North Himes Avenue at West Waters Avenue

Hillsborough County Engineering and Operations Department is requesting bids on intersection improvements at North Himes Avenue at West Waters Avenue under IFB 26-00271, with bids due August 21, 2026. A 5% Small Business Enterprise (SBE) subcontractor participation goal applies.

The scope encompasses replacing the existing box span wire signal with mast arms, roadway widening, milling and resurfacing, installation of miscellaneous drainage improvements, ADA sidewalk and pedestrian curb ramp improvements, and signing and pavement marking at the specified intersection. The project requires coordination with multiple utilities — Crown Castle Fiber (conduit adjustment), Peoples Gas, TECO (electric), and City of Tampa Wastewater — per signed utility relocation statements. Geotechnical investigation (Test Lab, Inc., September 2022) identified loose to dense sand with silt layers and recommends drilled shaft installation with temporary casing; contractors must anticipate dewatering equipment capable of handling artesian water conditions. A drainage report and Southwest Florida Water Management District permit define stormwater and environmental compliance requirements. Construction signage must conform to Hillsborough County 4x6 specifications.

The estimated contract value is $2,594,198.34. Bid bonds equal 5% of bid amount; performance and payment bonds are required at contract execution. Contractors must submit compliance certifications including Florida Trench Safety Act disclosure, drug-free workplace certification, affidavit denying business with foreign countries of concern, human trafficking affidavit, contractors affidavit for payment of debts and claims, and a Substitute W-9 Form. Insurance requirements and direct deposit authorization apply. Bidders pursuing SBE participation goals must submit the SBE-1 Form (Subcontractors Material Suppliers List) and Subcontractor Letters of Intent for each SBE firm with scope and estimated cost.