RFP 27-01 Trash Disposal & Recycling Services

Holyoke Community College is requesting proposals for trash disposal and recycling services under RFP 27-01, with proposals due July 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. EST. This procurement is targeted to small businesses participating in Massachusetts' Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP), with subcontracting limited to no more than 20 percent of contract value unless performed by another SBPP-registered participant; if inadequate SBPP capacity exists or no SBPP vendors submit responsive bids, the college will evaluate non-SBPP businesses.

The scope includes delivery, assembly, installation, wiring, and maintenance of two sealed trash compactors (one 35 cubic yard and one 20 cubic yard unit), approximately five 8 cubic yard trash dumpsters, one 8 cubic yard lockable cardboard recycling dumpster, one 8 cubic yard lockable confidential paper recycling dumpster, and one 30 cubic yard open-top dumpster for construction debris. The contractor must provide staff training and backup equipment if original equipment fails. Dumpsters will be serviced on either regular or on-call basis as specified.

The contract period runs August 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029 (three years) with a renewable one-year option. All prices quoted must remain firm for the three-year initial term with no adjustments allowed; for the optional renewal year, the bidder guarantees rate increases will not exceed the lower of the National Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers (CPI-U) or a maximum percentage specified by the bidder. The contractor must carry comprehensive liability insurance of $1,000,000/$1,000,000, automobile liability insurance of $1,000,000/$1,000,000, and worker's compensation as required by Massachusetts law. Prevailing wage rates apply, ranging from approximately $33 to $127 per hour depending on the position. Questions are due June 17, 2026 with responses provided by June 24, 2026. No in-person bidders' conference will be held; all questions must be submitted via email. Site visits are not required but may be requested by contacting Richard Michaud in Facilities & Engineering.