On call tree removal - lexington*

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for on-call tree removal services in Lexington County, specifically targeting emergency tree removal and maintenance operations. The solicitation covers three contract years and includes 45 line items categorized by tree size ranges from 6" to 60" and three removal types: cutting and leaving, cutting and removing, and cutting, removing, and stump grinding. Contractors must demonstrate capability to respond to emergency situations within 24 to 48 hours and complete work within 10 business days of notification. The bid opening is scheduled for May 24, 2022, at 2:30 PM, with a deadline for questions from offerors set for May 4, 2022. Contractors will be evaluated based on their ability to perform comprehensive tree removal services, including managing labor, equipment, materials, transportation, permits, disposal fees, traffic control, and worker safety compliance with MUTCD, NCHRP 350, and OSHA standards. Award notification is planned for June 27, 2022, with the contract expected to commence on July 7, 2022, and continue through July 6, 2025, with potential automatic annual renewals.

The solicitation does not indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must maintain comprehensive general liability insurance with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence, auto liability coverage of $1,000,000, and workers' compensation insurance. Non-refundable deductions ranging from $500 to $750 per offense will be assessed for non-compliance issues, including failure to begin work on schedule, work zone traffic control violations, and negligent property damage. While no incumbent contractors are mentioned, the contract is structured with unit pricing per tree based on size and removal type, allowing for flexible compensation based on actual work performed. The solicitation is exempt under South Carolina Code Section 11-35-710(1) and emphasizes strict adherence to specifications and safety protocols. Though specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the contract and the extensive line items suggest a potentially significant annual investment in tree removal and maintenance services.