New Sand Mound Septic System at Newtowne State Park

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is soliciting bids on the installation of a new BAT Sand Mound Septic System at Newtowne State Park in St. Mary's County, with bids due January 23, 2026, and a mandatory pre-bid conference on December 9, 2025. This procurement is designated for Certified Small Business Enterprises (SBEs) only — a decision-flipping eligibility restriction.

The scope includes abandoning two existing septic tanks and drainfields, excavating and installing a new BAT tank and pump chamber, approximately 400 linear feet of 3-inch PVC force main, a sand mound drainage system with electrical controls in a NEMA-rated outdoor enclosure, a secondary septic system for the block shop building with approximately 350 linear feet of 1.5-inch HDPE drain line, and proper abandonment of existing infrastructure. All work must be completed within 90 calendar days of Notice to Proceed during normal park hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday). The septic tank must be a pre-cast concrete BAT unit (Singular TNT Advanced Treatment Unit Model TNT 750 GPD or approved equal), with pumps manufactured by Zoeller or approved equivalent. All PVC pipe and fittings must be manufactured in the United States.

The bidder must hold a Maryland General Contractor license with a minimum of three years' experience in similar construction work and be registered with St. Mary's County. Licensed electrical and plumbing contractors approved by St. Mary's County must perform related trades. The contractor is responsible for all labor, equipment, materials, supplies, and insurance, and must provide a two-year warranty against faulty workmanship and maintain the treatment equipment with inspections according to manufacturer recommendations for five years from completion.

The project carries an MBE participation goal of 5% of total contract value; VSBE participation is not applicable. A minimum of 51% of all work must be performed by the prime contractor's own workforce, with no more than 49% subcontracted. A bid bond of 5% of the total bid amount and Performance and Payment Bonds in the full amount of the contract price (due within 10 days of award for contracts exceeding $100,000) are required. Contract retainage is 5%, with 15-day payment terms for SBR contracts. Liquidated damages of $150 per calendar day apply for late completion. Bid prices are firm for 120 days from opening. Questions are due December 19, 2025, by 4:00 p.m. Site inspection is recommended; contact Facility Manager Dawn Letts at 301-373-9614. The project is estimated within Project Classification B ($100,000–$500,000).