Machine Connections Yarn Kimbrell Fiber Innovation Center

The state of North Carolina, specifically Gaston College, is seeking qualified contractors for the Machine Connections Yarn Kimbrell Fiber Innovation Center project, which requires comprehensive electrical and plumbing infrastructure installation for specialized yarn equipment. The primary scope of work involves providing and installing three compressed air drops, three electrical circuits, a new transformer and service panel, with contractors responsible for daily cleanup, damage repair, and post-installation training for facilities maintenance personnel. A mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for January 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with sealed bids due by 2:00 PM on January 28, 2026, to be submitted to Stephen Sharp at Gaston College's Harney Hall Building. Bidders must possess appropriate North Carolina state licensing in their respective trades, with evaluation based on the lowest responsive bid meeting written specifications. Required bid submissions include two signed original proposals, state licensures, material lists, construction schedules, warranties, project histories, references, insurance certificates, and a comprehensive pricing breakdown. The project must be completed by March 31, 2025, with work scheduled around student activities, preferably during weekends and evenings.

Contractor qualifications include maintaining comprehensive general liability insurance with minimum limits of $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $100,000 per property damage occurrence, along with workers' compensation insurance as required by law. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract amount, executed by a North Carolina-authorized surety company, are mandatory. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are mentioned, contractors must provide a detailed project history including three references and a list of public projects completed in the last three years. The contract includes a twelve-month guarantee on materials and workmanship, with potential for manufacturer warranties to extend beyond this period. Final payment will be processed thirty days after project completion and acceptance, with a retainage policy not exceeding 5% and ceasing after 50% completion if work is satisfactory. Though a specific budget range is not disclosed, the comprehensive requirements and infrastructure work suggest a substantial investment in upgrading the Fiber Innovation Center's technological capabilities.