New Boardwalk Construction Services - Myakka State Forest

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is seeking competitive bids for the construction of an approximately 610-foot composite boardwalk within Myakka State Forest in Englewood, Florida. The base bid requires the construction of an ADA-compliant boardwalk with composite decking, treated wood piles, approximately 142 treated wood piles (10-inch diameter), 4,000 square feet of composite decking, ADA-compliant benches, observation decks, guardrails, interpretive signage, and erosion control measures. An additive alternate bid option includes constructing an ADA-compliant parking area with a 40-linear-foot culvert, two 12-foot-wide parking spaces, sidewalks, and appropriate striping. Bidders must provide complete pricing for both the base bid and additive alternate specifications, including all labor, materials, equipment, transportation, and associated costs. A non-mandatory site visit is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with a bidder question deadline of January 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Sealed bids are due January 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM, with a public bid opening on January 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The project must be substantially complete by July 1, 2026, with final billing due by the last week of August 2026.

The procurement does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must submit three current references from similar projects completed within the last five years, a list of proposed subcontractors with license information, and appropriate certifications regarding scrutinized companies, lobbying, debarment, and drug-free workplace programs. A bid bond guarantee of 5 percent of the bid price is required for bids of $100,000 or greater, and a performance bond equal to 100 percent of the contract price is required prior to contract execution. Liquidated damages of $250 per calendar day will be applied for failure to meet the completion deadline. The contractor must provide a one-year written warranty and guarantee upon substantial completion and furnish all required insurance certificates naming the Department as an additional insured. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a significant investment in infrastructure improvement for the Myakka State Forest. All work must comply with Florida Building Code, ADA requirements, and manufacturer specifications.