Life Jacket Wear Rate Study

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission's Boating Program is seeking consultant services to conduct a comprehensive life jacket wear rate study across various counties and cities in Washington State. The primary objectives include developing and implementing an observation plan to evaluate current life jacket usage among recreational boaters, analyzing the results, and preparing a detailed report comparing findings with previous studies from 2010 and 2014. Key deliverables include a comprehensive observation methodology, data collection across approximately 34 observation sites, and a final report analyzing trends in life jacket usage. The study will also include a parallel component examining the impact of life jacket loaner stations on wear rates. Evaluation criteria will be based on a 100-point scale, with 30 points for bid price, 40 points for experience and expertise, and 30 points for approach/work plan and project schedule. The pre-solicitation conference was held on November 22, with questions due by December 2 at 1 pm, and proposal submissions required by December 17 at 1 pm. The anticipated contract award date is January 28, with the contract term extending through December 31, 2025.

The procurement has specific set-aside provisions prioritizing small businesses and veteran-owned businesses certified in Washington State. Firms must be certified in WEBS/WDVA to receive priority consideration, with the highest-scored priority response being selected as the Apparent Successful Bidder. The total contract value is not to exceed $50,000, and the successful bidder must demonstrate experience in conducting recreational boating observational studies, data analysis, and report generation. JSI Research & Training Institute of Boston, MA was identified as the Apparent Successful Bidder, receiving a perfect score of 100 points in the evaluation process. The contractor will be responsible for providing all necessary equipment, including binoculars, observation checklists, and questionnaires, and managing observer recruitment and oversight. Potential sources of observers may include direct contractor staff or external networks such as the Coast Guard Auxiliary. The study will require comprehensive documentation, including detailed data collection on life jacket loaner boards, photographic evidence, and in-depth analysis of boating safety practices across Washington State.