Ski Trail Grooming Services - VASA Pathway-Grand Traverse Co

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a contractor to provide ski trail grooming services for the VASA Pathway in Pere Marquette State Forest, located in Grand Traverse County. The procurement involves grooming three cross-country ski loops (Headquarters, 10k, and 25k) totaling 16.7 miles, with services to be performed up to three times per week between December 1 and March 31 during favorable winter conditions. The successful contractor must provide all necessary personnel, equipment, and supervision, including a Snow Cat Groomer or equivalent (minimum 70 HP) with grooming attachments and a snowmobile with pull-behind capabilities. Evaluation criteria will focus on two key areas: Contractor Experience and Qualifications (50 points) and Service Capabilities (50 points), with a minimum score of 80 points required to advance to pricing evaluation. The Request for Proposal (RFP No. 180000003530) was issued on September 26, 2018, with proposals due by October 10, 2018, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and an anticipated contract start date of December 1, 2018. Bidders were required to submit documentation on staffing, available equipment, and any potential conflicting commitments.

The solicitation appears to include consideration for qualified disabled veteran (QDV) status during the evaluation process, potentially providing some preferential treatment for such vendors. The initial contract term is three years with options for two additional one-year renewals, with an average seasonal funding of approximately $12,000 and an estimated maximum of 36 complete grooms per season. Contractors must maintain Commercial General Liability Insurance with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 general aggregate, as well as Workers' Compensation Insurance as required by law. The DNR reserves the right to conduct site visits, oral presentations, interviews, and request additional price concessions during the evaluation process. Payment will be made via Electronic Funds Transfer within 45 days of receiving undisputed invoices, with potential liquidated damages of $25 per day for late or improper completion of work. The pricing schedule allows for different grooming service types, including pre-season grooming and complete groom services using either a Snow Cat Groomer or snowmobile with pull-behind implements.