Lake Elkhorn East Inlet Boardwalk Replacement

Columbia Association is requesting bids on the Lake Elkhorn East Inlet Boardwalk Replacement project under IFB 27-15, with bids due October 15, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EST via PlanetBids and a pre-bid meeting scheduled for October 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. A 23% participation goal applies to Minority Business Enterprises, Women-Owned Business Enterprises, and Disabled-Owned Business Enterprises, with all MBE firms required to be certified through the Maryland Department of Transportation directory.

The scope encompasses complete removal and disposal of existing boardwalk components and approach abutments, along with installation of new boardwalk components at the Lake Elkhorn East Inlet in Columbia, Maryland. The Columbia Association furnishes pultruded fiberglass decking materials and hardware; the contractor provides all labor, supervision, equipment, and other materials. The bid structure includes two items: Bid Item #1 for demolition, removal, and boardwalk installation as a lump sum price, and Bid Item #2 as an add alternative for boardwalk approach abutments. Associated paving work and the Lake Elkhorn Boat Ramp are excluded. Qualifications require all applicable state and county licenses and a minimum of five years of experience performing similar work; bidders must submit at least three project references.

Performance runs from January 4, 2027 through April 2, 2027, with all in-stream work required to be completed by February 28, 2027 to comply with Maryland Department of the Environment Time-of-Year-Restrictions protecting the Little Patuxent River stream tributary, classified as Nontidal Stream Use Class IV Recreational Trout Waters. Construction affecting aquatic habitats is prohibited from March 1 through May 31. The Columbia Association reserves the right to adjust the start date based on contract execution and Notice to Proceed issuance.

The contractor must maintain Broad Form General Liability insurance of $2 million combined single limit, Business Automobile coverage of $1 million, workers' compensation at statutory limits, and an Umbrella policy of at least $2 million. Bid and Performance Bonds are not required. Payment terms are Net 30 days on approved invoices using AIA G702 and G703 forms, with the Columbia Association retaining up to ten percent of progress payments until substantial completion. The contractor is responsible for all permit fees and trade/specialty permits required by Howard County Code; the State of Maryland permit has been secured. Questions are due before the October 7 pre-bid meeting.