RFB080526 For License Operation of Self-Service Kayak Rental

The Commonwealth of Kentucky's Finance and Administration Cabinet, Division of Real Properties, in partnership with the Department of Parks, is requesting bids for a license to operate self-service kayak rental kiosks at four Kentucky State Parks (Kenlake in Hardin, Buckhorn Lake in Buckhorn, Kincaid Lake in Falmouth, and Green River Lake in Campbellsville), with bids due August 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT. Site visits are encouraged and should be scheduled by July 22, 2026.

The successful bidder will finance, design, construct, maintain, operate, and manage kayak rental kiosks and ancillary facilities at all four locations. No existing kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rental operations currently exist at these parks. The bidder assumes all operational and maintenance costs, including equipment, labor, supplies, utilities (except one 110-volt outlet provided by the Commonwealth), and any required permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or Tennessee Valley Authority. Solar power is acceptable as the sole power source for kiosk electronics provided functionality remains consistent. Cellular coverage varies by location and carrier.

Bidders must propose a percentage of gross receipts from kayak rental operations paid to the Commonwealth, with a minimum acceptable bid of 10 percent of gross receipts. A $500 bid deposit payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer must accompany each bid and will be deducted from the first month's rental payment. Monthly rental payments are due by the 10th of the following month, with a 1 percent daily late penalty beginning on the 11th day.

The license has an initial one-year term with the option to renew for five additional one-year periods at mutual consent. Public liability insurance with minimum coverage of $300,000 per person, $1,000,000 aggregate per accident, and $100,000 property damage is required, naming the Commonwealth as additional insured. The Commonwealth reserves the right to reject any or all bids and award based on the highest responsible, responsive bidder whose offer is most advantageous, considering past performance. Prior operational case studies are not required for qualification. Questions are directed to Jamie.Bryant@ky.gov, with official Q&A posted at https://vss.ky.gov/vssprod-ext/Advantage4.