RFP Cowlitz Area Sno-Park Snow Removal

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission's Winter Recreation Program is requesting proposals for winter snow removal services at three Sno-Parks—Johnson Creek, Orr Creek, and Wakepish—located on the south side of US Highway 12 west of White Pass near Randle and Packwood, with proposals due September 29, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. PST. A 20-point bid preference applies to Washington Small Businesses and Certified Veteran-Owned Businesses that meet statutory requirements.

The contract covers snow removal and winter maintenance services for designated parking areas and associated winter recreational facilities at all three locations. The successful bidder must submit all-inclusive hourly rates for equipment and demonstrate proof of equipment ownership or control, provide a backup plan for equipment failure, and submit at least three letters of reference with current dates. Subcontracting is not authorized unless expressly approved in writing by State Parks.

The contract term is five years, typically covering December 1 through March 31 annually, with a potential extension for an additional five-year term through mutual negotiation. Evaluation is based on a standardized scenario of 140 winter recreation average season hours. No guaranteed minimum purchase of services is stated, and funding remains subject to availability and state approval.

Bid evaluation awards 100 total points across equipment description and photos (35 points), hourly pricing (30 points), experience (25 points), and Washington Small Business or Certified Veteran-Owned Business certification (10 points). A minimum of 60 points is required for responsiveness. Questions are due August 28, 2026, with answers posted by September 2. A virtual prebid conference is scheduled August 26, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST; RSVP is required by August 24. Electronic submission is required via email to BidBox@parks.wa.gov. Unsuccessful bidders may request a debrief within three business days of the Apparent Successful Bidder announcement and may file a protest within five business days following their debrief conference.