Ride Inspection Services (SF250125)

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a qualified vendor to provide comprehensive Ride Inspection Services for the 2025 New York State Fair, located at the NYS Fairgrounds in Onondaga County. The contract, identified as SF250125, requires a highly experienced independent inspector to conduct thorough safety assessments of rides and midway areas from August 1, 2025, to September 5, 2025. Specific deliverables include pre-Fair preparations such as conducting safety meetings with operators, issuing operator handbooks, performing complete midway inspections, and managing media interviews on safety matters. During the Fair, the contractor must perform daily ride and operator inspections, remain available during all ride operations, complete incident reports, conduct electrical source inspections, provide first aid updates, and lead weekly operator training sessions. Qualified candidates must demonstrate at least 20 years of independent ride and midway inspection experience, with proven track records at events attracting over one million attendees and featuring a minimum of 75 rides. The proposal submission deadline is April 22, 2025, at 3:00 PM, with proposals to be submitted directly to Courtney Hoyt at the NYS Fair Division.

The procurement opportunity does not include any specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged businesses, with zero percent goals listed for MWBE, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses, or Disadvantaged Owned Sub-Contracting. However, businesses certified under Article 15-A of the NYS Executive Law and NYS small businesses are encouraged to participate and may receive greater weight during evaluation. The contractor must obtain $1,000,000 in public liability insurance and comply with New York State Labor Laws. While no specific contract value is explicitly stated, the vendor will be required to provide a comprehensive inspection service that includes pre-Fair preparations, daily inspections, incident reporting, and a post-Fair final report to be submitted within thirty days of the Fair's completion. The state will provide credentials, a golf cart, and a trailer with hookups for the selected contractor. Payment will be processed electronically, with invoices submitted to a designated email address. The Department of Agriculture and Markets reserves the right to reject responses, request clarifications, and negotiate within the quote requirements to best serve the interests of New York State.