Prime Generation for Emergency Radio Sites

The Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN) Operator is seeking a contractor for Invitation to Bid (ITB #25004) to establish an N+1 redundant generator configuration at three emergency radio sites located in mountainous areas of Washington State: Maloney, McDonald, and Sobieski. The project requires furnishing all labor, services, equipment, and materials, specifically 36kW generators for Maloney and Sobieski, and a 20kW generator for McDonald, along with automatic transfer switches (ATSs). Each site requires trailer-mounted generators with specific technical features including external fuel connections, block heaters, remote start capabilities, low coolant and oil shutdown features, battery chargers, and precise fuel line installations. Bidders must demonstrate experience with two previous projects in high-elevation, forested areas and have completed a prime generation site project in a secluded mountain area within the past 8 years. The bid is due on September 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM (PT), with optional site visits scheduled for August 27 and 28, 2025. The project must be completed by mid-December 2025 to avoid potential weather-related site access challenges, and contractors will be evaluated based on their technical capability, safety awareness, and project management skills specific to mountain and wildland work environments.

The contract does not specify specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but bidders must meet Washington State responsibility criteria, including maintaining a current business registration, possessing a Washington State Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number, and having appropriate insurance and tax registrations. Contractors must also confirm they have no outstanding payments to state departments of Revenue, Labor and Industries, or Employment Security, and cannot be on any debarment lists. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the project involves complex infrastructure work with precise technical requirements. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, with a focus on comprehensive evaluation of bidder qualifications. The project is classified as a public work, requiring compliance with prevailing wage rates and state employment laws. The bid will remain binding for 60 days from the opening date, and Washington State Sales Tax will be applied separately to the services. The technical complexity of the project, as evidenced by the detailed one-line electrical diagrams, suggests a significant investment in emergency communications infrastructure reliability.