Playground Equipment & Installation

Lake County Schools Procurement Services has issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) #25-0616-B-TF969 for Playground Equipment & Installation, seeking a vendor to provide and install new playsets, shading structures, and safety surfaces for 26 elementary schools across the district. The procurement aims to standardize playground equipment for 2-5 and 5-12 year old age groups, with specific use zones and a focus on consistent parts retention and repair capabilities. Vendors must provide comprehensive services including site preparation, equipment installation, safety surface application, and refuse removal, while complying with Consumer Product Safety Commission and ASTM standards. The solicitation requires vendors to submit detailed cost proposals, including pricing for playground equipment, shade structures, surface installations, and repair services. Key bid dates include a question submission deadline of August 15, 2025, and proposal due date of August 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM EST, with all submissions required through www.myVendorLink.com. Evaluation criteria will include vendor qualifications, experience (with at least one public school system reference required), and local purchasing preferences. Bidders must complete multiple certification forms, including Debarment Certification, Sworn Statement on Public Entity Crimes, and Drug-Free Workplace Certification.

The contract will have an initial three-year term with two potential one-year renewal periods, with an estimated annual spend of $250,000 and potential three-year total of $750,000. While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, the bid does provide additional consideration for Lake County businesses based on local office location, number of local employees, and ad valorem tax contributions. Vendors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, automobile liability, and workers' compensation, with the School Board listed as an additional insured. The procurement allows for potential multiple awards and reserves the right for the district to adjust quantities or terminate the contract. Vendors must confirm their ability to prioritize goods and services during emergency or hurricane conditions. Notably, the awarded vendor is not required to perform repairs on playground equipment from manufacturers for which they are not an authorized installer, and the district anticipates some special requests that may require individual quotes. The contract includes specific requirements such as E-Verify compliance and adherence to Florida public records statutes.