source-Manhole Risers

The City of Tampa in Hillsborough County, Florida, is pursuing a single-source procurement for Pivoted Turnbuckle Steel Expandable Manhole Risers from American Highway Products Ltd. The procurement involves specialized manhole infrastructure components designed with a unique turnbuckle linkage that enables full circumferential engagement and can accommodate worn or out-of-round manhole frames. Specific product requirements include the ability to manufacture risers with diameters of 13 inches and greater, with heights adjustable in incremental increments, and the capability to ship orders within one week of receipt. The procurement is justified by the need for equipment continuity, compatibility with existing infrastructure, and the vendor's ability to provide specialized replacement parts. The sole-source certificate indicates an estimated annual expenditure of $50,000, to be funded through various Mobility Capital and Operating Accounts. The procurement documents were posted on December 2, 2024, with a due date of December 5, 2024, and the pricing terms are valid from November 13, 2024, through November 12, 2025.

The procurement appears to have no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. American Highway Products Ltd. emphasizes its compliance with the Made in America Act, manufacturing the risers in Ohio using domestic steel, which could be a favorable qualification. The company has been specializing in manhole risers since 1978 and currently supplies products to all 50 states and Canada. The product specifications highlight technical advantages, such as the ability to apply 60 pounds of force with a screwdriver to generate 5,600 pounds of force around the full circumference, creating an installation similar to a pressed-in bearing. Pricing for the manhole risers ranges from $109.00 to $121.50 depending on rise height, with free shipping offered on orders of 50 manhole risers or more. The procurement involves four specific product configurations with 23 1/2" diameters and rise heights ranging from 3/4" to 2", featuring a uniform 1 3/8" lid.