Richloam Eelgrass Hatchery Facility

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking competitive bids for the construction of a new Eelgrass production facility at the Florida Bass Conservation Center in Sumter County. The project, known as the Richloam Eelgrass Hatchery Facility, involves the construction of the facility in accordance with the provided technical specifications and construction plans. A mandatory pre-bid conference was held on November 16, 2023, and sealed bids must be submitted by December 12, 2023. FWC has an estimated budget of $2,000,000 for this project and is committed to supporting diversity in its procurement program, encouraging participation by minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises. The anticipated award date is December 19, 2023.

The solicitation does not specify any set-asides or incumbent contractors. Potential bidders must register in the MyFloridaMarketPlace system and with Sunbiz prior to the bid opening. FWC has not provided ground-penetrating radar for the site, and bidders are responsible for coordinating temporary construction power with the local utility. Bidders must submit a completed Confidentiality Exemption Form to receive the technical specifications and construction plans. The contract includes requirements for the contractor to obtain all necessary permits, provide performance and payment bonds, maintain specified insurance coverage, and adhere to detailed construction schedules and liquidated damages terms.