NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is seeking a prime contractor for elevator upgrades at the Museum of Natural Sciences in Whiteville. The project involves comprehensive modernization of three passenger elevators, each with a 2,500-pound capacity and serving ten landings at a speed of 300 feet per minute. Key deliverables include full replacement of elevator controllers, motors, safety systems, cab interiors, and electrical infrastructure to meet current safety codes and accessibility standards. The solicitation requires a single prime contract with a total project duration of 240 consecutive calendar days from the Notice to Proceed. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for April 3, 2025, at 11:00 am, and sealed bids will be received until 3:00 pm on May 15, 2025, at the Museum of Natural Sciences. Evaluation criteria will likely include technical capability, proposed modernization approach, and compliance with project specifications. Liquidated damages are set at $200 per day for project delays, emphasizing the importance of timely completion.

The contract includes a minority business participation goal of 10%, requiring bidders to submit detailed documentation about their plans to engage minority-owned businesses. Financial requirements include a 5% bid bond or cash deposit, with performance and payment bonds covering 100% of the contract price. Payments will be processed monthly with 95% reimbursement until final project completion. Bidders must provide comprehensive maintenance and a full year of warranty coverage after system acceptance. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the elevator upgrades suggests a significant capital investment. The project is restricted to contractors with demonstrated experience in elevator modernization, specialized technical capabilities, and the ability to meet minority business participation requirements. No incumbent vendors are mentioned in the documentation, indicating this is likely a new procurement for upgraded elevator infrastructure at the museum.